NSCEA Letter: A Disclaimer to All the “Heresy’s Messages” Spread by Abel Damina

INTERVIEW WITH BISHOP PROFESSOR MERCY FUNMILAYO ADESANYA-DAVIES – NSCEA

Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, Secretary, Elders’ Council, Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA) shares an interview with Kehinde Shonola at newsmeding.com on the fact that Pastor Abel Damina, the Senior Pastor of Power City International Church, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has been accused of preaching “fallacies and heretics,” laced with unsound arguments by NSCEA.

1. Who is Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies of Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA)?

Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies attended the University of Ife, Ile- Ife, Oyo State, for a B.A (Combined Hons) in English & Yoruba Studies between 1981-1985. Immediately after her NYSC, she went on to obtain a Master’s degree in 1987 in English language at the University of Ilorin, Kwara State. As part of requirements for her new found love in academics, teaching and research, in 2000, Professor Mercy Adesanya-Davies bagged her PGDE, and then completed her Ph.D in 2003 in Applied Linguistics and Communication Studies at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

She started her lecturing career in 1985 at University of Ilorin, Kwara State while on National Youth Service Corps, after which she lectured at Kwara State College of Technology, Ilorin, now Kwara State Polytechnic following her Master’s degree in 1987, before joining Rivers State College of Education (RSCOE) now Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, (IAUE) in January, 1989.

She is currently a Professor of Applied linguistics at Department of English and Communication Arts, Faculty of Humanities, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE) Port Harcourt, Rivers, where she also lectures till date.

2. Prof, how has your experience been in the University system as a Linguist and Communication scholar?

What an honor to reflect on my four-decade journey in the university system as a linguist and communication scholar! Thanks.

My experience has been truly enriching, with numerous milestones and lessons. Here’s a glimpse:
Early Years (1980s-1990s)
I began my academic career with passion and idealism. As a young lecturer, I was driven to inspire students and contribute to the growth of linguistics and communication studies in Nigeria.

Growth and Expansion (2000s-2010s)
As I progressed in my career, I took on various roles: departmental chair, faculty dean, and director of GNS center. These positions allowed me to shape curriculum development, mentor junior colleagues, and foster interdisciplinary collaborations.

Research and Publications
My research focus in linguistics, language, and communication which has led to numerous publications, conference presentations, and awards.

Teaching and Mentorship
Teaching has been a highlight of my career. I’ve supervised countless undergraduate and graduate students, many of whom have become accomplished professionals. Witnessing their growth and contributing to their intellectual development has been incredibly rewarding. In conclusion, my four-decade journey in the university system has been a rewarding and enriching experience. What is most interesting about it is my area of discipline. The fact that I teach language, linguistics and communications at the first, second and Ph.D levels; and I am still in the University engagement till the retirement of 70 years as a full professor by God’s grace.

3. Apart from being a professor, you also have the title of Bishop. Can you discuss a bit of this?

Actually, though born into Christian faith and a Baptist Church Deacon’s family, at Emmanuel Baptist church, Ilorin, Kwara State, I got born again in 1974 at the FCS/Scripture Union in my secondary school days. I joined Faith Liberation Hour, at Christian Youths Center, Ilorin now Living Faith Church; and Deeper Life Bible Fellowship at Ilorin, from their inceptions in early 80s. I served on FCS and NIFES executives in my university days. Then, I got consecrated as a Bishop in 2017 to the Glory of God, and I am member of the IPMA Incorporated Worldwide College of Bishops and Ministers Network, USA, Africa, UK and Asia (aka The International Prophetic Missions/Ministerial Association (IPMA) College of Bishops, (Affiliate of Council of World Churches, USA). I am also the the Secretary of Elders Council, Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA) and a Representative Educational Consultant of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), by the special grace of God.

In 1989, as a pastor and defender of the faith of God in Christ, I co-founded Agape Bible Church, (Eagle’s Cathedral), aka Christian Excellence Ministries, now at Presidential Estate, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. At a point, I also ventured into politics, so I was the Presidential candidate of Mass Action Joint Alliance (MAJA), of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the 2019 general elections.

