Abia Faith and Elders Council Holds Maiden Meeting, Calls for Peace and Unity

The Abia Faith and Elders Council for Unity, Stability and Development (AFEC) has held its maiden meeting in Umuahia, bringing together Christian clergy and respected community elders from different parts of Abia State.

The Council was formed out of a shared concern for the peace, unity, stability and development of Abia State and Nigeria as a whole.

AFEC is a faith-based and non-partisan platform that seeks to provide a forum where faith leaders and elders can come together to pray, consult and offer constructive counsel on issues affecting the well-being of the people.

The Council does not seek political power or government authority. Rather, it hopes to encourage peaceful coexistence among leaders across political divides and to promote responsible leadership for the good of the state.

Members noted that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, unity and stability. For this reason, the Council believes faith leaders and elders have a responsibility to encourage dialogue and mutual respect among leaders and citizens alike.

Speaking during the meeting, one of the conveners of the Council, Bishop Ugoo Nwosu, stressed the importance of unity among political leaders in the state.

According to him:

“What we desire in Abia State is peace and progress. No state can make meaningful development in an atmosphere of hostility and division. We therefore appeal to those who are stoking the fires of rivalry and acrimony among our political leaders to desist. The people will benefit more when their leaders work together in understanding and mutual respect.”

Also speaking, the President General of Ibeku Egwu Asaa, Hon. Lawrence Odoemelam, said the platform appeals to him because it is not politically driven.

He said:

“I do not belong to any political party, and that is why I find this platform very important. However, it is clear to many Abians that the present administration has introduced some positive changes in the state. Our people should be willing to support leaders who demonstrate commitment and capacity, irrespective of political affiliation.”

On his part, Rev. Kenneth Ogbudu called on Abians to look beyond partisan interests and focus on the collective progress of the state. He acknowledged the efforts of Governor Alex Otti in repositioning the state and also commended the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, for his contributions at the national level.

He noted that Abia stands to gain more when leaders at different levels of government work together in harmony for the benefit of the people.

The meeting was attended by several faith leaders, community stakeholders and elders who share the vision of promoting peace and development in Abia State.

Among those present were:

• The President General of Nkpa
• The President General of Ibeku
• Bishop Ugoo Nwosu
• Hon. Lawrence Odoemelam
• Rev. Kenneth Ogbudu
• Rev. Igwe Uko
• Rev. Chikezie Okezie
• Elder Steve Agu

as well as other clergy and community leaders who support the objectives of the Abia Faith and Elders Council for Unity, Stability and Development (AFEC).

The Council reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, unity and constructive engagement for the continued progress of Abia State.

Issued by:
The Secretariat
Abia Faith and Elders Council for Unity, Stability and Development (AFEC)
Umuahia, Abia State