The General Evangelist of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Worldwide Prophet Hezekiah Oladeji has solicited government’s intervention in the development of religious tourist centres in Ekiti State to boost the spiritual and socio-economic activities of the people.
Prophet Hezekiah made the call on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to Governor Kayode Fayemi in his office in Ado – Ekiti as part of activities marking the Church’s three days revival programme in the State Capital.
He noted that provision of modern social amenities to some of the notable religious centers in the State would continue to attract religious tourists, who in return would contribute to development of economic activities in the State.
The Prophet, accompanied by some of Senior Pastors and officials of the Church, called for the rehabilitation of the sepulchre of the founder of the CAC, Apostle Ayo Babalola at Efon Alaaye to provide comfort for thousands of worshippers and tourists within and outside the country that throng the venue on regular basis.
He also appealed to the State Government for the construction of the road leading to the Prayer Mountain in Erio Ekiti to provide unhindered access to worshippers.
He said: “I have two requests to make, the first is that, we want the place where our father, Ayo Babalola is buried to be attractive. If you see the number of people that comes to Efon Alaaye to visit this centre you will agree with me that attention needed to be given to the place.
“My second request is that I appeal that you assist us to construct the road from Erio junction to Erio Mountain for ease of movement. That place is a tourism centre for us in Ekiti, that can contribute positively to the economic activities of the State.”
Responding, Governor Fayemi, applauded the contribution of the Ministry to the spiritual wellbeing of the people, with an assurance that attention would be given to the charlet of Apostle Ayo Babalola at Efon Alaaye to make the place attractive and comfortable to religious tourists and other worshippers.
He said the State Government would also provide assistance in the construction of the road that leads to Erio Mountain.
At the meeting, attended by the Secretary to the Government, Hon Biodun Oyebanji; Special Adviser Governor’s Office, Daramola Foluso; Chairman, Christian Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Elder Oladele Ayeni and a member of the board, Pastor Sesan David, prayers were offered for the governor, members of his cabinet, the state and the country as a whole.
