Journalists in Rivers State have been strongly advised to maintain neutrality and stand with the people rather than politicians, in order to avoid sharing in the consequences awaiting those backing evil in society.

This admonition came from the pulpit on Sunday, April 13, 2025, during a Special Thanksgiving Service held to mark the end of the Correspondents’ Week organized by the Rivers State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

The service took place at Redemption Hall Model Parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Elelenwo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Delivering the sermon, Pastor Omolara Joseph, who oversees the Living Waters Zone under which the parish operates, prophesied the downfall of those responsible for the unrest in Rivers State, stating that the people only desire peace and freedom to pursue their lives.

Describing journalists as “watchmen of the nation,” she called on them to live by divine principles and maintain a heart of gratitude. She emphasized the risks they face in their line of duty, noting that stray bullets and political targeting are real dangers.

“Politicians will come for you when you don’t write their script, but they will not succeed because you bear the mark of Christ.”

“Make sure Satan finds nothing in your hands. Stand on the Lord’s side. A new level of glory comes with favour, victory, and safety. God will reveal the plans of the wicked to you, just as He did for Elisha.”

Pastor Joseph offered intense prayers for Rivers State and Nigeria, calling for the destruction of every force of hardship and demonic influence oppressing the people. She quoted Romans 8:37 to remind the congregation that “Rivers people shall triumph because they are more than conquerors.”

Focusing on the theme “New Level of Glory,” she explained the concept of glory, ‘Kabod’ in Hebrew as the weight of God’s presence. She lamented the state of the nation, declaring that Nigeria cannot rise if selfishness remains embedded in leadership. Drawing on the example of Dubai, she called for unity and a national reawakening.

To journalists, she gave a sobering charge, “Your work is delicate and risky. Use wisdom, stay impartial, and let your tribe or religion fade when holding the pen. Only truth should fill your mind and paper.”

She cautioned against becoming martyrs for a society that may forget them: “Don’t be a hero at the wrong time. If you fall, it is your family that will suffer first.”

To political leaders, she likened citizens to water in a calabash unstable yet essential, urging them to steady and not destroy the people.

“You’ll give account of your actions one day. Don’t destroy Nigeria for 2027. There’s eternal consequence for wickedness.”

The pastor urged journalists not to be tempted by political inducements, referencing Daniel and his companions who refused the king’s delicacies.

“Don’t trust the meat on the king’s table. Kings come and go. Run to God. Some who once oppressed are now in wheelchairs. Rivers has great men, but evil ones are overshadowing them.”

She warned against helping to turn Rivers into “a land that swallows its people,” calling on believers to repent, pray, and invoke God’s mercy to heal the land. Quoting 2 Chronicles 7:14, she urged collective repentance and spiritual awakening to rebuild a state torn by political turmoil and bloodshed.

Her prayers for the NUJ Correspondents included blessings of safety, prosperity, and career growth.

In his closing remarks, Amaechi Okonkwo, chairman of the Correspondents Chapel, expressed gratitude for a year of safe practice and a successful Press Week. He noted that the chapel carefully selects churches for thanksgiving and found a warm spiritual home in Redemption Hall Model Parish.

Also speaking, John Udochukwu Nwoha, Men’s President of the parish, expressed joy at hosting the journalists.

“We are very happy and privileged to have you today, wr know the kind of work you do, shining light in the midst of darkness. Politicians may want darkness to prevail, but we have prayed that your light will never go dim.”