Methodist prelate hails Jonathan for signing anti-gay bill

The Prelate of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, Revd. Samuel Uche, on Friday commended President Goodluck Jonathan for signing the anti-gay bill into law.

The Prelate said in a statement in Aba, Abia State, on Friday that gay marriage, homosexuality or lesbianism were ungodly, unethical, iniquitous and un-African.

He also commended the courage and forthrightness of the National Assembly in passing the bill.

Uche expressed happiness with the courage of the leaders in ignoring the outcry against the nation by foreign interests, who wanted Nigeria to kill the bill.

The Prelate said, “As a sovereign nation, we have come of age and should not tie Nigeria to the apron strings of any nation, no matter how powerful that nation may claim to be.

“This development is a plus to our government and should be followed by other steps that will appeal to Nigerians.

“What is important now is for all Nigerians irrespective of state, local government, ethnic, tribal or political leaning to work together for a viable and virile nation.”

According to the prelate, such a nation should be one where no one will be marginalised or oppressed.

Uche urged Nigerians to pray more and to hope for a brighter future.

He also condemned the sustained attacks on innocent citizens by the Boko Haram sect as well as attacks on communities in Plateau by unknown gunmen.

Uche added, “These, no doubt, are difficult and challenging times for us in this country and something urgent must be done to abate this satanic and dangerous trend.

“These attacks negate the universal principle of civility expected in a society where the protection of the citizens is upheld by those saddled with such responsibilities.”