- Cites hate speech, insult on State
The Akwa Ibom State Government has defended its decision to deny Pastor Yinka Yusuf access to the Ibom Hall Grounds for a proposed crusade, stating the move was prompted by “vile and inflammatory” remarks against the people of the State rather than security concerns.
The Commissioner for Information, Dr. Aniekan Umanah, clarified that the decision was taken by the Akwa Ibom Property and Investment Company Limited.
The action followed the circulation of a video in which Pastor Yusuf allegedly stereotyped and insulted Akwa Ibom people, comments the government said amounted to hate speech and inflamed public sentiment.
The statement stressed that the state remains peaceful and disputed claims that security considerations influenced the denial.
It argued that the remarks attributed to Pastor Yusuf were “incompatible with the values of respect, tolerance, and coexistence that underpin both public order and religious practice in the state.”
Officials further maintained that the cleric failed to follow established procedures for hosting large religious gatherings.
These include engaging with security agencies and consulting with recognized bodies such as the Christian Association of Nigeria and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria in Akwa Ibom.
The government also questioned the claim that the crusade would attract over 50,000 international participants, challenging the organizers to provide verifiable evidence.
Contrasting the episode with ongoing religious events, the statement noted that prominent evangelists continue to hold crusades in the state without incident.
It cited the current visit of Pastor W.F. Kumuyi of the Deeper Life Christian Ministry as an example of “orderly engagement and mutual respect between religious leaders and the state.”
The government highlighted Akwa Ibom’s historical role in Christian evangelism and national leadership, asserting that the state has long been associated with tolerance and enlightenment.
The statement disclosed that the video containing the alleged remarks has been forwarded to the State Attorney General for review.
“Pastor Yusuf owes the government and people of Akwa Ibom an unreserved apology,” the statement added, warning that failure to do so could result in legal action.
Reaffirming its position, the government insisted that public facilities cannot be made available for events perceived to promote “insult, provocation, or division.”
It concluded by stating that Akwa Ibom remains open and welcoming while remaining committed to safeguarding the dignity of its people.