4. What drove you to dabble into politics before? And will you still go into politics?

What drove me to foray into politics was my desire to offer selfless and exemplary leadership to Nigerians. I’d aimed to bring about the real change that Nigerians were yearning for as the first Nigerian female president. As the flag bearer and presidential candidate of the Mass Action Joint Alliance (MAJA) party, I was determined to provide a fresh perspective and alternative leadership to the country by forming a unity government.

With my background as a university don, I’d wanted to bring a unique set of skills and expertise with some Nigerian cream of the society to the table and take care of the Nigerian youths especially. It’s worthy of note that I even got the endorsement of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

However, I’ll want to reserve my comments on that second question, God knowest.

5. In the open letter to Pastor Abel Damina, which you signed, he said he was not aware of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA). What is the objective of the organisation?

He can’t be aware, because one hardly sees the foundation to a house, one only sees the building itself, but Abel Damina can as well google us and our great works when duty calls. We are like angels on assignment, e.g, we deliberate at meetings, we speak government and powers that be, we had submitted Christian proposals for constitution review, we applied for establishment of Ecclesiastical Courts in Nigeria, we said no to RUGA, we said no to CAMA, we settle Churches and Ministers internal crises and scuffles, etc., always on the move, when we say it, it settles it. Only an empty barrel makes the loudest noise.

NSCEA is an engine room to Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), performing only very serious specialised, official duties and functions as we’re designed for, like the name is, as any other supreme council. We work hand in hand with CAN.

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA) is a prominent organization in Nigeria, defending the faith and fostering unity, cooperation, and spiritual growth among Christian denominations and ecclesiastical bodies.

Generally, the Supreme Council typically refers to a high-level governing or advisory body within an organization, religion, or government. Some examples in the religious context include, Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA), representing Christian interests in Nigeria and Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (SCIA) which represents Muslim interests in Nigeria. Specific functions of a Supreme Council usually include:

1. High-level decision-making authority
2. Representative membership
3. Strategic planning
4. Oversight and accountability
5. Collaborative leadership
6. Advisory role
7. Regulation
8. Coordination
9. Conflict resolution
10. Impacting and influencing the society.

As such, this Council being well registered in Nigeria over the years, has high power calibre leadership of Christian Bishop professors, Bishops, Professors, Doctors, other Professionals, etc,. I am just a servant on-board as Secretary of the Elders’ Council, by Nigerian Christian elders and leaders. NSCEA is an affiliate of African Association for Ecclesiastical Affairs (AAEA) which is an affiliate of International Association for Ecclesiastical Affairs (IAEA), worldwide.

6. Can you elaborate on the areas where Pastor Damina engaged in heretic teachings?Again, the letter by the NSCEA also said he used fallacies. Can you kindly share insights to this?

Yes, we at Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA) had cautioned Dr. Abel Damina from his “USE OF NEGATIVE HYPE UP PHRASES” while preaching and disseminating gospel messages henceforth. Abel Damina twists direct simple Christian massages using confusing bogus and verbose words in his preachings.

I had noted that, “most of these his sub-titles are mere fallacies on high hype up, and must be stopped. In fact, the notions are mistaken beliefs, especially based on generalisations and unsound arguments. His teaching style is “USE OF NEGATIVE HYPE UP PHRASES AND PROPOSITIONS” and are “MOSTLY WITH WRONG BODY LANGUAGE,” which is unbecoming of a man of God and it’s not supposed to be a branded language style for religious purposes in semantic parlance and pragmatic terms with implications.

The “Open Letter” reads in part: We, at the Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA), have observed with dismay your current preachings and teachings of Biblical tenets and hereby write to express grave concern and caution regarding these your teachings, which have been brought to our attention. This letter also serves as a DISCLAIMER.

Heresy is, “a belief or opinion contrary to orthodox Christian doctrine and any belief, teaching or practice that explicitly undermines the gospel.” Heresies are “beliefs or teachings that deviate from established or orthodox doctrine, often considered contrary to the accepted teachings of a religion or faith.”

In Christianity, these include:

1. Arianism: Denies Jesus’ divinity.
2. Gnosticism: Emphasizes secret knowledge over faith.
3. Pelagianism: Rejects original sin and predestination.
4. Donatism: Questions validity of sacraments performed by unworthy clergy.
5. Monophysitism: Believes in single nature of Christ.

