The Prelate-Elect of the Methodist Church of Nigeria Most Rev. Oliver Ali Aba has described Vice President Yemi Osinbajo as one whom Christians in the country can run to in times of trouble.
He made the comment when Osinbajo received a delegation from the Methodist Church of Nigeria led by the Prelate-Elect at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday.
A statement by Laolu Akande, media aide to Osinbajo, quoted the cleric, who is from Benue State, as saying the VP is the “father of Christians in Nigeria” being the highest-ranking Christian officeholder.
He told the VP that “you are the father of Christians in Nigeria, you are the only one we can run to in times of need.
“There is so much that can be learnt from you, your humility, doggedness in governance, and commitment to the service of the people. I have learnt all of these attributes and I shall replicate the same in leading the Methodist Church. I believe I can take the Methodist Church to higher grounds replicating your virtues.”
The Most Revd. Aba, whose delegation came to brief the Vice President on the forthcoming investiture of the Prelate-Elect next month in Lagos, also praised the President Muhammadu Buhari government for several feats recorded by the administration.
He said the current Nigerian leadership has delivered the dividends of democracy to the nation.
On his part, Osinbajo called on leaders to remain open while uniting the people regardless of their background, or religious or political differences.
The former Lagos Justice Commissioner and Attorney-General noted that “as believers, we have to be open and reach out to everyone. Christ died for all which is why it is very important that you reach out to everyone for the sake of unity.
“Part of the duties of Christian leadership is how to ensure that we are able to display Christ’s love so that many people can see and emulate.”
The VP recalled comments made by the Prelate-elect in an interview (about fighting corruption in and outside the Church), and added that a “major weakness in our country is lack of integrity. There are no perfect plans, no perfect budgets because all are eroded by corruption”.
Aside from this, Osinbajo spoke about current practices in some churches, saying that “Sometimes, even inside the church, leaders emphasize more of giving without talking about integrity”.
The preacher was accompanied by the immediate past Governor of Bauchi State Barr. Mohammed Abubakar who is part of the planning of the investiture also facilitated the visit of the delegation to the Vice President.
