Cleric who suffered ENDSARS losses urges Nigerians on forgiveness, end to  rights violations 

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Archbishop Johnson Ikpeme 

By Akpan David, Calabar 

A US-based Nigerian clergyman, Archbishop Johnson Ikpeme has called on Nigerian leaders, including the citizenry to harp on the virtue of forgiveness in order to move the country forward.

The cleric had suffered huge losses during the endSARS protest when his Ahkira lodge on Mary Slessor Road Calabar was wantonly vandalized, losing estimated N80 million in the process.

In a telephone interview with our correspondent, the cleric describes forgiveness as a great virtue, emphasizing that when the led and their leaders learn to forgive themselves attendant peace will permeate all ethnic groups and tribes. 

Recalling the devastating ENDSARS riot which took place in major cities of Nigeria four years ago aimed at protesting incessant Police brutality against the people but which was hijacked by hoodlums,  Archbishop Ikpeme thanked God that he was not physically present when they vandalized his hotel.

Ikpeme called for justice for the victims of the riot and brutality, urging government to fish out perpetrators.

He further called on the authorities as well as criminal elements in parts of Africa,  especially Nigeria to stop acts of intimidation of their people.

He cautioned against brutality and violation of rights of their people.

The clergyman urged the authorities to work towards the wellbeing, security and prosperity of the people.

He said any country or groups or even individuals that practically express these were actually doing God’s work and will certainly earn divine blessing.

“The level of intimidation,  brutality as well as violations of rights of citizens in Nigeria and Africa as a whole is worrisome. 

“It is important that governments and people in power should desist from intimidating their peoples. 

“Crimes of banditry, kidnappings, denials or violations of rights should be checked. 

“Governments anywhere in the world exist purposely to protect and cater for the welfare of their peoples. Even the Holy Bible strongly prescribes taking care of the weak and the widows”, he said.