While we appreciate your passion for spreading the Gospel, we cannot ignore the alarming rate of theological and methodological errors and heresies in your messages, especially as it is now going viral on social media as hate speech and cyber crime against the Christian faith. Please note that, the Bible is not for philosophising, it’s the WORD OF GOD inspired of the Holy Ghost in faith.

Specifically, we have issues with the following titles of your messages such as: “There is no heaven”, “You don’t need God to Succeed”, “Jesus is not coming back”, Heaven is scam, “God is not responsible”, Jesus Christ is not a Christian”, Jesus Christ is God the Father and there is no trinity”, “The Bible is not the Word of God”, No to Holy communion and No to tithing, No to Baptistism”, etc,.

We assert that, most of these your topics are mere fallacies and heretic, while the notions are mistaken and made beliefs, especially based on generalisations, self interpretation, personalised style and unsound arguments. For instance, in English, “the notion that the camera never lies is a fallacy.” You also know this, but your preaching style is focused on attracting your audience rather than being correct and spiritual.

These teachings deviate from the fundamental beliefs and doctrines of Christianity and the Christian faith, contradicting the Holy Scriptures and the historic confessions of the faith. Your interpretations in most cases are also subjective to undermine the authority of Scripture, compromise the deity of Christ, and confuse the nature of our great salvation.

Notably, the core tenets of Christian faith include:
CORE DOCTRINES:

1. Trinity: One God in three persons – Father, Son (Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit.
2. Incarnation: Jesus Christ, fully human and fully divine.
3. Salvation: Faith in Jesus Christ saves humanity from sin and its consequences.
4. Bible: Inspired, authoritative, and infallible scripture.
5. Creation: God created the universe and humanity.

As leaders in the Nigerian Christian community at NSCEA, we cannot continue to tolerate and watch him in this his predicament, we take exception to it and your attitude to the Christian fathers are rude, disrespectful and unacceptable. We are compelled to address these errors and ensure the integrity of our shared faith. And so we had urged you to:

1. Publicly retract and correct these false teachings.
2. Engage in theological dialogue with reputable scholars to clarify and deepen his understanding.
3. Align his ministry with the orthodox, evangelical and pentecostal teachings of Christianity or back out completely.
   It is always good to know enough to realise that you do not know enough.

We at NSCEA remained committed to upholding the truth and unity of the Body of Christ in Nigeria.”

In fact, I also seize this opportunity to advise and admonish all other persons, groups and individuals involved in all manner of “Cases of Hate Speeches and Cyber Harassments,” which is defined as, “An unsolicited, hostile repeated behaviour by a person through cyberspace with an intent to terrify, intimidate, humiliate, threaten, harass or stalk another person”; to henceforth restrain and desist from these crimes aimed at tarnishing the image of the Body of Christ and Christianity, and mind their own businesses as they create their social media contents. Allow the Christians to breathe, don’t suffocate us, okay! Moreover, with this, other ministers of the Gospel with strange fetishism and doctrinal practices should take note and be cautioned.

It is an undeniable and undisputable fact, that Christianity is a very peaceful religion and the Christian community in Nigeria are peace loving people who don’t wage wars for themselves or the ALMIGHTY GOD and His Christ. “A word they say is enough for the wise and to be forewarned is to be forearmed, the Christians are praying”.

7. Pastor Damina, in a video, said most of the accusations in the open letter were not true. What will you say about this?

Then, he should go and re-listen to himself, recount them, and change his style and body language with apologies, while walking in love. He should respect the elders and go and discuss with CAN.

Like we said, we had urged him to:

1. Publicly retract and correct these false teachings.
2. Engage in theological dialogue with reputable scholars to clarify and deepen his understanding.
3. Align his ministry with the orthodox, evangelical and pentecostal teachings of Christianity or back out completely.
   Again, let him know that its always good to know enough to know that you don’t know enough. You can’t know more than everybody!

We at NSCEA remain committed to upholding the truth and unity of the Body of Christ in Nigeria. So his letter was copied to CAN as well.

8. He also said that he would be willing to have the members of the Council in his foundational class for free. What do you say to this?

