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Tag: #Fred Abua

  • God Doesn’t Want Your Tithe; He Wants All You Have! BY FRED ABUA

    God Doesn’t Want Your Tithe; He Wants All You Have! BY FRED ABUA

     

    For over twenty years, I’ve preached and taught that tithing is not a Christian practice. When I first made a vocal stand against this principle, some people left the church because they believed that I had suddenly become a heretic. Some stayed but assumed my stance meant they no longer needed to give at all. This reaction was disheartening, revealing a deep-seated adherence to dogma rather than an openness to biblical truth. I felt more so because some of these men and women, who I believed had trusted my teachings for so long – and should have known my heart – ignored the wealth of evidence supporting my new position.

    Jesus never espoused the doctrine of tithing. Paul, despite dedicating two chapters (II Corinthians. 8,9) to the subject of giving in the church, never mentioned tithing – which you could say would have been a surer way of getting money from the believers. None of the apostles promoted it.

    In Acts 5, when Ananias and Sapphira lied about their giving, they were struck dead. This incident underscores God’s demand for full accountability, not just for 10%, but for 100% of what we have.

    A Christian must be accountable for all their wealth, whether it is spent for education, medical expenses, housing, helping the poor, or supporting their church/minister. The New Testament provides no basis for the modern practice of tithing. Instead, it emphasizes freewill offerings.

    This giving that has become a hot topic in Christianity is clearly driven by greed and survival instincts. Only the seminaries founded by these prosperity teachers offer ‘Giving’ as a course. It is not taught in any of the conventional Bible Colleges as a course. It was only when I decided to drop the inherited dogma about giving that I learned from my father’s denomination that I began to see clearly those issues I had not asked questions about. It was then I understood what the tithing system in the Old Testament was all about. It was then I learned what the true biblical stance on Christian giving ought to be.

    Tithing in the New Testament
    The New Testament does not command Christians to tithe. The few mentions of tithing are historical references, often critical of the practice:
    Jesus criticized the Pharisees for their tithing practices (Matthew 23:23).
    A Pharisee bragged about his tithing in Luke 18:9-14.
    Hebrews 7:5-10 mentions Abraham’s one-time tithe to Melchizedek, a freewill act from the spoils of war, not a recurring practice.

    It is curious how the New Testament, largely written by practicing Jews who were familiar with Old Covenant laws, never commands tithing for Christians. If tithing were necessary, surely it would have been mentioned when discussing giving, especially in II Corinthians 8,9. But it was was not!

    Old Testament Tithing
    Old Testament tithing was a tax system for Israel, a theocratic nation. Jews paid three taxes/tithes:
    1. The Levites’ Tithe: An annual 10% tax on all they produced. It was used to support the Levites, who had no land inheritance and so no other source of income (Leviticus 27:30-33, Deuteronomy 14:22-29).
    2. Festival Tithe: An annual tax to fund religious festivals (Deuteronomy 14:22-27).
    3. Poor Tithe: A tax/tithe that was paid every three years to support the poor (Deuteronomy 14:28-29).

    These taxes/tithes totaled about 23.33% annually, plus additional taxes like the temple tax and requirements to leave fields unharvested for the poor to glean (Leviticus 19:9). Non-Jewish believers were never subjected to these tithes. The Jerusalem Council that deliberated what aspects to require from Gentile Christians said “It is the decision of the Holy Spirit and of us not to place on you any burden beyond these necessities.…” They then only required the Gentile Christians (that is, us) to abstain from certain practices such as abstaining from foods sacrificed to idols, from blood, from strangled animals, and from sexual immorality (Acts 15:28-29).

    New Testament Giving
    The New Testament pattern of giving aligns with the Old Testament practice of freewill offerings. Unlike taxes, freewill offerings are voluntary and motivated by grace and love. In II Corinthians 8-9, Paul commended the Macedonian church, which gave generously despite their severe poverty.

    In this passage, the believers are instructed (in 9:7) that each person should give as they have decided in their heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion. This directive emphasizes internal motivation over external obligation. Giving is a matter of the heart, not the wallet. If God has our hearts, He will have our wallets (Matthew 6:21).

    But a preacher who wants to control your wallet will not let you think about the biblical basis for the position in this writeup.

    Conclusion
    Freedom from Old Testament tithing is not freedom to give less. It is freedom to give in ways that reflect our love for God and the gratitude in our hearts. Our giving should mirror the sacrificial love God showed by sending His Son. We are free to make love offerings, not just pay a religious tax.

