Don’t crucify Otabil – Says Peace Council chairman

Chairman of the Peace Council, Reverend Professor Emmanuel Asante, has advised Ghanaians against unduly criticizing Pastor Mensa Otabil, General Overseer of International Central Gospel Church (ICGC).

Dr. Otabil has done nothing wrong to deserve insults from the people, especially in the media, he said.

Dr. Otabil has been vilified by section of the populace after he told his congregation that disaster could befall the country in a month’s time.

The ICGC leader, after his revelation, led his church members to fervently pray to God to forestall any calamity that could hit the country.

Some critics have argued that Dr. Otabil’s declaration would cause fear and panic among the citizenry.

But speaking on Kessben FM, a radio station in Kumasi, Rev Prof Asante, who is also the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church, stated that Dr. Otabil’s revelation in church was normal.

He said men of God usually lead their congregation to pray for the country whenever they see something bad in the spiritual realm.

Rev Asante could not fathom why some people were lambasting Pastor Otabil for “declaring peace and prosperity for Ghana.”

He added that the media should not discuss the spiritual matter.

The Peace Council Chairman reiterated that “Dr. Otabil did not do anything wrong; as a man of God he led his congregation to pray for God’s intervention so that peace will reign in the country. As Christians, we offer this prayer at every election year.”

Prof. Asante stated emphatically that Dr. Otabil’s revelation and eventual prayer for peace to reign in Ghana could not create fear and panic among the populace.

“His prayer for God’s intervention for peace to reign in Ghana should give the people hope that the Almighty God is in control of the country so nothing bad would befall Ghana.

“We have one Ghana so we should all contribute to protect the country’s peace.”

He entreated the media to preach peace, especially as the Supreme Court is set to conclude the hearing of the election petition.