Which foundation class? Whose foundation class?? What foundation class??? That exemplifies his use of over-statement and unChristlike style we are trying to curb, because of his gullible followers. That statement again is rude and unacceptable. I, the Secretary for instance had a Master’s in English language in 1987, l have lectured in the University in the past forty years, let alone the elders.

We have elders in the Council like Nonagenarian, Pa. Prof. Olusola Ajolore at NSCEA, Papa is also the current Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Full Gospel Business Men’s International (FGBMl), and Mama Dr. Sarah Jibril, Bishop Prof. Ezekiel Nyenwegwe Alubi, Elder Nimi B.J Fyneface, Evang. Bishop Michael O. Amamieye, among others. There are also Octogenarians, Seasoned professionals, Experienced individuals, Respected elders, Wisdom keepers, Vibrant seniors, Golden and Senior veterans with wisdom, experience and spirit of excellence on the Board, there on the Council. Simply put, something is fundamentally wrong with Dr. Damina and he needs to wake up!

9. The Council said in the letter that Pastor Damina should retract those his ‘heretic’ teachings. Was this advice or warning?

Whichever way he sees it, is totally okay. However, to us, it is a warning from a great concern, a letter of Disclaimer and an excommunication.

The Council’s motivations include: Protecting doctrine and orthodoxy, maintaining unity among member churches as well as, preventing potential harm to congregants; and Pastor Damina would have to retract some of these his teachings to avoid conflict with the entire Body of Christ.

10. He said in the video that the Council was maligning him. Was this true? What was the aim of the open letter?

How would such a strong Council malign an individual? Only an empty barrel makes the loudest noise. We always give all the Ministers a lot of respect, time and space. They hardly hear from us. But his generalisations are too strong, divisive, aggressive and so much gone viral already for any dialogues. He is currently trending among unbelievers and youths leaving them confused.

Really, the aims of the open letter were:
To serve as an immediate remedy,
To serve as a deterrent,
To manage the present,
For the future of unborn generations,
To show that the Christian community later became proactive after keeping quiet and watching him over a long time.

The letter aims at protecting doctrine and orthodoxy, maintaining unity, love and respect amongst member churches and further preventing potential harm to congregants. Thus, Abel Damina will have to retract and re-preach his teachings with love, respect and without contention to avoid conflicts and seeds of discord sown in the Body of Christ. He should rather let his teachings minister grace unto the hearers without rationalisation and sense knowledge.

11. What are your beliefs contrary to what Dr Abel Damina said?

Damina sounds Ike a joker with some of his beliefs, hype up phrases and proclamations!According to the Holy Scriptures and NSCEA beliefs, for me, I believe:
“There is heaven!”,
“We need God to Succeed”,
‘With God all things are possible’
“Jesus Christ is coming back again”,
“Heaven is real”,
“Hell is real”,
“God is responsible”,
” You need God to succeed’,
“Jesus Christ is the is the head of the Church”,
“People in the bible are Christians so we preach Christ’,
“ I believe in God the Father, Jesus Christ, the Son and God the Holy Spirit and there is Trinity”, “The Bible is the Word of God”,
“I believe in the Holy communion”,
“I believe in Baptism”
“I believe tithing, giving, justice, mercy and love.” -Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies

12. However, what do you appreciate about Dr. Abel Damina’s messages because it’s all can’t be wrong?

Thank you, he preaches Christ, the Lord Jesus Christ and I give that to him. Everyone on the pulpit would need to emulate him and get back to the basics of PREACHING JESUS CHRIST. The scriptures talk about seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteous, and all other things shall be added unto you. So you can’t be preaching “all other things” like money, prosperity, anointing oil and motivational messages without preaching the main, the main thing, which is CHRIST AND SALVATION.

I am referencing Matthew 6:33:
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (NKJV).

This verse emphasizes prioritizing one’s relationship with God and living according to His will. By doing so, other aspects of life will fall into place. General overseers, Bishops, Reverends Pastors, Evangelists and Ministers should prioritise teaching God’s kingdom, i.e Christ, new birth/salvation, righteousness, spiritual growth, holiness, sanctification and obedience to God’s word their primary focus. Preaching all these, striving to live according to God’s standards and principles. Thanks you.