    If this knowledge makes you give less, then you were never motivated by grace but fear or greed. I say this because many Christians give so that God will protect what they have left while others give so that God can multiply what they have left! Both positions are funny and unbiblical. We give because God has already blessed us!

    I will publish Part 2 soon. Selah

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Fred Abua, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Children Carnival Dry Run: Peter Odey Commends Onari Duke’s Contribution To Calabar Carnival

    Children Carnival Dry Run: Peter Odey Commends Onari Duke’s Contribution To Calabar Carnival

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has expressed his appreciation for Mrs. Onari Duke’s significant contribution to the development of Carnival Calabar. Hon. Odey, emphasizing the importance of giving credit where it is due, conveyed this sentiment on the 17th of December, 2023, during the flag-off of the dry run for the children’s carnival in Calabar.
    Rt. Hon. Odey also extended an invitation to the former First Lady to participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

    Prior to the ribbon-cutting, Mrs. Onari Duke urged parents to encourage their children’s participation in the children’s carnival on the 27th of December, assuring them that the event would not promote negative habits. She expressed her delight in the revival of the children’s carnival after a pause of several years and highlighted the economic advantages that awaited Cross Riverians, with an influx of visitors to the city during the carnival.

    During the event, the Chairman of the Carnival Commission, Mr. Gabe Onah, conveyed his invitation for everyone to witness the pure joy and innocence reflected in the children, stating “This is what Carnival Calabar is offering to the world, as the entire botanic garden has been taken over by this great colors, the color of warmth and the color of love. What is the color of love? Childhood.”
    He also welcomed the Deputy Governor to join the children for a walk, mentioning that the 6-kilometer dry run was conducted to test the system.

  • Deputy Governor Peter Odey Disclaims Fraudulent Facebook Account

    Deputy Governor Peter Odey Disclaims Fraudulent Facebook Account

    PRESS STATEMENT FROM THE OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY GOVERNOR

    SUBJECT: DISCLAIMER ON IMPERSONATION AND FRAUDULENT FACEBOOK ACCOUNT

    It has come to our attention that some unscrupulous individuals have again created a fake Facebook account (Hon Peter Agbe Odey) impersonating the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey and attempting to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.

    The general public is hereby informed that the Deputy Governor is not involved in any employment or scholarship programmes, neither is he facilitating other benefits as the impersonators promise while requesting payments from unsuspecting members of the public. The fraudster using the name ‘Dr. Jacob Agi Isaac’ and Phone No. 09044605770.

    I wish to categorically and unequivocally dissociate Rt. Hon. Peter Odey and the Office of the Deputy Governor from these malicious activities being carried out by petty criminals, and to condemn in the strongest possible terms all attempts by these fraudsters attempting to deceive and exploit innocent citizens, not minding the harsh economic realities our country is experiencing at this time.

    The public should take notice that Rt. Hon. Peter Odey and his office have never and will never request payments, no matter how small, through social media platforms nor will he transact any government business through any unofficial channels. Extreme caution and vigilance should be exercised in verifying the authenticity of any communication claiming to be the Deputy Governor or from his Office before taking any action or providing personal information while interacting on social media and other online platforms.

    We value the trust placed in us by the public and will take every necessary step to protect the interests of our citizens and the Office of the Deputy Governor remains committed to serving the people of Cross River State with transparency, integrity, and accountability.

    E-Signed:

    Fred Abua, Esq
    Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor
    Cross River State

  • Gov Otu Begins Plans Towards Carnival Calabar 2023

    Gov Otu Begins Plans Towards Carnival Calabar 2023

    By Fred Abua, Esq

    Carnival Calabar an event that showcases the cultural heritage of Cross River State and Nigeria at large is 21 Years Old.

    The State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, recently received a team of Turkish Investors interested in investing in the Carnival Calabar. The Governor said “after 20 years, Carnival Calabar, like any other longstanding investment was due for rejigging, relaunching and reimagining .”

    The Turkish team of investors which met separately with the Governor and the Deputy Governor went on an inspection tour of the 12km Carnival Route with the Chairman of the Tourism and Culture Cluster of the Transition Committee, Mr. Gabe Onah, and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture and Tourism Development, Mrs. Eme Afiah. The group was accompanied by the Director of Tourism, Mr. Ekpenyong Ojoi, Mr. Thomas Ikpeme, Mr. Mathias Amgba, amongst others.

    The Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, who later received the visiting team in his office in the company of the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem and the Member representing Akamkpa 2 State Constituency, Hon. Linus Etim, said Calabar Carnival was the most colorful in the world comparable only to that of Brazil.

