Christianity is Under Threat, Says Primate Most Rev. Nicholas Okoh

THE Primate, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the Most Rev. Nicholas Okoh has cautioned African nations, saying that with the level of insecurity, poverty, doctrine of prosperity among other factors, it is obvious that the Christian faith is seriously under threat in the continent.

The primate who was speaking at the 2012 Divine Common Wealth Conference (DIVCCON) with the theme: 'Contending For The Faith' in Abuja, said there is need by all Christians to imbibe common Christian faith in line with the Bible

His words: "The Christian faith is seriously under attack in Nigeria from without and within. From without, we are concerned about violent expressions of Islam represented by Boko Haram. "In some parts of the North, the Christian faith is an endangered specie. Boko Haram is not just against Christians, but has stated emphatically that it wants the Christian faith rooted out of the North.

"This is the idea behind the bombings, shootings, slaughtering and maiming it has been executing. As a result of the violence, many Christians have been intimidated and had relocated to safer places. Our dioceses in Maiduguri, Damaturu, Kano, Bauchi, Yola, Zaria, Jos, etc are now drastically depopulated.

"The next threat is African Traditional Religion, and its various expressions in cults. This is a threat in two ways: outright violent confrontations as in the examples of Afikpo Diocese, Diocese on the Coast, Western Izon, etc. The other threat is more subtle, presenting paganism as culture and tradition, with many ignorant Christians swallowing it hook, line and sinker; thus promoting a syncretistic faith. Source