Apostle Dr. John Okoriko, Founder and President of Solid Rock Kingdom Church, has applauded Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for signing an Executive Order prohibiting the public display of masquerades along streets and major roads across the state.
Governor Eno signed the Executive Order last week, effectively ending street and highway processions by masquerades. The directive triggered the arrest and prosecution of Ekpo masquerade performers, who were later discharged and acquitted by the court on the grounds of constitutional freedom of worship.
Speaking during the December edition of the church’s Monthly Interactive Service in Uyo, themed “Why Does God Allow People to Believe a Strong Delusion?”, Apostle Okoriko said he had long challenged Ekpo masquerade activities in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area. He recalled how, many years ago, masquerades invaded his church and disrupted worship sessions.
Okoriko described the belief in the Ekpo masquerade as one of the strongest cultural delusions in Akwa Ibom, noting that many people view it as a spiritual entity rather than a human-controlled practice. Reading from 2 Thessalonians 2:11, he explained that when people reject the truth, God permits them to embrace delusion.
“Every strong delusion is self-imposed and man-made,” he said. “God respects everyone’s desires. No one is forced by Satan or demons into delusion. Some delusions, however, can be influenced externally through peer groups, culture, or tradition.”
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The cleric noted that personal decisions play a major role in issues such as drug abuse and other forms of addiction, arguing that such habits persist only when individuals allow them to. He dismissed the widespread African belief that addictions are always caused by demonic forces, insisting that personal choices are often the root.
Responding to questions from online participants, Okoriko stressed the need for national repentance to overcome deep-seated cultural, religious, political, economic, and business-related delusions affecting Nigeria’s development.
“In China, there is a strong will to advance the nation through science and technology, but the situation is different here,” he said. “Nigeria needs courageous leadership that can inspire change despite prevailing delusions.”
Apostle Okoriko also invited Nigerians and Akwa Ibom residents to the 2025 Annual Convention of the Solid Rock Kingdom Church, themed “The Temple of His Body.” The event will hold from December 24–28 at West Itam Secondary School, Ikot Ekpene Road, Uyo, featuring extensive scriptural teachings aimed at deepening participants’ understanding.
