News
EYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
EYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
By: Balami Lazarus
One man with a Holy Bible forcefully tried in an attempt to disjoint and change the course of history of the 100-year centenary celebration of EYN-CCBN in Nigeria. What is the rationale for “celebring 100 years of existence at two different locations”? Likes of one Rev. Joel Billi, who lacks a sense of history, if given the chance, will turn historical events and their marks upside-down and inside-out to create different versions and interpretations.
Men are subjects of history and have always neglected the importance of their footprints in the place of history, failing to realize that their activities could be a topic of history in discourse. The tempest raised by Rev. Billi at the wake of the 100-year centenary celebration of Ekklesiya Yan’uwa a Nigeriya, Church of Brethren in Nigeria (EYN– CBN ) was alarming, dire, appalling, and hair-rraising that shook the church founded over 100 years ago: March 1923, to March 17th, 2024 (101 years) as of now.
As an observer of the events, I write not only in support of one Mr. Yohanna Yusufu Balami (YY Balami), as he is known. His book, “Emerging Issues and Concerns: The 76th EYN General Church Council (Majelisa),” 2023. Has brought to light the deliberate distortion and near-death of the history of EYN Church in Nigeria. Rev. Joel, the President of EYN-CCBN was at the peak of this urgly and unhealthy situation that nearly consumed EYN as a Christian organization with her churches and members.
Looking at the issues from a historical perspective, considering the fact that Rev. Billi has discredited the true and correct source of a living history from his actions in the aftermath of the church centenary celebration to mark its 100 years of existence at Garkida, where it first started in 1923,. He began this by using the privileges of his official capacity as President of EYN-CCBN to change the course of the living history of the church that first appeared in Ladin Gabas’ northeastern Nigeria, where it was planted precisely on March 17, 1923, under a living tamarind tree at Garkida in Adamawa State by two white, humble missionaries, Rev. Stover Kulp and Dr. Albert Helser.
The news of circumventing the centenary celebration has turned the entire church council into confusion; clerics and members were disturbed by this eruption. With repeated rejection of Rev. Stephen Billi intentions that lack merit with no justification, only but to distort and change the history of origin, date, and site bore out of selfishness wrapped in greed, ethnic and monetary capitalization on the gainers chart, nurtured and promoted by him.
The concerned elders of the church and other high-profile personalities from the region, Rev. Joel, refused to shift ground, and of course darkness fell that came with a thick smell of breakup rearing its head among her many church branches. He was near achieving this feat through the disunity he created, powered, and sponsored through his throng of’vultures’ for the sole purpose of personal interest by tempering with the history of 100 years. Rev. Billi has technically distorted the church history of Nigeria.
In spite of the historical relics—tombs and plagues—on and under the living Tamarind Tree, individuals like Rev. Billi have had the guts to dare see such glaring evidence of church history long before he was born. “All other places the EYN missionaries went to were on different dates after March 17, 1923. Kwarhi was not there and has no significant attachment to its history dating back to 100 years.
The 17th of March 1923 will always and forever remain our Founders Day in Garkida under the blessed Tamarind Tree, making it our spiritual headquarterss.” My individual concern is the near collapse of the church and the damage to the rich history of EYN-CCBN. The question on the lips of members is: What has March 15, 2023, to do with the coming of Rev. Stover Kulp and Dr. Albert Helser? I put it to Rev. Joel Stephen Billi that this is but a broad-day robbery of EYN history. However, the cries of members and some well-meaning individuals in the public have helped to water down his intentions, which might have caused catastrophe for the entire EYN Church. I believe such will and shall not happen again in EYN-CBN as a church.
Balami, a publisher and columnist.
EYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
News
Cuba Condemns Reintroduction of Sanction by Trump
Cuba Condemns Reintroduction of Sanction by Trump
…Describes US President Imperialist
By: Michael Mike
Cuban Government has condemned the reintroduction by US President Donald Trump of tough economic warfare measures against Cuba, stating that it “proves the aggressiveness of US imperialism against the sovereignty, peace and welfare of the Cuban people.”
