Monarch links nation’s vices to attitude of religious adherents

The prevailing insecurity in the country and in Kogi State has been linked to the lukewarm attitude of Christians and Muslims who have abandoned the ways of God.

The Maigarin of Lokoja, Alhaji Muhammadu Kabir Maikarfi III, who spoke in his palace yesterday when the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) paid him a Christmas and New Year homage, said kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery and other vices multiplied because Nigerians have been swimming in their sins.

The monarch challenged Christians and Muslims to live up to the dictates of their religion and the holy books.He said as a traditional institution, they have been doing their best to curb criminalities of all forms using the traditional chiefs at the grassroots.

“God is not happy with us because of our sins, we need to come closer to him. The fear of God should be uppermost in our minds.“If we are very close to God and really have Him at heart, things will work for the good of everyone.”

He said that it was not about going to church or going to mosque, which are outward display but the true worship of God in spirit and in truth.“We should not be tired of praying to God because this country needs prayers so that God should touch the heart of our leaders to be able to do what is required. In the Bible, Solomon prayed for wisdom and God gave it to him. Our leaders also need wisdom.”

The CAN Chairman, Bishop John Ibenu, thanked the royal father for his role in curbing cultism, kidnapping and other vices. He urged him to use the farmers to help curb kidnappings, especially on their farms.