13. The issue of tithes has always been a debate recently in Christendom. What is your take on this?

For me, I have never ever provided over tithes, offerings and seeds nor taken a salary from Church like brother Paul, this my hand works for me, same with most members of the NSCEA Elder’s Council as well. We give and we don’t take from Church.

The debate on tithing has indeed sparked intense discussion within Christendom. Here’s a balanced perspective, grounded in the Scriptures in my opinion and in the opinion of NSCEA:

Definition and Historical Context:
Tithing, from the Hebrew word “ma’aser” (meaning “a tenth”), refers to the practice of giving 10% of one’s income to support the Levites, priests, and the poor (Leviticus 27:30-32, Numbers 18:21-24).

Old Testament Context:
In the Old Testament, tithing was:

1. Mandatory (Leviticus 27:30-32)
2. For the support of the Levites and priests (Numbers 18:21-24)
3. For the care of the poor and strangers (Deuteronomy 14:28-29, 26:12-13)

New Testament Perspective:
In the New Testament:

1. Jesus affirms the principle of tithing (Matthew 23:23), but emphasizes inner purity and justice.
2. The early church practiced voluntary giving, not mandatory tithing (Acts 2:44-45, 2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
3. Paul emphasizes the importance of generosity, not percentages (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Key Principles:

1. Giving should be voluntary, not coerced (2 Corinthians 9:7).
2. Giving should be proportional to one’s income (1 Corinthians 16:2).
3. Giving should prioritize the poor and vulnerable (Galatians 2:10, James 1:27).

Contemporary Application:

1. Tithing can be a helpful discipline for stewardship and generosity.
2. However, it should not be enforced as a law or used to manipulate believers.
3. Churches should prioritize transparency and accountability in finances.
4. Everybody in church should be well catered for as in the practice in the book of Acts by the early apostles and disciples.

Scriptural Balance:

1. Malachi 3:10 – “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse…” (often cited to support mandatory tithing)
2. 2 Corinthians 9:7 – “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart…” (emphasizing voluntary giving)

To conclude, tithing, when practiced voluntarily and proportionally, can be a meaningful expression of worship and stewardship. However, it should not be enforced as a law or used to burden believers. Churches should prioritize teaching biblical principles of generosity, compassion, and financial responsibility. I pray may this balanced perspective inspire thoughtful reflection and biblical practice by the entire Body of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Recommended Reading:

1. “The Tithe” by Douglas LeBlanc
2. “Giving” by John R.W. Stott
3. “The Treasure Principle” by Randy Alcorn
4. What is your advice to the young Christians about different teachings coming from different Ministers and Ministries?

To young Christians navigating diverse teachings from various ministers and ministries:
Be discerning, not divisive

1. Study Scripture: Ground yourself in the Bible, understanding its context and teachings.
2. Seek guidance: Consult trusted spiritual mentors, pastors, or theologians.
3. Evaluate teachings: Compare messages with Scripture, considering:
   • Context
   • Consistency
   • Biblical accuracy
4. Avoid extremes: Be cautious of teachings that:
   • Emphasize prosperity over piety
   • Focus on self over service
   • Promote exclusivity or elitism
5. Cultivate critical thinking: Don’t blindly follow; question and seek clarification.
6. Prioritize unity: Recognize diversity in non-essentials, but unite on core Christian doctrines.
7. Pray for wisdom: Seek God’s guidance in navigating complex teachings.

Core Christian Doctrines

1. Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit)
2. Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ
3. Authority of Scripture
4. Resurrection and second coming of Jesus
5. Importance of love, forgiveness, and humility

Red Flags

1. Teachings contradicting core doctrines
2. Emphasis on self-aggrandizement or material wealth
3. Manipulation or coercion
4. Lack of accountability or transparency
5. Exclusivist or divisive rhetoric

Recommended Resources

1. Bible study materials (e.g., BSF, InterVarsity)
2. Theological texts (e.g., “Systematic Theology” by Wayne Grudem)
3. Christian apologetics resources (e.g., C.S. Lewis, Ravi Zacharias)
4. Online platforms (e.g., Desiring God, Gospel Coalition)
5. Local church communities with sound doctrine

Remember

1. God’s truth is unchanging, despite varying interpretations.
2. Humility and openness to correction are essential.
3. Your faith journey is unique; seek guidance, not comparison.
   They must do like the Berean Christians. May you grow in wisdom, discernment, and faith, grounded in God’s Word.
4. Again, finally with the use of scriptures, what is your advice to the young Christians about different teachings coming from different Ministers and ministries?

