Pastor urges prayers over erratic rainfall

From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

The General Overseer of Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry, Kaduna, Pastor Dr. Yohanna Buru, has called on Nigerians to engage in continuous prayers and fasting to seek divine intervention over this year’s unpredictable rainfall, which he says threatens agriculture, food security, and livelihoods nationwide.
Speaking with journalists in Kaduna, Pastor Buru urged both Christian and Muslim leaders to guide their congregations in prayer, noting that the current rainfall pattern extends beyond climate change and environmental degradation.
He partly blames the irregular rains on the rising levels of bloodshed, violence, and other atrocities across the country.
“The land is angry because of the innocent blood being shed.
Human beings have offended God in many ways, and there is a need for sincere repentance and a return to righteousness,” the cleric said.
He called on religious leaders, government officials, and citizens to unite in praying to God for mercy, forgiveness, and abundant rainfall.
While emphasizing the spiritual response, Pastor Buru stressed that practical actions must go hand in hand with prayer.
He urged governments at all levels to bolster tree-planting efforts, combat deforestation, promote environmental conservation, and support farmers with irrigation facilities to reduce reliance on seasonal rains.
The cleric also called on security agencies and community leaders to collaborate in reducing violence, banditry, and communal conflicts.
According to him, peace and stability are vital for national development and for farmers to access their lands without fear.
Pastor Buru further urged Nigerians to protect the environment by avoiding indiscriminate tree felling, bush burning, and improper waste disposal, which he says accelerates environmental degradation.
He recommended that farmers adopt modern farming techniques, water-conservation measures, and climate-smart agricultural practices to adapt to changing weather patterns.
He highlighted that genuine repentance, peaceful coexistence, justice, compassion, and respect for human life are crucial for attracting God’s blessings and restoring harmony between humanity and nature.
The cleric concluded by calling on all Nigerians to dedicate time to prayer and fasting while actively supporting efforts to protect the environment, foster peace, and promote sustainable agricultural development across the country.