A statement by the Cuban Revolutionary Government read: “US President Donald Trump lashes out against Cuba from day one and without pretext. The decision to reinstate the tough economic warfare measures against Cuba, which his predecessor removed just days before, proves the aggressiveness of US imperialism against the sovereignty, peace and welfare of the Cuban people. These measures comprise the inclusion of our country, once again, in the arbitrary list of States that allegedly sponsor terrorism, a designation that shows an absolute disregard for the truth.
“This is no surprise. The statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of January 14 already warned: “that the government of that country could reverse in the future the measures adopted today, as has happened on other occasions and as a sign of the lack of legitimacy, ethics, consistency and reason in its conduct against Cuba”. It also affirmed that “U.S. politicians do not usually stop to find honest justification…” That is how they run their government in that country.”
The statement added that: “Trump has construed his coming to power as the coronation of an emperor. His ambition comprises, just to begin with, the conquest of Canada, the usurpation of Greenland, the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico and stripping the Panamanians of their canal. The hegemonic Monroe Doctrine and Manifest Destiny, which were enforced with blood and fire in Latin America and the Caribbean, are the driving force of the new government team.
“Those groups and politicians, who have made aggression against Cuba a way of life, profited for decades from the anti-Cuban business and today share the heady intoxication of the new president, are associated with him. They all bear a heavy responsibility in the difficult economic situation of the country and in the increase of the migratory flow from Cuba to the United States.
“This new act of aggression by the US government against the Cuban people shows, once again, the true, cruel and merciless purpose of these and so many other measures of siege and asphyxiation against Cuba for sake of dominating it. It constitutes a reaction of impotence given their inability to bend our will and the respect, sympathy and support that the Revolution commands among the peoples of the world.”
The statement lamented that: “The tightening of the economic blockade and the new aggressive measures will continue to weigh, with very harmful effects, on our economy, the standard of living, the potential for development and the legitimate dreams of justice and well-being of the Cuban people, as has been the case in recent years.”
The statement however assured that: “They will not deflect us from the Socialist course, from our determination to recover the economy, promote the widest possible solidarity, creativity, talent, spirit of work, and defend freedom, independence, sovereignty and the privilege of building a future without foreign interference as an ironclad stronghold.”
“The Cuban people appreciate the numerous expressions of support and solidarity received from all over the world, from governments, Cubans living abroad, parliaments, political, religious and social organisations, and political leaders from the United States and other countries.
No one should be mistaken. The Cuban people expressed itself with clear determination and force during the December 20 march. The conviction that CUBA WILL OVERCOME is what prevails here,” the statement further added.
Cuba Condemns Reintroduction of Sanction by Trump
News
MAJOR GENERAL OYINLOLA TAKES COMMAND AS 43RD GOC 3 DIVISION
MAJOR GENERAL OYINLOLA TAKES COMMAND AS 43RD GOC 3 DIVISION
…Urges Holistic Approach to Combat Crime in Plateau State
A significant milestone was achieved at the Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army as Major General Eyitayo Oyinlola officially assumed command as the 43rd General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the division. The ceremonial transition, which took place at the GOC’s Conference Room in Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, on Thursday 23 January 2025, featured senior military officials, Brigade Commanders, and dignitaries from various sectors, underscoring the importance of this leadership change in the region’s complex security landscape.
In his valedictory address, the outgoing GOC, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, welcomed Major General Oyinlola and highlighted the intricate nature of security challenges in Plateau State. “The security situation here is both complex and dynamic; it demands a multi-faceted strategy that includes both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches,” he stated. General Abubakar emphasized the necessity of not only engaging in combat operations against criminality and banditry but also mediating conflicts arising between agricultural communities, such as farmers and herders. “The operations in this region are inherently people-centric,” he remarked, expressing confidence in Major General Oyinlola’s ability to navigate these challenges effectively.
