…Beckons on Obiano
By Abuchi Onwumelu
The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, His Lordship Most Rev. Dr. Paulinus Ezeokafor, has kicked against the recent ban on prayers in markets across the state by the leadership of Anambra State Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA), describing prayer as most important tool one can use to ask and receive favours from God as well as ward off evil machinations and manipulations.
Bishop Ezeokafor who stated this in a homily at Holy Trinity Catholic, Nanka, in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State during a thanksgiving Mass organized in the honour of member representing Orumba North/South Federal Constituency, Hon. Chief Okwudili Ezenwankwo (Ewepudike) said that importance of prayers in people’s lives could not be overstated.
The Catholic prelate emphasized that banning it would further distance those who believed in the efficacy of prayers from receiving God’s abundant blessings and grace, adding that a prayerful Christian remained a powerful Christian.
Bishop Ezeokafor called on the Executive Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency, Chief Willie Obiano to take a critical look at the decision taken by the ASMATA leadership and see how it could be reviewed, saying that such could not be heard from a Christian dominated State like Anambra.
“I appeal to Governor Willie to take a second look on the matter. I am happy he is here. I heard about the ban but I was not too happy about it. It is not in our best interest”, he stated.
Bishop Ezeokafor commended Governor Willie Obiano for what he had done so far in the state, especially in area of security of life and property of the citizenry, urging him to maintain the tempo.
“I thank him for what he has done so far to secure Ndi Anambra. I’m happy for him. I also want him to enhance the security network so that we will not witness what is happening in our neighbouring state here.
“Let us not allow the suspected Fulani herdsmen menace, incessant killings, kidnappings taking place in our neighbouring state to get to Anambra State. I want the governor to improve on his performance. I want to believe he is thinking towards that direction”, Bishop Ezeokafor urged.
The Cleric while extolling Governor Willie Obiano for the security architecture of the state, called on him to look at some roads in Anambra, which, he (Bishop Ezeokafor) said were in poor state, urging him to do something about them as to cushion the effect on Ndi Anambra
He called on elected public office holders to always remember their constituents, saying that the representatives were already made and therefore had no need storing up funds meant for the development of their areas and people.
“All of you are made. I see no reason why you should impoverish your people. Be accessible, help those who elected you. I call on leaders all over to lead with a human face. political leaders, religious leaders (I, inclusive), traditional rulers, presidents general, family heads to lead well”, Bishop Ezeokafor appealed.
Speaking, Governor Willie Obiano assured the bishop of his administration’s commitment in tackling some of the challenges he enumerated, saying that his administration was building more quality roads and would give every deplorable road in Anambra a facelift.
For his part, the member representing Orumba North/ South Federal Constituency, Chief Okwudili Ezenwankwo thanked God for the grace to be alive to celebrate with his constituents, political associates, friends and well-wishers.
He described the day as best day of his life.
Award presentation, group photographs formed the highpoints of the occasion.
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