The founder of Solid Rock Kingdom Church, Apostle John Okoriko, has expressed worry over the lifestyle of Nigerians who continue to indulge in lavish feasting and merrymaking despite the country`s gripping economic, political, and security challenges.

Speaking in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, the prominent tele-evangelist stated that the current realities facing the nation demand deep sober reflection rather than continuous celebrations. He urged citizens to immediately alter their approach to the national crisis by seeking divine intervention.

The cleric maintained that it is high time Nigerians entered a season of intensive fasting and prayers to provoke a total turnaround for the country. According to him, the combined spiritual and physical potency of fasting remains a tested remedy that the nation cannot afford to ignore at this critical juncture.

Delivering a sermon titled ‘Miracle of Fasting and Prayer’ during the church`s monthly interactive service, Okoriko explained that fasting offers immense benefits that transcend spiritual breakthroughs. He noted that the practice naturally promotes excellent health and facilitates the rapid renewal of body cells.

The Apostle, however, expressed great disappointment that many Christians and other citizens have remained insensitive to the environment. He regretted that high-octane partying and eating still thrive in communities where citizens are heavily burdened by economic lack and widespread insecurity.

"Unfortunately, Christians and other Nigerians continue in eating, feasting, and making merriment in the face of health, economic, and political challenges facing the nation," Okoriko lamented. "Christians should take advantage of fasting and prayer because the benefits are enormous."

The cleric also decried the rising controversies surrounding core biblical doctrines like fasting and tithing in contemporary times. He strongly condemned the growing trend where the sacred exercise of fasting is weaponised to fight perceived human enemies rather than seeking spiritual growth.

Apostle Okoriko further reprimanded religious leaders and parents who use fasting as a punitive tool for discipline. He criticized churches that force recalcitrant members to fast as punishment, as well as parents who starve disobedient children under the guise of fasting, declaring the practice totally wrong and unscriptural.