To young Christians navigating diverse teachings, check the scriptures:
Test all teachings against Scripture (1 Thessalonians 5:21, 1 John 4:1)

1. Study the Bible diligently (2 Timothy 2:15)
2. Evaluate teachings in light of Scripture (Acts 17:11)
3. Be cautious of teachings that:
   • Contradict core Christian doctrines (Galatians 1:8-9)
   • Emphasize self over service (Philippians 2:3-4)
   • Focus on prosperity over piety (1 Timothy 6:10)

Seek wisdom and discernment (James 1:5, Hebrews 5:14)

1. Pray for understanding (Psalm 119:130)
2. Consult trusted spiritual mentors (Proverbs 11:14)
3. Consider multiple perspectives (Proverbs 18:13)

Unite on essentials, tolerate non-essentials (Romans 14:1-4, Ephesians 4:13)

1. Prioritize unity (John 17:21-23)
2. Recognize diversity in non-essentials (1 Corinthians 12:4-6)
3. Focus on Christ’s teachings (Matthew 28:19-20)

Beware of false teachings (Matthew 7:15-20, 2 Peter 2:1-3)

1. Watch for:
   • False prophets (Matthew 24:24)
   • Wolves in sheep’s clothing (Acts 20:29-30)
2. Be alert to:
   • Manipulation (2 Corinthians 11:3)
   • Deception (Ephesians 4:14)

Recommended Scriptures

1. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (Scripture’s authority)
2. 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 (diversity in unity)
3. Ephesians 4:11-16 (gifts for unity)
4. Matthew 28:19-20 (Great Commission)
5. Psalm 119:105 (Scripture’s guidance)

Prayer
Dear Lord, grant me wisdom to discern Your truth. Help me to test all teachings against Your Word and unite with fellow believers in love and humility. Amen.
May you grow in wisdom, discernment, and faith, grounded in God’s Word.

16. On a lighter note for the purpose of admonition Prof., what would you like to tell Dr. Abel Damina?

Jesus is Christ and the foundation of Christianity, and I am a Christian in Christ, that’s why we are all called Christians. Again, according to the Holy Scriptures:

James 3:1 (KJV) emphasizes the importance of humility and accountability in leadership:
“My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.” (James 3:1, KJV)
Or
“My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment.” (NKJV)
Or
“Do not many of you assume the role of teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment.” (James 3:1, NASB)

This verse cautions against: Seeking positions of authority for personal gain, assuming superiority over others and failing to recognize the weight of responsibility of leadership and disrespecting others.

Instead, brother James encourages brethren to acquire the qualities of: Humility in leadership, awareness of accountability and recognition of God’s judgment, because He weighs the motives.

Related Scriptures include:

1. Matthew 23:8-10 – Avoid seeking titles or positions
2. Luke 12:48 – Greater responsibility brings greater accountability
3. 1 Timothy 4:16 – Leaders must be exemplary
4. Hebrews 13:17 – Leaders will give an account.

Furthermore, the Scripture in Matthew 23:8-10 reads:

“But you, do not be called ‘Rabbi’; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren. Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ.” (NKJV)

These scriptures emphasize: Humility: Recognize God as the ultimate authority. Equality: All believers are brothers and sisters in Christ. And Singular focus: Christ is our primary Teacher and Guide while we, prioritize unity and equality among believers being mindful of accountability and judgment.

For instance, this is a teaching in foundational classes, you don’t need to be called “Global Papa” or whatever.

17. Damina said he does not know about NSCEA, could you please enlighten him?

If he is so distanced and ignorant, he should find out about Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs, NSCEA from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and our five blocs, specialised Departments and other Affiliate Organizations of CAN. I for instance, I am a resource person to the CAN Education Department and CAN Media and Communications Department.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) is the apex umbrella body of churches in Nigeria, comprising various bodies and blocs, representing different Christian denominations and organizations.

