The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Champion Zonal Headquarters, located along Federal College of Education (FCE) Road in Kontagora, Niger State, was set ablaze by unidentified individuals in the early hours of Saturday.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that this tragic incident is a disturbing recurrence, as the same church was similarly attacked and burned down by unknown arsonists ten years ago.
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At that time, the attackers had issued a warning against the completion of the church building.
In response to the recent attack, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State chapter, condemned the act as “barbaric and uncalled for.”
He stressed the significance of religious freedom in Niger State and urged the government and security agencies to take swift action to prevent any further escalation of tension.
Rev. Yohanna told the Daily Post, “There is freedom of worship in Niger State. I am confident that when the government and security agencies act, it will go a long way in addressing any potential escalation.
“We hope the law will take its course. Such incidents must be curbed, and those responsible should be identified and brought to justice.”
Pastor Samson Ogbebor, an Assistant Pastor of the church, recounted the events leading up to the fire.
According to him, the incident occurred around 3:00 am on Saturday.
“I received a distress call that the church was on fire. On getting there, I met a church that has been in existence for the past 20 years now burnt down and properties looted by hoodlums,” Pastor Ogbebor said.
He also highlighted the long-standing challenges faced by the church.
He said, “About 10 years ago, hoodlums came and burnt it down completely, and with self-efforts, we were able to erect it again. They have made several unsuccessful attempts and have refused us permission to roof it properly, so we decided to use it like that for worship, but look at what they have done again.”
Despite the repeated attacks, members of the RCCG congregation remain resolute. Mr. John Aboje, an Elder in the church, expressed the community’s determination to continue their worship and maintain their faith.
“We will not be discouraged by the incident but will continue to be good Christians and good citizens of the country,” Aboje affirmed.
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He also called on Governor Umaru Bago, the Emir of Kontagora, Alh. Muhammadu Barau Mu’azu II, and relevant security agencies to take the incident seriously.
“The incident has been reported to the Division ‘A’ Police Station in Kontagora for investigation, and we urge the authorities to bring the perpetrators to book,” he added.
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