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NDYFGG President, Comr Ukueku
•Calls for inclusive recognition of true defenders of the faith
The National President of the Niger Delta Youth For Good Governance (NDYFGG), Comr. Lucky O.O. Ukueku, has appealed to the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to consider honouring Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo and the late Deborah Samuel in its 50th Anniversary Awards.
Comr. Ukueku, in a personally signed statement in Abuja, said he was moved to make the appeal after reviewing the list of honourees at the anniversary ceremony held on Saturday, October 19, 2026 at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.
According to the list circulating, the honourees include:
1. Sen. Oluremi Tinubu – First Lady of Nigeria
2. Gen. Yakubu Gowon (Rtd) – Former Head of State
3. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo – Former President
4. Dr. Goodluck Jonathan – Former President
5. Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN – Former Vice President
6. Sen. George Akume – SGF
7. Sen. Godswill Akpabio – President of the Senate
8. Hon. Benjamin Kalu – Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives
9. Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori – Governor of Delta State
10. Monday Okpebholo – Governor of Edo State
11. Engr. Seyi Makinde – Governor of Oyo State
12. Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd) – Minister of Defence
13. Festus Keyamo, SAN – Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development
14. Other dignitaries including Boss Mustapha, Ifeanyi Okowa and Prof. Jerry Gana were reported in attendance.
The ceremony was presided over by the President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, under the theme, “Walking Together in Faith.”
Comr. Ukueku noted that while the listed leaders have contributed to national development, the occasion presents an opportunity to also recognize those who have borne the brunt of persecution.
He said Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, Regional Chairman of COCIN, Barkin Ladi, Plateau State, has gained prominence for drawing global attention to the plight of Christian communities in the Middle Belt, including through his accounts of mass burials.
He also noted Deborah Samuel, the Christian student who lost her life in Sokoto State in May 2022, whose case remains a reference point in discussions on religious tolerance and the protection of Christians.
“As Christians, we must ensure our honours reflect both leadership and sacrifice. Recognizing voices like Rev. Dachomo and symbols like Deborah Samuel will inspire the younger generation and show that the Church remembers its own,” Comr. Ukueku said.
He added that awards should be seen to be based on impact and sacrifice, to encourage faith and unity.
Consequently, NDYFGG announced its decision to honour Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo as Best Pastor of the Year and Voice of the Voiceless Christians in Nigeria.
Comr. Ukueku respectfully called on the leadership of CAN, led by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, to consider expanding the honours list to include such critical persons in the spirit of inclusivity and encouragement.
