Edo begins 14-day fasting, prayers for divine protection, direction

BENIN CITY – The Edo State Government has called on Christian faithful, religious leaders and residents of the state to participate in a 14-day fasting and prayer exercise for divine protection, direction and wisdom as the state enters the 2026 ember months.

The exercise, scheduled to hold from Sept. 1 to Sept. 14, will run daily from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters and Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, Apostle (Dr.) Sule Faraday Azekhumen, made the call in a special announcement issued in Benin City.

Azekhumen said the exercise was aimed at bringing Christians and other spiritually conscious residents together in prayer for the continued preservation, protection and progress of Edo State.

He urged participants to particularly pray for divine direction and greater wisdom for Gov. Monday Okpebholo, members of his administration and the people of the state.

“As we enter the 2026 ember months, Apostle (Dr.) Sule Faraday Azekhumen, Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters and Chaplain, Government House Chapel, calls on all Christian faithful, religious leaders and spiritually conscious Edolites to join this powerful 14-day fasting and prayer exercise,” the announcement stated.

The exercise is anchored on selected Bible passages, including Psalm 35:13, Matthew 17:21 and Esther 4:16.

According to the announcement, the fasting period is expected to provide an opportunity for collective intercession for peace, security, good governance and divine guidance across the state.

Azekhumen encouraged residents who are physically able to undertake sectional dry fasting during the exercise, while others should participate according to their individual capacity.

He stressed the importance of unity and collective prayers, declaring that “when God’s people pray, God moves.”

The Special Adviser expressed confidence that sustained prayers would contribute to the peace, protection and progress of the state, adding that “Edo State is in God’s hands.”