FG should dialogue with Boko Haram — PFN

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has backed  plans by the Federal Government to dialogue with Boko Haram sect, provided the insurgents are truly ready to surrender and embrace peace.

The body urged the government during negotiation with the insurgents to continue its military operations in the North East.

The National President of PFN, Rev Felix Omobhude, spoke to journalists shortly after a two-day programme organised by PFN at Victory International Church, Rehoboth Cathedral‎, Ibadan, Oyo State, yesterday.

He said Boko Haram has burnt down about 850 churches in the North East since the crisis started.

The PFN president said: “I think it is right for the Federal Government to dialogue with Boko Haram only if they are truly ready to embrace peace. We condemn the continued bombings in places of worship by Boko Haram. Nobody can be justified for killing innocent people in churches or mosques. We condemn it in all ramifications. Boko Haram militants are enemies‎ of Nigeria and we must all come together to treat them as such.”

Omobhude, who saluted the ‎courage of Nigerian military in combating the sect, also urged the Federal Government to provide necessary facilities for the agency to perform efficiently.

“I appeal to Nigerians to exercise patience with President Muhammadu Buhari on the issue of Boko Haram. I know they want a quick intervention to resolve the insurgency. I believe they are working and with the cooperation of all and sundry, we will see a change,” he said.

Omobhude described as wicked and barbaric the continuous onslaught in churches and mosques by the Boko Haram sect, stating that hell fire would be the abode of the perpetrators.

He stated that places of worship are sacred and peaceful places where worshippers have fellowship with their Creator, pointing out that attacks on such places must discontinue in the interest of Nigerians.

He warned the masterminds to desist from such acts and repent to avoid the wrath of God. Omobude advised President Muhammadu Buhari not to relent in his efforts in wiping out the insurgents so that the lives of Nigerians and foreigners will be secured.

The PFN urged Nigerians to pray to God to help arrest the insecurity problem in the country. He also consoled with the leadership of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and all those affected by the series of bombings by the Boko Haram sects.