The attention of the Kogi State Government has been drawn to a publication that an Official of Government ordered the demolition of a church in Lokoja known as Mount of Olive and pastored by one Pastor Fred David.
We want to make it abundantly clear that the Kogi State Government has high regards for all religions as well as the Fundamental Right of the citizens to practice any religion of their choice. The Governor has been attending churches and donating resources towards the spread of Christianity even as a Moslem and has also helped in the spread of Islam and other religions and cultures.
There was a Police Report to the effect that some hired assassins found their way into the home of the Director General, Government House Administration, Alh. Shaibu Oricha. The DG escaped death narrowly on the issue.
After thorough investigations, it was made clear that the assassins gained entrance into Mr Oricha’s premises using a ladder strategically placed in the Church premises. To this end, Police Authorities asked the Pastor to produce the Carpenters to explain to them their role in the success of the assassins gaining access to Mr. Oricha’s property. But the Pastor refused to produce the carpenters.
Also, there was an investigation into why Town Planning would approve the construction of a building that close to another one. Findings eventually revealed that the Pastor had no Town Planning Approval for the church building. Therefore, the construction was done illegally.
It should be placed on record that the assassins burgled the DG Government House Administration’s House when they were unable to meet him at home to carry out their nefarious mandate.
This clarification is necessary in order to control the spread of fake news and inciting comments against the government.
Investigations by security agencies are on and Government wouldn’t have stopped the Town Planning Office from doing its job of ensuring sanity in the construction of buildings in the State.
We urge all to maintain peace as the investigations continue to unravel the mystery behind the disagreement.
Kogi State Government will always protect all citizens regardless of status, faith or political affiliations.
– Fanwo Kingsley
Director General, Media and Publicity to Kogi State Governor
