Some prominent Christian clerics have called for calm and understanding over the recent comments of President Donald Trump of America.

They urged Nigerians to realise that the statement from the American president was made in his capacity as a political leader and not as a head of any religious organisation.

The call is coming in the wake of Trump’s threat to invade Nigeria and cut aid over alleged Christian genocide.

President Bola Tinubu as well as several religious leaders have denied the claims and urged the US to rather assist in overcoming the present security challenges.

But Speaking at the 85th Annual International Conference and Convention of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church Worldwide in Oyo State, several senior ministers of the church said it was unnecessary for religious leaders in Nigeria to respond to Trump’s statement.

They noted that only President Bola Ahmed Tinubu or his aides should do so.

Special Apostle Moses Ademola Popoola, Director of Missions for the C&S Church, said Trump spoke purely as a statesman, not as a spiritual authority.

He cautioned clerics to avoid overreacting or turning the matter into a religious debate.

“The American president has every right to talk, and as religious leaders, we must be cautious about what we say. Trump spoke as a president, not as a religious leader. Only another president in this case, President Bola Tinubu should respond to him.

“Our duty as ministers is to pray for the nation and guide our people,” Popoola said.

He added that Nigeria’s challenges would only be solved through collective discipline, sincere prayers, and mercy towards one another, not through foreign intervention.

Special Apostle Femi Okutubo, Conference Publicity Secretary, for his part, emphasised the need for national unity and love among Nigerians.

He said that while there had been macro-level progress, more must be done to ensure that growth translates to relief for the common man.

“The message for Nigerians is that we must all work together in unity and love because our nation is going through a challenging time. With time, things will get better,” he said.

Baba Aladura Oluwasegun Rufai urged Christians to be fruitful in righteousness and to act as ambassadors of light in the world.

He dismissed fears that Trump’s remarks were a sign of hostility toward Nigeria, describing them as political expressions.

“Trump is erratic, but I don’t see him attacking Nigeria or his statement as a serious threat. Even if he ever acts, it will likely be in support of Nigeria’s fight against terrorism,” he noted.

In his address, Spiritual Father and Chairman of the C&S Worldwide, Prophet Emmanuel Alogbo, said the church remains committed to peace, unity, and national stability.

He called on Nigerians to continue supporting the government’s efforts to overcome insecurity and improve the welfare of citizens.

“Our country is gradually overcoming its socio-economic challenges. We must continue to pray for our leaders and our nation,” he said while declaring the conference open.

The event, themed Great Mercy, drew participants from across the world, both physically and through live streaming.

The church renewed its message of faith, unity, and compassion for the coming year. (Weekend Trust)