- Wife of President Bola Tinubu, Oluremi, denies organising a national prayer event, addressing false reports about a prayer gathering for Nigeria's challenges
- The First Lady emphasises that prayer is a voluntary act and encourages Nigerians to pray for the country's prosperity and peace
- Recall that reports went viral that Remi Tinubu and NSA Nuhu Ribadu wanted to lead national prayers
The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, has issued a statement denying reports that she is organising a national prayer event aimed at seeking divine intervention for the country's socio-economic and security challenges.
A recent media report had suggested that Mrs. Tinubu, along with the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, would lead a seven-day prayer event titled Seeking the Intervention of God in Nigeria’s Affairs.
The report claimed that Segun Afolorunikan, the Director-General of the National Prayer Forum, had made the announcement during a press briefing in Abuja last Sunday.
According to the briefing, the event would involve both Christian and Muslim religious leaders, who would come together in a week of intense prayer to address the nation’s difficulties.
In the statement issued on Saturday, November 9, Oluremi Tinubu's spokesman, Busola Kukoyi, clarified that the news was false and misleading.
"This is to clarify and inform the general public that the First Lady of Nigeria, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, is not organizing a national prayer," the statement read.
While the First Lady is known for her strong advocacy of prayer, particularly for the well-being of the nation, Kukoyi emphasised that prayer is a personal and voluntary act.
"The First Lady believes that prayer is an act that must be done willingly, conscientiously, and sincerely," the statement continued.
Mrs. Tinubu also stated that while she supports praying for Nigeria, she believes it is the responsibility of every Nigerian citizen regardless of their religious beliefs, political views, or ethnic background to engage in prayers for the country's prosperity and peace.
The statement further urged the public to verify any news or events involving the First Lady through official channels.
"Members of the public are advised to verify the authenticity of any news or event involving the First Lady of Nigeria or her Office through official channels. Kindly be advised accordingly," Kukoyi concluded.
The initial report had suggested that the prayer event would take place at the National Ecumenical Centre, with prayer warriors from various Christian denominations coming together to focus their efforts on the country’s socio-economic and security challenges.
However, the First Lady’s office has now made it clear that she has no involvement in the organisation of this event.
This clarification comes as Nigerians continue to face numerous challenges, including economic instability, security concerns, and political tensions, with many turning to religious gatherings and prayers for solutions.
However, as emphasised in the statement, such actions must be voluntary and genuine.
“Is hunger a new thing?” See list of clerics who have asked Nigerians not to protest and why
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that Sheik Sani Yahaya Jingir pointed out that hunger is not a new phenomenon and referenced historical instances where people endured severe hunger.
Other clerics like Dr Samuel Uche encouraged continuous prayer, suggesting that divine intervention is the best solution to the country's problems.
