The Anambra State government has responded to reports suggesting that it threatened to ban traditional worship, clarifying that the state’s stance is focused on regulating and registering traditional religious leaders, not imposing a ban.
At a stakeholders’ meeting held in Awka on Thursday, Don Onyenji, the state’s commissioner for culture, entertainment, and tourism, addressed the concerns. He explained that Governor Charles Soludo’s call for the registration of traditional religious leaders and custodians of shrines was intended to curb criminal activities linked to some individuals involved in illegal practices.
“The governor’s call is to have a compilation of all traditional religious leaders as a way of discouraging crime. We should not forget that some criminals, like armed robbers, fraudsters, and kidnappers, patronize native doctors and shrines for powers to carry out their unlawful activities,” Onyenji said.
He emphasized that the government would take action against native doctors or shrine worshippers who are found to be aiding criminals in any way, stating that they would face prosecution if caught preparing charms or assisting criminals in their illegal operations.
In addition to addressing the crime issue, the meeting also focused on promoting positive social behaviors among the youth. NgoziChuma-Udeh, the state commissioner for education, outlined the partnership with ASHOKA Africa to reform social behavior among young people. Represented by IfyAgbaizu, the permanent secretary in the education ministry, Chuma-Udeh stressed the importance of instilling core Igbo values such as hard work, respect, and honesty in the younger generation.
“This will save the youth from indulging in the social ills that are rampant in society today,” Chuma-Udeh said, encouraging students to pursue dignified and lawful means of wealth creation.
The meeting also featured OkechukwuUzoechina, the leader of the ASHOKA Africa delegation, who shared the organization’s vision of empowering individuals to become change-makers in society. Uzoechina emphasized the importance of confidence, freedom, and support for people to solve societal challenges and contribute to a better future.
The event, which included students from select secondary schools in Anambra, was seen as a positive engagement, with students like MakuochukwuUmeh, head girl of Anglican Girls Secondary School, Awka, reflecting on the lessons learned. “Quick and illegal wealth is not good. I have learned that farming, craft making, and other lawful engagements are good and dignified sources of making wealth,” Umeh said.
The meeting underscored the state’s commitment to fostering a culture of positive social change and addressing issues such as crime, while also promoting youth empowerment and education.
AT REPORTERS
