In a solemn and spiritually charged atmosphere, the people of Ihiala Local Government Area gathered at Odoata School Field, Ihiala for a one-day interdenominational prayer session aimed at restoring peace and security, which featured a requiem mass in honour of those who lost their lives to recent violent attacks in the area.
In his remark at the prayer session convened by the Chairman of Ihiala Local Government Council, Engr. Anayo Orjiako, which brought together religious leaders, traditional rulers, security operatives, youth, groups, and concerned residents, Governor Chukwuma Soludo, represented by his Special Adviser on Security Matters, Retired Air Vice Marshal Ben Chiobi, sympathized with the families of those who lost their lives following senseless killings in the area and all parts of the state, and emphasized that reducing insecurity requires community ownership of security at the grassroots level, noting that the Homeland Security Law has been instrumental in addressing security challenges in the state.
Leading the requiem mass, the Bishop of Nnewi Catholic Diocese, Most Reverend Jonas -Benson Okoye, assisted by the Auxiliary Bishop of Orlu Diocese, Most Reverend Thomas Obiatuegwu, called for sincere repentance and collaboration to end the violence that has claimed innocent lives and destabilized the area.
Addressing the gathering, the Ihiala Local Government Area Chairman, Engr. Orjiakor, described the event as both spiritual and symbolic, aimed at healing the land and seeking divine intervention, as well as remembering those who lost their lives in the area, especially the former Council Mayor, Honourable Jude Obi.
