Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
Anglican Bishop of Afikpo Diocese, Ebonyi State, Rev. Paul Udogu, yesterday condemned insecurity and communal clashes in some parts of the state.
Udogu said the Church was worried about the recent assassination and wasting of innocent blood in Isu community, Onicha Local Government Area of the state.
The Bishop spoke at the Church Cathedral, Afikpo, Afikpo North Local Government Area of the state during his charge at the 6th Synod of the Church.
He noted that the traditional ruler of Isu community in the state, HRH Ambrose Ogbu was kidnapped six months ago and has not been released till today.
Udeogu disclosed that the President General of the community, palace Secretary of the community and some other prominent members of the community have been assassinated.
“The people of Isu are living in serious fear as many people have migrated to safe areas. Nobody can say exactly what is happening at Isu.
“We call upon the David Umahi-led Ebonyi State Government to use her instruments of power to discover the remote and immediate causes of the Isu trouble and proffer solution to the problem. We also appeal to the perpetrators of this act to lay down their arms and use dialogue to resolve whatever is the problem.
“The Isinkwo-Abaomege crisis is still lingering. We are happy that soldiers are stationed there now. However, there is still need for government to proffer a lasting solution and bring reconciliation between the warring communities of Isinkwo and Abaomege,” he said.
The Bishop described the 2023 general election as crucial to the survival of Nigeria as a nation.
“This election is not a matter of party or tribe. The Nigeria electorate must be ready to vote for integrity and character; vote for people who have record of godly leadership and who have the capacity to handle the mess in our community; vote for people who are sensitive to the sufferings and oppression of Nigerians.
“We need a National rebirth, we need a new Nigeria. These we can achieve by voting out of power corrupt politicians. Therefore, we charge all our members and Nigerians in general to make sure they collect their PVC, come out en masse to vote the right candidates.
“Do not sell your vote and mortgage our future and the future of our children. This is the time to fix Nigeria by voting credible leaders to oversee the affairs of our nation. Say no to money politics,” Udogu stated.
