Daniel Agbolade, Ibadan

Oyo state Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Mr. Benjamin Akanmu, has called for unconditional support of all indigenes for the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, to succeed in turning around the fortunes of the state. 

He made the call in a short message to the congregation shortly after he was awarded as the Most Distinguished Father of the year at "2019 Father Abraham's Award".

It was organized by New Heritage Baptist Church, Eniosa, a Mission Church of Ibadan North Baptist Association in commemoration of 2019 International Fathers' Day.

Baptist theme for this year's fathers' day is "Unavailable Father".

Also given awards as "Outstanding Fathers of the Year" include Messers Tunde Babatunde, David Temitope Hambolu,  Rotimi Ajanaku and  Philemon Ajide.

The CAN Chairman said, "As we celebrate this year Fathers' Day I would like to appeal to every good citizen and resident of Oyo state to give undiluted support to the new administration in the state led by Mr. Seyi Makinde to record unprecedented success and improve standard of living of all."

He remarked that the governor needed the support of all to succeed in all sectors, including security, education that require urgent attention and also return the state to its pace setting status.

While quoting from the bible, he said, "no king can emerge without the knowledge of God. And God commanded us to pray for our Jerusalem, and our Jerusalem is Oyo State and Nigeria. God even prophesied that those who loved their nation will prosper. By praying for Makinde's success you are indirectly inviting prosperity into your life."

The cleric however advised Makinde not to betray the trust and confidence that the people reposed in him, adding that, "my advise to the people's governor is not to disappoint the electorate, religion leaders, his political leaders and associates.

He should see all citizens of the state as his subjects, irrespective of age, creed, political or religion affiliation. The Governor must be governor of all and ensure good governance with human face".

He also advised fathers to emulate Makinde's father, Mr Olatubosun in children upbringing, saying "Let me share a story narrated by Makinde to all fathers and also appeal to you to apply it to your way of bringing up your children. The governor said he was one day forced to ask his father - why are you so hash, tough, wicked to your children?

"But his father responded saying - I am not wicked but trying to give you good training and not compromising nor slack to secure better future for you children since you are four boys and one girl."

The Pastor of the Church, Mr Philemon Ajide, charged all fathers to be available fathers to their children and emulate Christ.

He  said, "Every father should make himself available to his children, wife, the service of God. As fathers, we must love our family unconditionally in our action, word and other areas. An available father must be ready to release himself for service; to serve means dedication, commitment, protection, honour, discover and develop their (wife, children) gifts, communicate, care, sincere."