Date: 2021-02-12

Pastor Joshua Olusegun of Christ Reigns Church, Ilorin, on Thursday advised youths to celebrate responsibly on Feb.14 and not turn Valentine Day celebration to sex parties.

Olusegun gave the advice in Ilorin when he spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

He observed that most people thought Valentine Day celebration was a time to copulate with the opposite, and said the thought was not correct.

"It is not for sex parties as thought by many teenagers and youths. We can give out gifts, visit beautiful places around and as well care for one another as a sign of celebration.

"We need to erase the mentality of engaging in sexual acts to show love as widely believed by our youths. Don't plan to lose your virginity on Valentine's Day. There is more to Valentine.

"We can celebrate our love in a Godly manner and not necessarily drinking to stupor and involving in immoral acts with our loved ones," he cautioned.

The cleric emphasised the need for religious leaders to preach morality to their followers on the ethics of Valentine celebration.

He condemned the act of minors who engaged in immoral acts in the name of Valentine celebration, explaining that the celebration was only meant for matured minds.

Olusegun also noted that the celebration was not restricted to youths, but could be marked by couples in decent and disciplined manner.

He also called on parents to engage their children and wards on ethics of Valentine in order not to abuse the celebration. (NAN)