Peter Obi Clarifies Remarks On Churches And Worship

LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR) has issued a statement clarifying recent comments made by Labour Party leader Peter Obi regarding churches and worship in Nigeria.

The statement, issued by POMR Spokesman Ibrahim Umar on November 3, 2024, aims to dispel the notion that Obi called for the dismantling of churches in Nigeria.

The controversy arose following a media interview where Obi spoke about the importance of work and faith.

According to the POMR,  headlines given to the interview have misconstrued Obi’s message.

He emphasised that he holds immense respect for all religions and attempts to promote a more holistic approach to faith that integrates work and worship.

Obi’s statement, the POMR clarifies, was based on biblical principles, specifically the teachings of Apostle James, who emphasised that “faith without works is unhelpful.”

Obi’s call to transform “night vigil into night shift” was intended to promote a culture of productivity and service to God through work, citing examples of Jesus choosing working individuals as his disciples.

The statement also highlights Proverbs 14:23, which cautions against idleness and stresses the importance of hard work.

The POMR asserted that Obi intended to address what he sees as a disconnect between worship and work in Nigeria.

“There is no evidence in the scripture where Jesus Blessed an idle person,” the statement reads, adding that the Parable of the Three Servants emphasises the importance of productivity in receiving blessings.

The POMR criticised the media outlets that have misrepresented Obi’s comments, calling it a “mischievous end.”

They reiterate that Obi’s vision for Nigeria is rooted in a shift from consumption to production and that his comments were aimed at creating a more productive and fulfilling society.

The POMR called for the media to accurately portray Obi’s stance on faith and work, emphasising the importance of responsible reporting and avoiding the spread of misinformation.