Rev. Bazel Yoila
Superintendent of the Southern Nigeria Annual Conference of the Global Methodist Church in Nigeria (GMCN), Rev. Bazel Yoila, has tendered a public apology to Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, and the Secretary to the State Government, Gibon Katabs, following what he described as “unguarded and emotional” remarks made during a recent press briefing.
Yoila, who was earlier arrested by the Department of State Security Service (DSS) and arraigned before a magistrate court in Jalingo, before being remanded in custody, expressed regret over comments linked to the Taraba State Government’s decision to grant the United Methodist Church access to the Jatutu Memorial Cathedral for a reconciliation service.
In a personally signed statement made available to journalists on Monday, the cleric admitted that his comments were inappropriate and driven by emotion.
“After sober reflection, I totally regretted the choice of words I used during my recent press conference.
I take full responsibility for my actions and I admitted that I spoke out of anger and emotions as a human weakness that does not excuse the consequences of my utterances.
“I deeply regret allowing my emotions to override wisdom and restraint and I sincerely apologize to His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, Executive Governor of Taraba State for any embarrassment or administrative burden this has caused the Executive office.
“Chief Barr. GT Kataps, Secretary to the State Government and members of the public who may have been hurt or disturbed by my words,” the statement said.
Yoila, further, stated that he holds the government and people of Taraba State in high regard and remains committed to peace, unity, and lawful conduct.
According to him, he has come to realise that his statements were capable of inflaming tensions and threatening public peace.
“I acknowledge that my statements were capable of inciting tension, provoking unrest, and destabilizing the peace of Taraba State and also recognize that certain expressions used in that interview could be considered defamatory in nature and may have caused significant pain, worry, and misunderstanding,” he said.
Appealing for leniency, the cleric pledged to exercise greater restraint in future public engagements.
“In view of my sincere remorse, clear retraction, and commitment to peace, I humbly and respectfully appeal to the Taraba State Governor to kindly consider my plea and grant me clemency.
“I pledged to conduct myself henceforth with greater caution, responsibility, and respect for constituted authority.
“My desire is to contribute positively to reconciliation and peaceful coexistence among all faith communities in Taraba State,” the statement added.
