Arrested GMCN Cleric Appeals to Gov Kefas, SSG for Forgiveness Over Inciting Statements

The arrested Conference Superintendent of the Southern Nigeria Annual Conference of the Global Methodist Church in Nigeria (GMCN), Reverend Baziel Yoila, has appealed to Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, and the Secretary to the Government of the State (SGS), Barrister Timothy Gebon Kataps, to forgive him over what he described as an unguarded press interview he granted recently.

In a press statement signed by the cleric and made available to journalists in Jalingo, Reverend Yoila expressed deep regret over his actions, admitting that his comments were made in anger and emotion.

"After sober reflection, I totally regret the choice of words I used during my recent press conference," he said.

"I take full responsibility for my actions and admit that I spoke out of anger and emotions, a human weakness that does not excuse the consequences of my utterances."

The cleric apologized to Governor Agbu Kefas, the Secretary to the State Government, and members of the public who may have been hurt or disturbed by his comments.

"I sincerely apologize to His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, Executive Governor of Taraba State, for any embarrassment or administrative burden my actions may have caused the executive office, Chief Barr. G.T. Kataps, Secretary to the State Government, and members of the public who may have been hurt or disturbed by my words," the statement read.

Reverend Yoila stated that he holds the government and people of Taraba State in high esteem and remains committed to peace, unity, and lawful conduct.

He further acknowledged that his statements were capable of inciting tension, provoking unrest, and destabilizing the peace of the state, adding that some of the expressions used could be considered defamatory and may have caused pain, worry, and misunderstanding.

"In view of my sincere remorse, clear retraction, and commitment to peace, I humbly and respectfully appeal to the Taraba State Governor to kindly consider my plea and grant me clemency," he said.

The GMCN Conference Superintendent also pledged to conduct himself with greater caution, responsibility, and respect for constituted authority, stressing his desire to contribute positively to reconciliation and peaceful coexistence among all faith communities in Taraba State.