The blocs include:

1. Catholic Bloc (led by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria).
2. Protestant Bloc (led by the Protestant Churches in Nigeria).
3. Pentecostal Bloc (led by the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN).
4. Evangelical Bloc (led by the Evangelical Church Winning All, ECWA).
5. Orthodox Bloc (led by the Orthodox Church in Nigeria).

The Denominational Groups are :

1. Catholic Church
2. Anglican Church
3. Methodist Church
4. Baptist Church
5. Presbyterian Church
6. Lutheran Church
7. Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA)
8. Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion)
9. Nigerian Baptist Convention
10. Presbyterian Church of Nigeria.

The Regional and State Chapters are:

1. CAN North-Central Zone
2. CAN North-East Zone
3. CAN North-West Zone
4. CAN South-East Zone
5. CAN South-South Zone
6. CAN South-West Zone
7. State Chapters (e.g., CAN Lagos, CAN Abuja, CAN Port Harcourt).

Specialized Departments:

1. CAN Youth Wing
2. CAN Women Wing
3. CAN Relief and Development Agency
4. CAN Education Department
5. CAN Media and Communications Department.

Other Affiliate Organizations of CAN:

1. Christian Lawyers Fellowship of Nigeria (CLASFON)
2. Christian Medical and Dental Association of Nigeria (CMDA)
3. Christian Teachers Association of Nigeria (CTAN)
4. Christian Students Association of Nigeria (CSAN).

NSCEA works with them all as the name is, and no individual can pocket the Body of Christ in Nigeria, no matter how much you think you know. These bodies work together to promote unity, peace, and Christian values in Nigeria. I am a servant there.

18. You reached out and sent him mails?

Yes, Abel Damina needs to talk less because he himself does not know “rules of engagement” and has never employed it with all the fathers like Pastor G.O Enoch Adeboye, Pastor Williams Kumuyi, Bishop David Oyedepo, Bishop David Abioye, Dr Paul Enenche, Pastor David Ibieyomie etc,. that he has been re-preaching, insulting and condemning. I insist, Abel Damina has crossed the line!After calling his phone lines severally, his admin staffs insisted the best and only way is send all information to his email, which was given to us, so we did.

Again, he said the team that wrote him are likely not born again when he started preaching, I for instance got born again in 1974 when the travelling Secretary of FCS, Brother Charles Achonwa preached at my Secondary school FCS meeting in our 4pm Sunday service in Kwara State. I know the place, I know the day, I know the hour and I know the time!

19. Dr. Abel Damina said he is not sure you’re a Professor?

Not only that, he even said, “She is not a serious professor, because she has not joined my discipleship class,” and that “NSCEA wants to be noticed.” He is not only confused but has evolved into a pure Confucianist.

He is a novice, that he his calling others, he doesn’t and couldn’t get information and find out things. I don’t want to trade words with him at all, because I don’t like stooping low to any form of arrogance and stupidity. I am a respected and classy person. I still invigilated my Ph.D’ students’ examination at the university yesterday. He said that, I am an ‘alleged professor’, he should google me online, including at the NUC website’s of Nigerian University professors. I have lectured in the university since 1985 when I graduated from the University of Ife now OAU. I am also interested in his resume and when, where and how he obtained his first degree, masters and Ph.D for records; because those certificates we give in the universities are given ‘in character and in learning.”

“In character and learning” is a phrase often used to describe the ideal qualities of a person, especially in the context of education and personal development.

Character refers to the moral and ethical qualities that define a person’s personality, values, and behavior, such as: Integrity, Honesty, Compassion, Empathy, Responsibility, Respect and Fairness.

Learning encompasses the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and understanding, which include: Academic achievement, Critical thinking, Problem-solving skills, Communication skills, Creativity, Analytical thinking and Adaptability. One can’t run from all these attributes, because the awarding university can withdraw one’s certificates.

20. Your closing remarks Bishop Professor?

God is not an author of confusion, and the man of God must not strive, so let there be love, peace and unity among us Christians and let there be respect to the elders that labour as we move on to perfection in this faith journey, curbing every form of excesses.

I wish him well as he lines up and clarifies all his “hype up phrases and doctrines with the help of the Holy Spirit” as he claims to be the TEACHER of teachers and PASTOR of pastors.
Thank you.