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The Champion Zonal Headquarters of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, has been torched by unknown arsonists in Niger State.
The church is located along Federal College of Education Road in Kontagora.
A similar attack was carried out on the church 10 years ago when some unidentified persons also warned against completion of the church.
Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, the Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Niger State chapter, condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric and uncalled for.
“There is freedom of worship in Niger State, I am sure by the time the government and security agencies take action, it will go a long way to address any form of tension that may want to escalate beyond control,” the state chairman said.
“We are hoping that the law will take its course. To be frank, issues like this must be tamed and people who have done this should be fished out and made to face the law,” he added.
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.
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
