The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Taraba State, Very Rev. Dr. Fr. Williams Awoshiri, has cautioned Christian leaders against turning the pulpit into a platform for division, hate, or political insults, urging them to uphold its sanctity as a place for peace, moral guidance, and responsible engagement with authority.
Awoshiri gave the warning on Saturday in his New Year message to Christians and residents of the state, describing the pulpit as a sacred responsibility that must be handled with care and spiritual maturity.
“The pulpit is a sacred trust, a holy platform entrusted to us to proclaim the Word of God in truth, love, wisdom, and power,” he said.
He stressed that while the Church has a clear prophetic mandate, such responsibility must be exercised with restraint and wisdom to avoid worsening existing social and political tensions.
“The pulpit must never become a platform for personal attacks, hate speech, incitement, or reckless utterances that deepen divisions in our society.
“Our calling is to build faith, promote godly values, encourage peace, and nurture moral discipline,” the CAN chairman warned.
Awoshiri noted that speaking truth to power remains a core duty of the Church but insisted that it must be done constructively and prayerfully.
According to him, “While the Church has a prophetic role in speaking truth to power, such engagement must be constructive, prayerful and guided by wisdom and patriotism.”
On security, the CAN chairman commended the Taraba State Government under Governor Agbu Kefas and security agencies for their efforts made so far to address insecurity across the state, acknowledging the sacrifices of personnel who risk their lives daily to protect citizens.
“We commend the government and our security agencies for their sacrifices,” he said, “but peace requires sustained effort, stronger intelligence gathering, and active community cooperation.”
Awoshiri, however, called for intensified action to protect vulnerable communities, stressing that peace and security remain the foundation for development, social harmony, and economic progress.
He also appealed to residents of the state, irrespective of faith or ethnic background, to recommit themselves to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and responsible citizenship in the new year.
He prayed for divine wisdom for leaders, peace in homes, and enduring stability for Taraba State and the country, wishing Nigerians a peaceful and prosperous New Year.
Earlier, Governor Agbu Kefas called for prayers for the state and pledged to rebuild a befitting CAN centre, describing the current building as outdated and not conducive for worship.
