OWERRI — Indigenes of oil-rich Awarra in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State have deserted their community, following raging war between two cult groups, De-Well and De-Gbam, which started since 2008. It has grounded socio-economic activities, with schools and religious houses shut. One of the churches closed for fear of possible attack is the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, with the Parish Priest of the church reportedly relocated from the community. A parishioner, who spoke in confidence, said: “For a long while now, there has been no Sunday or weekday masses in the parish. There has also not been any administration of the various sacraments, funerals, weddings and other church activities. Moreover, the situation has forced the parish priest to flee from the community. “The sins of the cult groups include murder, rape, arson, senseless destruction of hard-earned personal effects, kidnapping and stealing farm produce, including goats and chickens.” The parishioner affirmed that “the state Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere, had visited the community in the company of the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Taiwo Lakanu, but we have not seen any positive action from government.” Meanwhile, the Catholic Archbishop of Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Anthony Obinna, has expressed deep worry over the happenings in Awarra community. Obinna made his feelings known when he played host to some parishioners of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Maria Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri, weekend. The Archbishop said the church was very ready to partner with the state government to find a lasting solution to the situation in Awarra.
SOURCE:Chidi Nkwopara
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