The Directorate for Evangelism of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star (BCS), Archbishop David Irefin, on Friday, described Nigerians as “disobedient children of God,” blaming ethnic and religious bigotry, hatred, discrimination and other vices for the country’s challenges.

The bishop called on Nigerians to embrace love, humility and truthfulness as a path towards national renewal.

Irefin, in an exclusive chat with The Guardian, commended the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star under the spiritual leadership of His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu.

He said religious leaders, including Catholic bishops, were often quick to blame President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and members of his administration for the country’s problems, while failing to acknowledge the collective responsibility of Nigerians.

Irefin said: “The Catholic Bishops and other religious leaders are quick to blame the president and members of his team for all the woes in Nigeria. What they have failed to understand is the fact that all Nigerians are responsible for the happenings in the country.

“Nigerians have refused to love one another and rather go after ethnic and religious bigotry. Nigerians are disobedient children of God. All are involved in discrimination, hatred, division, stealing, wickedness fueled by religion and tribalism.

“In the present situation, what do you want God to do for you? Are you not aware that disobedient children are worthy of suffering and at the end condemned by God?

“When you discriminate and hate others on the basis of religion and tribe, do you expect God to clap for you? You hate others without knowing that you hate God? If Nigerians want a good day, they must start to love one another, humble themselves and be truthful, or else be prepared to face worse days.

“We are all children of God. We must stop tribal and religious bigotry if we expect God to favor us. We are a disgrace to God. Remember, God created Man and not tribe and religion. Peace of God abides with you all.”