By: Felix Ikpotor
A clergyman, Most Rev. Edmund Akanya , Archbishop, Kaduna Province ( Anglican communion) has warned Christians in the South-South and South-East to be wary of Muslim incursion into their territory.
Akanya gave the warning while delivering a sermon as a guest preacher at the 2nd Session of the 22nd Synod of the Diocese of Niger Delta, Anglican Communion held at St. Augustine’s Church, Abonnema, Rivers State.
The clergyman revealed that the intention of the Muslims is not necessarily for the mutual benefit of the people but to target their children who could be possible converts to pave the way for rapid islamization of the areas.
On how the Muslims would achieve this, Akanya said they would invade the area harmlessly, cohabit with the people and bear children with them.
Akanya who is also the Bishop of Kebbi Diocese alleged that these Muslims after bearing children and marrying people of the area would allow the children and their mothers to continue with their Christian worship but when the time shall come for the execution of the alleged Muslim agenda, they would all be converted.
He also noted that most of the areas being destroyed by Boko Haram in the northern parts of the country are predominantly Christian communities.
Akanya particularly frowned at politicians from the region who he said are betraying the interest of the area through their alliance with leaders from the northern parts of the country in their quest for power, stressing that it would be difficult for northerners to relinquish power back to the south.
He however, advised people of the region to be united and charged the church in particular to embark on rapid evangelism to win unrepentant souls for Christ as a way o fighting the incursion.
On his part, Bishop of Niger Delta Diocese, Rt. Rev. Ralph Ebirien said the task of rebuilding the church and society is a collective one, calling for unity among members.
On the state of the nation, the clergyman decried the insecurity in Rivers State and the country especially the activities of Fulani herdsmen and the economic situation in the country, urging the government to take necessary and urgent steps to remedy the situation.
