By Adeola Badru

IBADAN – Prophet Moses Aladeolu, cleric and founder of Christ Apostolic Church, Ori Oke Aanu, Ojoo, Ibadan, has called on Christians in Nigeria and worldwide to exercise restraint and leave vengeance to God in the face of alleged persecution and mass killings of Christians in the country.

The appeal comes in the wake of a statement attributed to former U.S. President Donald Trump, claiming that Christians in Nigeria are being subjected to genocide. Prophet Aladeolu described the claim as “a sad reflection of the spiritual and moral decay of humanity,” warning that, if true, such situations represent an existential threat to Christianity and peace in Nigeria.

Speaking in his capacity as Patron of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ojoo Branch, Aladeolu stressed that vengeance belongs to God alone, citing several biblical passages.

“As Christians, we must remember that vengeance is not ours. The Bible clearly tells us in Romans 12:19, ‘Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’” he said.

He also referenced Deuteronomy 32:35, “Vengeance is mine, and recompense,” and Proverbs 20:22, “Do not say, ‘I will repay evil’; wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you,” underscoring that responses to persecution must be guided by faith and forgiveness rather than anger or retaliation.

“While reports of targeted attacks on Christians are painful, believers must hold firmly to the teachings of Christ, who instructed us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us,” Aladeolu said, citing Matthew 5:44. “We cannot fight spiritual battles with carnal weapons. Our weapon is prayer, our strength is unity, and our hope is in God.”

The cleric also called on President Bola Tinubu to engage the United States diplomatically to clarify or address Trump’s claims. “The President should prevail on Mr. Trump to substantiate his claims or desist from making statements that could inflame religious tensions in Nigeria. We need peace, not fear or suspicion among our people,” he said.

Prophet Aladeolu further urged the Nigerian government to ensure the protection of all citizens, irrespective of their faith, stressing that justice and equity are key to national stability.

“God will defend His people in His own time. Our duty is to remain steadfast, prayerful, and faithful. Let us leave vengeance to Him, for His justice never fails,” he added, citing Psalm 37:7-9: “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him. Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret, it leads only to evil.”