    Hon. Odey assured the Turkish team of their security and the Governor’s commitment to ensuring that Cross River regains her place as Number 1 Tourism Destination in Nigeria.

    He said Cross River State was the most welcoming group of people in the world while eulogizing the Head of the Culture and Tourism Cluster, Mr. Gabe Onah who had sold the Carnival to the world and led the brand for more than 16 years.

    Agreeing with the earlier position of the Governor, Hon. Odey said it was time to move the Carnival Calabar brand from its routine to the next level and expressed faith that the partnership would ensure that the 2023 carnival is the best ever.

    Speaking at the event, Mr. Gabe Onah, presented the team from GL Events who he said were in Calabar to introduce the hidden areas that will make the brand self-sustaining to achieve its primary objectives and opined that after 21 years, Carnival Calabar had come of age. He expressed confidence in GL Events who had organized global events including the African Nations Cup.

    He said carnival bands were private sector-driven and ought to be self-sponsoring; this innovation will ensure that the bands stop depending on Government.

    Accompanied by Mr Ikechi Uko , the consultant to the international carnival , Ms Umran Alinak and Seda Diker, representatives of GL Events said they had come to Calabar to inspect and tell the story of Carnival Calabar by themselves. They added that a larger team would return to Calabar by September to prepare for the Carnival in December.

    Diker promised that their group was ready to make Carnival Calabar global having organized events like the world cup and the likes of the Super Ball.

    In his comments , the organizer of Akwaba Africa Travel Market , Mr Ikechi Uko observed that, from all indications, Carnival Calabar 2023 has the potential to maintain her lead as the foremost cultural event in Nigeria after Afrobeat and Nollywood to open up Nigeria in positive ways beyond Africa to the whole world.

     

  • We Will Double Efforts To Ensure Prof Ekanem’s Release – Odey

    We Will Double Efforts To Ensure Prof Ekanem’s Release – Odey

    By Fred Abua, Press Secretary to Deputy Governor 

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has provided reassurance to members of the Nigerian Medical Association that the government is fully committed to securing the release of Prof. Ekanen Philip-Ephraim from her abductors. Rt. Hon. Odey expressed the Governor’s and the security agencies’ unwavering dedication since the news of the abduction emerged, acknowledging the pain and psychological trauma experienced by the kidnapped doctor’s family.

    In response to the concerns raised by the Nigerian Medical Association, the Deputy Governor pleaded for patience, assuring them that the government is exerting every effort to ensure the safe return of the victim. He emphasized that security holds a prominent position in the administration’s agenda, as highlighted in the Governor’s inaugural address.

    The Chairman of the Cross River State Chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association, Dr. Felix Archibong, who led the delegation to express their deep concern over the abduction of their colleague appreciated the Governor and Deputy Governor’s prompt response to the association. Dr. Archibong also expressed worry that it had been over 72 hours since the doctor’s kidnapping and appealed to the government to expedite the response of the state’s security agencies to secure Prof. Ekanem’s swift release.

    Brig. Gen. E. I. Okoro, Commander of the 13th Brigade of the Nigerian Army, urged the doctors to reconsider their plan to proceed on strike. He highlighted that Dr. Archibong had already acknowledged the government’s proactive approach to security. Brig. Gen. Okoro emphasized that a strike would only embolden criminals and make doctors vulnerable targets in the future.

    The meeting was attended by Commissioner of Police, CP Gyonon Grimah, Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. John Sokoya, and the State Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Okoi Ubi Obono (Rtd).

  • Deputy Governor Pledges Youth Inclusion In Government

    Deputy Governor Pledges Youth Inclusion In Government

    By Fred Abua

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has assured members of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, of the administration’s commitment to youth inclusion in governance. During the visit which held in his office on Wednesday, July 12th, 2023, Hon. Odey emphasized that although the administration might not appoint a large number of individuals to office, its agricultural programs would positively impact a significant portion of the state’s population.

    Hon. Odey expressed the view that young people should position themselves for leadership as a good number of youths will take up key positions in the Government, stating that young people like Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong and Dr. Betta Edu who both hold national positions were propelled into the limelight when they distinguished themselves while holding executive positions in Cross River State as youths.

    Expressing his commitment to the group, the Deputy Governor assured them that their constituency would receive due attention during the current administration. He also lamented the prevalence of election petitions and shared his personal experiences of facing defeat in previous elections. Each setback, he emphasized, became an opportunity to regroup and re-strategize.

