Why we accept bus donation from Okpebholo – Edo PFN clarifies
Inside Edo
Benin, Edo — The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Edo State Chapter, has strongly defended its acceptance of a brand new bus donated by Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, describing the gesture as institutional support rather than any form of political compromise.
In a press statement issued by the State Secretary, Rev. Phil Arojie, the fellowship addressed public reactions, commentaries, and misconceptions surrounding the donation and appreciative remarks by its leaders.
The PFN clarified that the bus was donated to the Edo State Chapter as an institution to aid its programmes, outreach initiatives, administrative operations, and overall activities across the state. It emphasized that the vehicle should not be viewed as a personal gift to the State Chairperson, Pastor Dr. (Mrs) Margaret Oghosa Agbonifo.
The statement described Pastor Agbonifo, the first female PFN State Chairperson in Nigeria as a respected Christian leader whose position stems from years of sacrificial service, spiritual maturity, and dedication to the body of Christ, highlighting her key contributions, including promoting Christian unity, peace-building, and intercessory prayers for Edo State and Nigeria.
PFN maintained that engagement with government officials, corporate bodies, churches, and philanthropists is standard practice in pursuit of societal development and the advancement of God’s kingdom. Receiving support or donations in recognition of the fellowship’s contributions does not equate to political compromise, the body insisted.
The fellowship rejected suggestions that the donation would influence its position on public issues. It reiterated its commitment as a non-partisan Christian organisation focused on preaching the Gospel, fostering unity among believers, advocating righteousness, and praying for leaders regardless of political affiliation.
The clarification comes days after Pastor Agbonifo publicly testified about the donation during a recent event.
She said: “We are glad that God gave us not just a politician, but a child of God. I met Governor Okpebholo once and PFN has a testimony. The brand new bus you gave to us, we know it will cause jealousy.”
The statement further noted that Agbonifo has consistently acknowledged national challenges such as insecurity, economic hardship, and social instability, while calling for prayer, moral renewal, peaceful coexistence, and constructive engagement.
PFN reminded Christians of their biblical duty to pray for those in authority and contribute to the peace, stability, and prosperity of the nation.
It urged the public to avoid drawing conclusions from social media narratives or incomplete information, and instead judge individuals by their record of service and integrity.
This development underscores the ongoing collaboration between faith-based organisations and the Edo State Government under Governor Okpebholo, who has frequently engaged with Christian leaders on issues of governance, security, and development.
