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From George Onyejiuwa, Owerri
The Catholic Social Forum (CSF) of the Catholic Laity Council of Nigeria, Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, have decried the prevailing state of insecurity in the state and urged stakeholders in Imo State especially as the 11 November gubernatorial polls approaches to join hands to curb the insecurity challenges in the state.
The group also admonished politicians and citizens to refrain from politicizing security issues and support effort aimed at enhancing the general well-being of the citizens.
Speaking, at a press conference held at the Assumpta Cathedral, the Coordinator, Sir Ambrose Obioha, said the call became necessary in order to promote and sustain peace, security and progress of the state.
Obioha said, “Imo State, like many parts of our country, has faced its share of challenges in recent times. We wish to clarify that our purpose here is not to point fingers but to provide a deeper understanding of these challenges.
“So, in a nutshell, we have gathered you here today, not to cast blame but to shed light on the security and social challenges that have impacted our great state and to propose a way forward toward mutual trust, harmony, and coexistence.
He continued, “It is also crucial that we refrain from politicizing these security issues. Imo State is home to diverse communities, and our strength lies in our unity. We must stand together as one, setting aside political differences for the greater good of our people. The healing of our land begins with mutual trust, harmony, and coexistence among all residents.
“We call upon all stakeholders – government, civil society, traditional leaders, and the private sector – to work together in a spirit of collaboration and empathy. We must rekindle the values that define us as a people: love, peace, and the belief in a brighter future for our children.”
The group also used the opportunity to announce its forthcoming week programme, with the theme: ‘Healing the Land’ to address pressing issues in our beloved Imo State.
Regarding the event, Obioha said, “The event is designed to hold across the four dioceses in the Province, and will build up to the Grand finale scheduled for the 4th of November, 2023, at the Obiri Odenigbo.
“Our hope is that at the end of the program, we would have prayed for the state and its leaders, the church and its leaders, and would have equipped our members who will be presented certificates as Catholic Social Forum Advocates, so that all we do at the provincial level will easily trickle down to the parishes for the realization of our set objectives.”
“In the coming weeks, we urge everyone to join us as we promote peace, security, and social progress in our state, through the Catholic Social Forum, for it is only through unity and collective effort that we can truly heal our beloved Imo State,” he added.
