Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, has been appointed as the patron of the Ecumenical Synod of Bishops, Archbishops, and Senior Clergy Inc. (ESBAASC).
This appointment was announced during the group’s international conference, which took place from August 22 to 25 at Emmanuel Park, RCCG Redemption Camp, according to Church Times.
The conference, themed “Religious Tolerance in Nigeria and Across the Nations of the World,” focused on defining religious tolerance, its challenges, and strategies for achieving it. ESBAASC is a collective of leaders from various Christian denominations aimed at fostering religious tolerance and unity.
Archbishop Prof. Kehinde Olubunmi, the International Prelate and Chief Host, nominated Pastor Adeboye as Patron and Archbishop Prof. Mary Ajisafe as Matron. Ajisafe is the Overseer of Peace of God Ministry in Lagos. These appointments were met with a standing ovation.
Olubunmi emphasized ESBAASC’s ongoing efforts with global organizations to promote religious tolerance in Nigeria, with the hope that this culture will extend to other parts of Africa. Represented by RCCG National Overseer Emeritus, Pastor Joseph Obayemi, Adeboye expressed concern over Nigeria’s current state compared to the past, recalling a time of peaceful coexistence among different religious groups.
Adeboye described religious tolerance as essential for mutual understanding, peaceful coexistence, and unity among diverse cultures. He noted that Nigeria’s historical religious diversity was once a source of commendation but now faces challenges due to politically motivated sectarian violence. He urged participants to advocate for tolerance, emphasizing that true believers should prioritize love and life preservation over violence.
Imam Abdul-Azeez Onike, a Muslim cleric and researcher, stressed the importance of tolerance, warning against the consequences of religious conflict. He cited historical events like the Holocaust and the 9/11 attacks as examples of the devastation caused by intolerance.
Apostle A.B. Otaru, Chairman of Ogun State PFN/CPFN, discussed how understanding and love for God are crucial for religious tolerance. He expressed hope that genuine love for God would lead to peace and unity.
Bishop Dr. Samuel Akinola from Gambia shared a success story of how Christians and Muslims united to overthrow an unpopular government in Gambia, urging Nigeria to embrace genuine religious tolerance.
Archbishop Prof. Williams Ozazie, the International Secretary and Director of Administration of ESBAASC, emphasized that God is a God of peace, not violence. He referenced the Biblical story of Elijah to illustrate that God desires reconciliation.
The conference also featured a vibrant Chaplaincy ceremony with rigorous performances and decorations. Bishop Dr. David K. Agboola, Chaplain General and Commandant Gen. of ESBAASC, commended the Nigerian military and police for their efforts against sectarian violence.
In closing, Olubunmi thanked attendees and announced that a communiqué would be issued in due course.