    Hon. Odey revealed to the group that he gave early support for the “Back-To-South” campaign unaware at the time that he would eventually be chosen as the Deputy Governor. He assured the youths of his intention to extend similar support to other zones when their time comes.

    Speaking earlier, the State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Comrade Dan Obo, who led the delegation reiterated the support of his group, stating that the youths had supported the “Back to South” agenda and were now poised to support the “Back to Us” agenda which aims to place more young individuals in prominent government positions

    The Speaker of the Youth Parliament, Rt. Hon. Victor Kijuo, and the Chairman of the State Advisory Council, Comrade Ndiyo Ndiyo, expressed their satisfaction with having a youth serving as the Deputy Governor of Cross River State. They expressed their gratitude and pledged to continue seeking the Deputy Governor’s guidance. They emphasized that while election success is significant, the true measure of achievement lies in the actions and accomplishments during the government’s tenure.

    The event, which was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youths and Skills Acquisition, Dr. Sam Egbala, featured the singing of the solidarity song “Aluta” and the presentation of an award by the National Youth Council of Nigeria.

  • Introducing Pastor Fred Abua Esq (AIAGP)

    Introducing Pastor Fred Abua Esq (AIAGP)

     

    Barrister Fred Abua, JP, is a highly skilled professional with a diverse range of experiences in writing, communication, coaching, social work, and law. His career journey took a new turn in 2015 when he was appointed by Senator Professor Ben Ayade as Special Assistant (Media). Over time, Fred’s responsibilities expanded, and he assumed various designations including Senior Special Assistant (Media), Press Secretary to the First Lady, and ultimately Special Adviser (Corporate Communications) in the Office of the First Lady. Throughout these positions, he also served as the Speechwriter to the First Lady, crafting impactful messages on her behalf and managing her social media accounts.

    Fred is an esteemed member of the Board of Trustees of the Mediatrix Development Foundation (MDF), an NGO founded by Dr. Linda Ayade. Within this role, he demonstrates exemplary human resource management skills by overseeing a team of about 30 staff. He also serves as the Secretary of the Board and, utilizing his expertise as a Media Advisor, he played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Mediatrix Magazine, a periodic publication that highlights the foundation’s initiatives, and he was instrumental in developing engaging content for the MDF website.

    Fred wrote a column for the Nigerian Chronicle called ‘Open Mystery’ in 2012 and hosted a music and talk radio show ‘Touch the Power’ on Cross River Broadcasting Corporation (CRBC) before then. Beyond his contributions in the realm of media and communications, Fred is also an accomplished author and ghostwriter. He has penned numerous published and yet-to-be-published Christian and secular books, including works such as “Omale’s Dream”, “How the Devil Whips Us”, “Straight Talk to Jacqueline”, “The Whole Truth”, and “Finishing Strong”, a biographical sketch of his father, Rev. J.A.O. Abua, published by Arbi Press, USA, in 2012. Fred’s passion for writing extends to his involvement on the editorial board of various publications. Notably, he served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Mediatrix Magazine, an esteemed role he held during the tenure of former First Lady of Cross River State, Dr. Linda Ayade.

    Prior to his government service, Fred made a significant impact in the realm of ministry. He served as a Teacher and Nigerian Coordinator of Bible Training for Church Leaders (BTCL), a program designed to provide comprehensive seminary-standard training to church leaders who lacked formal biblical education prior to entering ministry. Additionally, he held pastoral positions, serving as a Pastor-Teacher at Rockhouse Bible Church in Calabar and Grace Bible Church in Port Harcourt. He also did stints in short-term missions to Ghana and many remote locations within Nigeria.

    With his rich background in communications, content creation, theatre arts, image management, pastoral ministry, humanitarian service, and law, Fred will bring value to any team. Currently, he serves as the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey.

    Fred, an Associate of the International Academy for Gender and Peace (AIAGP), is happily married to Omaji, and they are blessed with four children – a girl and three boys.

  • Meet My Boss, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Peter Odey BY FRED ABUA

    Meet My Boss, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Peter Odey BY FRED ABUA

    MEET MY NEW BOSS, HIS EXCELLENCY, RT. HON. PETER ODEY

    His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, a distinguished statesman, was born in Ogoja, Cross River State, in the early 70s. He served two terms as a member and leader of the Cross River State House of Assembly from 2015 to 2023 when he was elected Deputy Governor.

    Prior to the commencement of his political career, Rt. Hon. Odey held a significant role as a Conflict Adviser at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), working in Kuwait, Sudan, and Nigeria. He also served as the Head of Risk Management and Security at the Foreign Office in the British High Commission, displaying his expertise in global affairs.

