The Anglican Bishop of Afikpo Diocese, Ebonyi state, Rev. Paul Udogu, weekend condemned insecurity and communal clashes in some parts of the state.
Udogu said the church was worried about the recent assassination and waste of innocent blood in the Isu community, Onicha local government area of the state.
Udogu stated this during the 6th synod of the Basilica of Grace Cathedral church, Afikpo, Afikpo North local government area of the state.
The bishop lamented that the traditional ruler of the Isu community, HRH Ambrose Ogbu, was kidnapped six months ago and has not been released till today.
And that the president general of the community, the palace secretary of the community, and some other prominent members of the community were assassinated.
He said: “The people of Isu living in serious fear as many people have migrated to safe areas. Nobody can say exactly what is happening at Isu.l
“We call upon 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 a 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 a need for government to proffer a lasting solution and bring reconciliation between the warring communities of Isinkwo and Abaomege,” said.
The Bishop described the 2023 general elections as crucial to the survival of Nigeria as a nation.
“This election is not a matter of party or tribe. Nigeria’s electorate must be ready to vote for integrity and character, vote for people who have records of godly leadership and who can handle the mess in our community, and vote for people who are sensitive to the suffering and oppression of Nigerians,” Udogu stated.