Major General Abubakar took the opportunity to express gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, (COAS) Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, NAM, for the trust placed in him during his tenure and acknowledged the invaluable support received from the government and security agencies in Plateau State. “Your collaboration has been instrumental in our efforts to ensure safety and security in the region. I urge you all to extend the same level of support to my successor,” he implored, reinforcing the importance of unity among security stakeholders.
In turn, Major General Oyinlola lauded his predecessor for his dedication and commitment to peace in Plateau State. “I intend to build upon the solid foundation laid by Major General Abubakar. The standards will not only be maintained but indeed improved upon,” he asserted, calling for an enhanced collaborative effort among all security stakeholders in the state to achieve lasting peace. By stressing the importance of unity and shared objectives, the new GOC signaled his intent to foster an inclusive approach to addressing security issues.
The transition ceremony was marked by several symbolic events, including the signing of handing and taking over notes, the presentation of the 3 Division insignia of command to the outgoing GOC, and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion. The ceremonial quarter guard drills added to the significance of this historic event, which is expected to set the tone for the new leadership era under Major General Oyinlola.
The need for a holistic approach to combat the pervasive threats of criminal activity and insecurity in Plateau State has never been more pressing. As communities grapple with the realities of banditry and inter-communal conflicts, the call for innovative strategies and enhanced collaboration among all stakeholders becomes paramount. Major General Oyinlola’s commitment to picking up from where his predecessor left off sets a hopeful tone for the region.
The leadership transition at the 3 Division Nigerian Army represents not only a change in command but also a renewed commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property in Plateau State.
MAJOR GENERAL OYINLOLA TAKES COMMAND AS 43RD GOC 3 DIVISION
Military
BREAKING – Gov Mutfwang’ Announces demise of LT Gen J T Useni, commiserates with Family
BREAKING – Gov Mutfwang’ Announces demise of LT Gen J T Useni, commiserates with Family
By: Our Reporter
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, deeply regrets to announce to the citizens of Plateau State and all patriotic Nigerians, the passing of the former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni.
The distinguished elder statesman passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at the age of 82, following a protracted illness.
In a statement in Jos signed by , Governor Mutfwang’s Director of Press and Public affairs ,the Governor described the passing of General Useni as a tremendous loss not only to his immediate family but also to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Plateau State, and the entire nation.
The Governor highlighted General Useni’s exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to service, which left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s security and political landscape. He noted that General Useni’s tireless efforts to promote peace and security, especially in Northern Nigeria and Plateau State, will forever be remembered.
Governor Mutfwang recounted the illustrious career of the late General, who served Nigeria with distinction in various capacities, including as Minister of Transport, Quarter-Master General of the Nigerian Army, and Minister of the FCT.
After retiring from the military, General Useni transitioned into politics, where he continued his service to the nation. He served as Deputy Chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and was elected Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District in 2015 under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
The Governor commended General Useni’s life of selfless service, noting his profound contributions to the military, politics, and his community. He emphasized that the General’s legacy of compassion, kindness, generosity, and dedication to the well-being of others will endure in the lives of those he impacted.
“On behalf of my family, the government, and the peace-loving people of Plateau State, I extend my deepest sympathies to the President, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the immediate family, and all those mourning the loss of this distinguished elder statesman,” Governor Mutfwang said.
He prayed that God grants the family, Plateau State, and the nation the strength and fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss. He also asked for God’s divine presence to comfort and provide solace in the days ahead.
BREAKING – Gov Mutfwang’ Announces demise of LT Gen J T Useni, commiserates with Family
-
News11 months ago
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions3 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
ACADEMICS11 months ago
A History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Columns11 months ago
Army University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
Opinions3 years ago
POLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
Opinions11 months ago
Tinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
-
National News11 months ago
Fraud and Mismanagement Rock INGO’s IDP Cash Assistance Effort in Bama
-
Opinions10 months ago
UMTH:…and the testimonies of patients and patient relations