*Pastor Adeboye Brings The Good News Nationwide In RCCG’s Annual Let’s Go A-Fishing Outreach*

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) wrapped up its annual ‘Let’s Go A-Fishing’ program nationwide from December 21st to 27th, 2024. With the theme “Good News,” this year’s program saw the General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, fondly known as Daddy G.O., visiting select locations nationwide to share a message of hope and transformation.

*Spreading the Good News Across Nigeria*

While RCCG parishes and regions held their own ‘Let’s Go A-Fishing’ events nationwide, Daddy G.O. embarked on a journey across Delta, Ekiti, Ondo, Ogun, and Lagos states, visiting these locations to deliver the Good News. His itinerary included Agbarha-Otor in Delta State; Ilogbo in Ekiti State; Ore, Okitipupa, Akungba Akoko, and Akure in Ondo State; Ikenne, Ago-Iwoye, and Abeokuta in Ogun State; and Alagbado, Surulere, LASU, Lekki, and Epe in Lagos State.
Prominent figures, including the Ekiti State Governor, the Ondo State Deputy Governor, and royal fathers from hosting communities, attended the various locations. Their presence highlighted the program’s significance as a bridge between faith, leadership, and community engagement.

*A Message of Hope and Transformation*

At each location, Daddy G.O. shared the “Good News,” where he spoke passionately about Jesus Christ’s mission to save humanity, explaining how Christ came to earth, bore humanity’s sins, and offered salvation and eternal life to all who will believe. His message resonated deeply, leading to altar calls where thousands of attendees gave their lives to Christ.
In addition to his sermons, Daddy G.O. prayed for peace, prosperity, and spiritual renewal in the communities he visited. His heartfelt prayers brought comfort and inspiration to leaders and attendees alike.

*Touching Lives Beyond Words*

True to RCCG’s commitment to holistic ministry, the ‘Let’s Go A-Fishing’ program extended its reach beyond spiritual matters. Across the states, RCCG organized Christian Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, including free medical treatments, food distribution, and other welfare activities. These efforts provided tangible relief to families, demonstrating the church’s dedication to serving the soul and the body.

*A Legacy of Impact*

Since its inception more than two decades ago, the ‘Let’s Go A-Fishing’ program has become a cornerstone of RCCG’s mission to bring the Gospel to all corners of Nigeria.
Founded in 1952 by Pastor Josiah Akindayomi and now led by Daddy G.O., RCCG is one of the largest Pentecostal denominations globally, with a strong presence in communities worldwide. Its programs, including the Holy Ghost Service and Holy Ghost Congress, continue to transform lives.

Nigerians in South Africa: Struggling for Justice Amid Violence and Xenophobia

In a revealing interview with Biodun Busari, Frank Onyewekelu, President of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa, sheds light on the challenges facing Nigerians in the country, from violent xenophobic attacks to systemic injustices. The recent killing of Julius Chukwunta, a Nigerian national, has reignited calls for diplomatic intervention and justice.

The Death of Julius Chukwunta

The tragic death of Julius Chukwunta unfolded in Midrand, Johannesburg, on December 7, 2024. According to Onyewekelu, Chukwunta was returning home with his South African partner, Miss Lumka, when an altercation occurred. After attempting to resolve a parking dispute with four individuals, Chukwunta was brutally attacked, sustaining fatal injuries.

“They inflicted heavy injuries on him by hitting a brick on his head, which led to a massive loss of blood,” Onyewekelu recounted. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Chukwunta succumbed to his injuries on December 10.

Legal Actions and Concerns Over Justice

Chukwunta’s partner reported the incident to the Midrand Police, leading to the arrest of the four suspects. However, Onyewekelu expressed disappointment in the judicial process after three of the suspects were granted bail for 10,000 rand each.

“The prosecutor had the right to oppose bail, especially when there is a risk of the suspects fleeing the country. Three of the attackers were Zimbabweans with South African residency, making them flight risks,” Onyewekelu explained.

The fourth suspect, yet to appoint a legal representative, is expected to apply for bail in the next hearing, scheduled for February 2025.

A Pattern of Violence and Neglect

Chukwunta’s death is not an isolated incident. Between November 2023 and December 2024, Onyewekelu reported 15 to 20 similar cases of Nigerians dying under questionable circumstances in South Africa.

“Many Nigerians have died in police custody or from brutal attacks, with little to no justice served,” he said. He cited incidents where Nigerians died during police raids or while in detention, often without explanations or follow-ups.

The Role of the Nigerian Government

Onyewekelu emphasized the need for stronger intervention from Nigerian authorities, urging the government to address these recurring issues diplomatically and publicly.

“We need more steps, such as media briefings, to make South Africans understand that Nigerian lives matter,” he stated. He also called for increased collaboration between the Nigerian consulate and South African authorities to ensure justice and prevent further incidents.

Debunking Stereotypes About Nigerians

Onyewekelu addressed the common misconception that Nigerians are taking jobs or resources from South Africans.

“Nigerians in South Africa are largely self-employed, running businesses and even employing South Africans,” he said. He also highlighted that accusations of Nigerians ‘stealing’ jobs are unfounded and often perpetuated by individuals unwilling to pursue legitimate work.

On relationships, he noted, “When love happens, it happens. Nigerian men are caring, and that’s why many South African women choose them.”

Efforts to Foster Safety and Awareness

The Nigerian Citizens Association organizes workshops, seminars, and town hall meetings to educate Nigerians on legal and cultural expectations in South Africa.

“We teach our people about the rule of law, documentation, and how to live legitimately. We want them to stay on the right side of the law,” Onyewekelu said.

The association also works closely with Nigerian cultural groups to disseminate information, ensuring unity and shared responsibility within the diaspora community.

A Plea for Justice and Peace

As the Nigerian community in South Africa continues to navigate a challenging environment, Onyewekelu’s message is clear: justice and fairness must prevail. He hopes for stronger diplomatic ties, increased awareness, and a commitment to protecting lives and fostering peace between Nigerians and South Africans.

“We’re not asking for special treatment. We’re asking for fairness and the right to live safely and thrive in a foreign land,” he concluded.

Asattahir International Foundation Presents Recommendations On Fire Disaster

Sahara Weekly Reports The foundation’s findings and recommendations aim to address the growing frequency of fire incidents in the state and ensure their transition into practical, impactful actions.

In his opening remarks, AIF’s executive secretary, Prof Yahaya Tanko Baba, emphasized the urgency of addressing Sokoto’s increasing fire outbreaks.

Collaboration among stakeholders is pivotal to implementing these recommendations and safeguarding lives and properties,” he said, reiterating AIF’s commitment to public safety and effective disaster management.

ASATTAHIR International Foundation (AIF) has conducted a stakeholder engagement to implement its research recommendations on fire disaster preparedness and response in Sokoto State.

The forum brought together representatives from government agencies, emergency response teams, and community leaders to address the challenges of fire outbreaks and advocate for proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.

The engagement, moderated by Dr Garba Ibrahim, head of the Access and Safety Department at AIF, followed AIF’s extensive nine-month research on fire disasters in Sokoto.