    The astute yet unassuming politician holds two Bachelor’s degrees from the University of Calabar, one in Sociology and the other in Civil Law. He also holds two Masters’ degrees in Political Sociology from the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium, and International Relations with specialization in Peace and Conflict Resolution from the London Metropolitan University. He is currently at the concluding stages of a PhD in Peace Studies and Conflict Management.

    With his multidisciplinary background in sociology, law, international relations, and conflict resolution, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey seems to be exceptionally prepared for his role and is clearly an outstanding choice for the position of Deputy Governor. His diverse educational pursuits have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the pertinent issues in governance and public policy, and the people of Cross River State can expect great things from his wealth of knowledge.

    Another notable strength of Hon. Peter Odey lies in his extensive experience. Having served as a lawmaker for eight years and worked as a conflict adviser at a respected UN agency, he has gained invaluable knowledge and skills that position him as a competent leader.

    His wealth of experience, exposure, and academic standing provide this polished, vibrant and loyal leader with the necessary tools to contribute to the progress and development of the state. Rt. Hon. Peter Odey will add value to the leadership of His Excellency, Senator Bassey Otu, who himself is also a sociologist and a lawmaker with 12 years in the National Assembly. Senator Bassey Otu’s years in banking and the petroleum industry will all come to play to bring to realization his People-First agenda for Cross River State.

    It is both my honor and privilege to serve on this team for the good of our dear state.

    Fred Abua, Esq
    Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor,
    Cross River State

  • Margaret Inde Hosts Interactive Session For Cross River Urban To Rural Women Mentorship Programme In Obanliku

    Margaret Inde Hosts Interactive Session For Cross River Urban To Rural Women Mentorship Programme In Obanliku

    By John Akpo

    The Executive Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Council, Evang. Hon Mrs. Margaret Inde today played host to Her Excellency, Dr (Mrs) Linda Ayade as she held interactive session with Obanliku maidens, women, widows and others at the Council Secretariat in Sankwala.

    Dr. Linda Ayade who was represented by the Special Adviser, Cross River State Water Board LTD and Coordinator, Cross River Urban to Rural Women Mentorship Program, Hon. Agnes Atsu (JP) and Mr Fred Abua, the Press Secretary to her Excellency said this meeting was the first major interface with the 200 beneficiaries of the mentorship and empowerment program designed for young women.

    Receiving the team on behalf of Hon Margaret Inde, the First Lady and the Obanliku CROWEI Ambassador, Mrs Victoria Ugbe, along with the CROWEI Coordinator, Obanliku Chapter, Mrs Ulam thanked Dr (Mrs) Linda Ayade for matching her words with action.

    She expressed her sincere appreciation and happiness for Her Excellency choosing to commence the pilot phase of this laudable initiative in Obanliku.

    The Ambassador assured that Obanliku will ensure a smooth implimentation and sustainability of the program.

    Recall that on the 7th May, 2021, Her Excellency, Dr. (Mrs.) Linda Ayade Inaugurated the State Exco for her new programme, CROWEI Urban To Rural Women Support Initiative Programme (CRU2RWI) with Hon. Agnes Atsu (JP) as State Coordinator with a charge to commence the pilot phase at Obanliku Local Government Area immediately.

    Today, Obanliku maidens, widows and others gathered at the Council Secretariat Sankwala from their various wards for an interactive session with the State Coordinator and her team.

    Speaking during the interactive session, the State Coordinator, Hon Agnes Atsu (JP) appreciated all participants and encouraged all to take advantage of the opportunity to better their life thereby fullfiling destiny

    Hon Atsu stressed that unlike other empowerment programs that has no good follow up, the organizers of this one will ensure proper monitoring and evaluation, hence plans are already on ground.

    In her words “Her Excellency is committed to ensure an implimentation of sustainable empowerment where beneficiaries can leverage on and create fortunes for themselves and their families”

    “We are aware, that many are here to get this empowerment, sell whatever would be given and return to their normal life, I assure you, we will drive you through a training process after which you will now be empowered”

    Also speaking at the occasion, the Press Secretary to her Execellency, Mr Fred Abua who also doubles as the Committee Secretary briefed the participants on the need for all to show seriousness and follow every step of the training.

    He also noted that “empowering women is very vital in every society especially like ours, if the society must experience rapid development, hence the idea of Her Excellency, Dr Linda Ayade”

    At the meeting, Hon Agnes Atsu informed the participants that very soon a team of trainers shall come and will take the participants on various entrepreneurial skills, trade and lots more.