For Nigeria to attain the dream of its founding fathers, those in positions of authority must re-dedicate themselves to nation-building and shun all forms of corrupt practices.
Senior Pastor of the Victory Life Bible Church, Apostle Lawrence Achudume, made the call in his homily entitled ‘Rebel In Cassock’ at a programme tagged ‘Night of Praise’.
It was held in honour of the late Prelate Emeritus of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Dr. Sunday Mbang, at the Shelter Afrique Estate, Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State.
Achudume said the late Prelate was very passionate about seeing his country develop.
He noted that Mbang used his radical approach to Christianity to drive home the need for the liberation of the citizens from hardship.
“Mbang used his radical approach to Christianity to advocate for freedom from the oppressed and social development for the citizens,” the cleric said.
Achudume said the country needed more of the likes of Mbang to champion the causes of the masses.
The VLBC Senior Pastor said he was attracted by Mbang’s radical nature in the 80s.
He added that they became very close as they maintained a father-son relationship, recalling how he would always tap from Mbang’s wealth of experience and wisdom each time he visited him from Abeokuta.
Achudume described Mbang as a rebel in the cassock who was very contented, humble and lived a very simple life right till he breathed his last.
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“Mbang was a rebel in the cassock and didn’t seek for fame or wealth but for freedom and liberation of humanity,” he said.
Achudume added that Mbang was a dogged fighter who had confronted leaders like General Ibrahim Babangida and late General Sanni Abacha and ensured that General Abdulsalami Abubakar conducted elections to usher in democratic government within a year.
He added that his blunt stance on national issues and forthrightness brought him into contact with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, as they both became very good friends.
Achudume praised the children of the deceased Eminent clergyman, led by Sir Ini Mbang, for organising a series of programmes in honour of their father and urged them to continue to uphold his sterling legacies.
Also at the event, which was held on Monday, were Deputy Governor of Akwa-Ibom State Dr. Akon Eyakenyi, Archbishop Idem Okon, Archbishop Sunday Uko, His Eminence Udo Ekpeyong, Bishop Arabia Umanah, Bishop Imoh Otong, among others.