From Damola Adeloye, Ibadan
Business mogul and chieftain of New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, Olufemi Oguntoyinbo has called on Christians to use this year’s Lenten period to pray for the country, political leaders and demonstrate religious tolerance.
Oguntoyinbo, in a message to Christians to mark the beginning of this year’s Lenten period, called on them to use the holy 40 days to pray for Nigeria, especially political leaders, so that God would direct them alright.
He also charged Christians to maintain religious tolerance and relate peacefully with people of other faiths for the country to have peace and tranquility.
He said this year is special because Muslims and Christians are having their fasting period almost the same time, adding that the uniqueness should be used to pray for Nigeria as there is nothing God cannot do.
“I rejoice with our Christian brothers and sisters as they begin the Lenten period.
“I urge them to use this period of fasting, prayer, penance and self-denial to grow closer to God and reflect on the significance of Jesus sacrifice.
“One of the teachings of Jesus Christ is that we should love our neighbours as ourselves. We must uphold this and ensure religious tolerance. When we love our neighbours as ourselves, there will be peace and progress.
“The fact that this year, both Muslims and Christians are having their fasting periods almost the same time is a sign that God wants us to use it to seek what we want.
“Therefore we should pray for peace in our lands. We should pray for our political leaders and I am sure God would restore our nation’s greatness,” he said.
