Emeka Ihedioha Restates Need For Unity Of The State & The Church…Says Rule Of Law and Honesty Will Be His Watchword.

Emeka Ihedioha.

Governor Emeka Ihedioha of Imo State, has charged the leadership of the church to work with the state to foster sustainable unity in the society.

He made the charge when he played host to the Bishops and Archbishops of the Joint Council of Anglican Provinces, who paid him a courtesy visit, at the Government House, Thursday,

The Governor thanked them for their prayers and support, while assuring that his government will ensure that the rule of law prevails in all circumstances.  He also promised that his government will not play politics with the church or religion. 

Recalling the prayerful support from the clergy and the church during his campaigns and electioneering, he said, “Your prayers ushered us into office and only prayers will sustain us.  I urge you to continue to pray for the success of our administration.

The Governor who noted that the state and the church are one, pledged to work in tandem with the Christian Community towards realizing the enormous task of rebuilding the state.

He revealed that efforts to undermine his government have not gone unnoticed. “Aside the stench in the Imo that we inherited, we are also not unmindful of the fact that those who do not want peace for the state are already working against the government. But we shall remain focused in our bid to fix the state. We need your prayers in that direction”, he disclosed

While reiterating his commitment towards fairness and justice to all persons and groups with the application of truly democratic principles and respect for rule of law, he promised to ensure that rule of law and honesty will be his watchword and guide.

Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation and Chairman of the Council, Archbishop Caleb Maduoma, said they were in the state, not only to congratulate the governor on his victory at the poll and successful inauguration of his administration, but, more importantly, to pray for him.

He stressed that power belongs to God and it is only Him that enthrones leadership and therefore advised him to work hard towards upholding integrity, equity and avoid sycophants who will be handy to destroy his government.

“We came to thank God for your emergence as governor. We urge you to hold on to your God. Beware of sycophants who would want to bring you down. Uphold integrity and remain straightforward in your work. For the respect you always accord men of God, we appreciate you. We are honoured by your assemblage of the government of Imo State to receive us. You have proved that you are a man of your words.”

Contributing, Archbishop of Enugu Ecclesiastical Province, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuma praised God for the visible changes going on in Imo State since the emergence of Governor Ihedioha, praying God to lead and guide him.

“My advice to the Governor is to beware of sycophants, work with honesty and people of integrity, not selfish individuals. It is also important to always strive to leave a good legacy to make Imo people happy again”.

The delegation which comprised 2 Archbishops and 26 Bishops prayed that the Lord will grant him the grace and wisdom to rebuild the state and pilot the affairs of governance with the interest of all at heart.

In attendance at the occasion include Deputy Governor of Imo State, Hon. Gerald Irona; newly elected Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chiji Collins; his Deputy Barr. Okey Onyekanma; Hon. Henry Nwawuba, member representing Mbaitoli/Ikeduru Federal Constituency; Secretary to the State Government, Hon Uche Onyeagucha; Attorney General and Commissioner, Chief Ndukwe Nnawuchi SAN; Chairman of Imo State PDP, Barr, Charles Ezekwem, The Chairman, Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Sir. Samuel Ohiri, Senator Osita Izunaso; Hon Jeff Ojinika.

Others include: Chief of Staff, Government House, Barr.Chris Okewulonu; Principal Secretary, Sir. Theodore Nwokonkwo, Barr. Paschal Madu and other key government officials..