Toba Owojaiye Reporting
The Deputy President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Archbishop JohnPraise Daniel, has called upon Nigerians and the political elite to unite in support of President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to improve Nigeria. During a recent interaction with reporters, he also urged presidential candidates Peter Obi of the Labour Party and Atiku Abubakar of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to back President Tinubu.
Archbishop JohnPraise emphasized that his views were personal and did not necessarily reflect the stance of the PFN. He expressed optimism that the Supreme Court would uphold the results of the Presidential Election and encouraged the opposition to cease litigation and support Tinubu’s leadership.
He cited historical examples like Abraham Lincoln’s multiple attempts before becoming U.S. president to highlight that those who did not succeed this time could try again in the future. Archbishop JohnPraise disputed claims of massive election rigging, pointing to the split in the opposition (PDP, LP and NNPP) and the impact of Peter Obi’s candidacy on PDP’s votes.
He believed that President Tinubu, whose presidential aspirations date back about 24 years, was the chosen leader to reshape Nigeria’s trajectory. He recounted a meeting with Tinubu and other bishops, where he felt that God had selected Tinubu for this purpose.
Regarding President Tinubu’s speech at the United Nations, Archbishop JohnPraise praised it for making Nigerians proud and instilling confidence in his leadership. He expected Tinubu’s actions to yield positive results, including economic improvements and lower fuel prices.
Archbishop JohnPraise clarified that he was not a politician but a supporter of leadership. He cited instances of supporting past presidents, regardless of their political affiliation, and encouraged others to do the same, emphasizing that leaders are appointed by God.
He addressed concerns about succession in Pentecostal churches, explaining that decisions were guided by the Holy Spirit. He cited examples like Pastor Adeboye taking over the RCCG and recommended that Pentecostal churches develop succession plans for smooth transitions.
In conclusion, Archbishop JohnPraise Daniel expressed his belief in President Tinubu’s potential to transform Nigeria and encouraged unity and support for the nation’s progress, emphasizing the importance of trusting in divine guidance in both politics and church leadership.