By Our Correspondent
Reverend Father Ejike Mbaka has publicly dismissed claims that he attempted to block evangelist Ebuka Obi from hosting a programme at the Enugu State Stadium, stating that he has no personal grievance against the younger preacher.
Speaking on the matter, Mbaka said reports suggesting hostility between them were unfounded. He maintained that his focus remains on spiritual work and the mission of winning souls for Christ, rather than engaging in competition with fellow ministers. Calling on God as his witness, the cleric said he holds no ill will toward Ebuka Obi.
The priest recalled that Ebuka Obi had previously maintained a close relationship with him and regularly attended programmes at the Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria, where he was regarded as a spiritual son. According to Mbaka, Ebuka had at one time referred to him as a spiritual father, making the recent breakdown in communication between them surprising.
Mbaka explained that after returning from a period of suspension by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Enugu, he made several attempts to reach Ebuka but received no response. However, he said the situation took a different turn when a mutual associate, identified as Nna Nna, placed a call to Ebuka and the evangelist answered immediately. Mbaka said the incident left him wondering why his own efforts to reconnect had gone unanswered.
Addressing speculation surrounding the programme at the stadium, Mbaka also questioned claims that the absence of the Peter Mbah, Governor of Enugu State, signaled opposition to the event. He noted that there was no indication that the governor had received a formal invitation to attend.
The cleric used the opportunity to caution against turning ministry into a contest over influence, crowd size, or public recognition. According to him, the purpose of Christian gatherings is to invoke the Holy Spirit and draw people closer to Christ, not to create suspicion or rivalry among ministers.
In his closing remarks, Mbaka shared a proverb as guidance for younger leaders in ministry. He urged Ebuka Obi to act with wisdom in his calling and avoid actions that could deepen division within the Christian community.
“A son who hopes to inherit the throne must not destroy his father’s honour to win favour,” he said.
