Church Of Christ In Nigeria Hails Jonathan Over Anti-Gay Law

Posted by African Examiner Latest Headlines, News Friday, January 24th, 2014

Agabus Pwanagba, Jos

The President of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), Rev. Dachollom Datiri has applauded President Goodluck Jonathan for appending his signature to the anti-gay bill, saying if put on referendum, the public would have overwhelmingly supported his stand.

Rev. Datiri stated this at the headquarters of the Church in Jos on Thursday, while briefing the newsmen.

He said, “The bill that was signed by the president of the federal republic of Nigeria on gay marriage is a laudable one, one of his best bill so far, as a church we believed the bill is in the best interest of Nigerian citizens.

“Nigeria is a secular nation, and it’s good if we allow our holy scriptures to guide us as far as the issue of gay is concerned. I belief strongly none of Nigeria’s religions support gay marriage, they all frown at gay practices, our culture also condemn it.

“The Holy Bible calls it ‘shameful’ for human creature of same sex to make love with one another or get married, it is condemnable, disdainful, an abomination. So the bill against gay marriage should be a welcome development to all Nigerians.

“The human rights argument for gay marriage does not make sense to me, if our religion and culture forbid something, does anyone else has the right to practice it. I appreciate the existence of human rights, but I also appreciate that Nigeria is not a lawless nation, if every citizen is allow to exercise his or her rights, then the society will not be peaceful.”

On criticisms by the western world, Rev. Datiri added, “the western world should respect the sovereignty of Nigeria, and if they want to severe relationship with Nigeria for protecting its culture, so be it, it’s their choice.

“But as a church, we want to encourage President Jonathan that we are solidly behind him on this issue. I advised Mr President not to be discouraged with all the criticism by some members of the international community, he should be convinced by what he stands for and be confident that he has our support”.