Boko Haram, Religious Extremism Threaten Nigeria’s Unity, Cleric Warns At Book Launch In Calabar

CALABAR, CROSS RIVER – The Venerable Superior Evangelist Ogbonnaya Ukpabi, JP, on Saturday warned against the dangers of religious extremism and violent ideology in Nigeria as he unveiled a book examining the activities of Boko Haram alongside another publication focused on spiritual awakening and Christian accountability.

Ukpabi spoke during the celebration of his 35 years in Gospel ministry and 25 years of service in Calabar held at the auditorium of Christ Holy Church International in Calabar, Cross River State.

The cleric unveiled two books titled “Islamic Fundamentalism: A Case Study of Boko Haram in Northeastern Nigeria” and “The Day of the Lord,” describing them as contributions to national peace-building and spiritual renewal.

Speaking at the event attended by church leaders, academics, traditional rulers and members of the Christian community, Ukpabi said religious institutions must rise to confront extremism, ignorance and moral decline in society.

According to him, the Boko Haram-focused publication examines the roots of religious extremism and the role faith-based organisations can play in promoting peace, dialogue and national unity.

“Today, I stand before you with a heart full of gratitude as I mark 35 years in the ministry of the Gospel and 25 years of service here in Calabar,” Ukpabi said.

He added, “The first book contributes to national discourse on religious extremism and examines the role of faith-based institutions in promoting peace, dialogue and unity in Nigeria.”

Ukpabi stressed that his years in ministry had reinforced the need for religious leaders to guide society toward peace and moral responsibility rather than division and violence.

He noted that his ministerial journey was sustained not by personal strength but by “God’s grace, mercy and faithfulness.”

On the second publication, “The Day of the Lord,” the cleric described the book as a warning to humanity about the need for righteousness and accountability before God.

“The second book is a call to spiritual awakening and a reminder that humanity must live with righteousness and accountability before God,” he stated.

Ukpabi further urged churches and religious organisations to continue promoting unity, knowledge and peaceful coexistence amid growing insecurity and social challenges across the country.

Truth Live News learned that the event also highlighted Ukpabi’s influence within Christian leadership circles in Calabar and beyond, with several speakers commending his contributions to ministry, theology and scholarship.

Scholarly reviews of the books were presented by Dr. Akunjom Nsan, Mrs. Esther Onyinyechi Udensi and Apostle Godwin Okunjom, who described the publications as timely interventions addressing both spiritual and national concerns.

Guests at the gathering praised the cleric for combining ministry with intellectual engagement on issues affecting Nigeria’s peace and stability.

Ukpabi also acknowledged the support of the Church, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Organisation of African Instituted Churches, colleagues in ministry, family members and residents of Calabar throughout his decades of service.

The celebration ended with prayers for peace, national unity and continued religious harmony in Nigeria.