Ahead the 2023 governorship election in Imo State, the Catholic Social Forum, a socio-political arm of the Laity Council of Nigeria Owerri Province, organized a Diocesan Reorientation and Sensitization Program with the theme “Healing the Land.” This event aimed to encourage Catholic faithful to actively engage in politics and exercise their voting rights responsibly.
The program which was Coordinated by the President of the Laity Council of Nigeria, Owerri Province, Hon. Placid Onyekachi Chijioke and the Coordinator of the Social Forum of the Laity Council, Sir. Ambrose Obioha (KSM), began at the Ahiara Diocese with a Holy Mass, followed by insightful sessions featuring teachings, talks, and interactive prayer sessions. Key discussions emphasized the need for lay Catholics to cast their votes and participate actively in politics. Additionally, the Charter of Equity for Imo State was adopted, and the faithful expressed gratitude to the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, for his developmental efforts.
The momentum continued as the event moved to the Okigwe Diocese on October 28th at the Cathedral Retreat Center, also commencing with a Holy Mass. During the homily, the priest urged the faithful to engage in politics, emphasizing that Catholic participation in elections could lead to the selection of the right candidates for leadership.
The President of the Catholic Laity Council of Nigeria thanked attendees for their active participation and encouraged them to play a crucial role in the upcoming governorship election scheduled for November 11. Prayers were offered for the government of Nigeria, the state, and for a peaceful election process.
The grand finale of the Catholic Social Forum took place at the Maria Assumpta Cathedral in Owerri, featuring attendees from the Orlu Diocese and Owerri Archdiocese. During the Holy Mass, Catholics were reminded to vote for the right candidates and reject temptations of vote buying and electoral malpractices.
Notable dignitaries, including the Governor of Imo State, represented by Deputy Governor Prof. Placid Njoku, and the Patron of the Laity Council, Prof. Maurice Iwu, joined the event. Chief Sir Ozurumba SAN chaired the location. Dr. Desmond delivered a lecture, encouraging Catholics to actively participate in politics and exercise their fundamental rights to vote.
The event culminated in the presentation of an Award of Excellence to the state governor for his support to the Church. Governor Senator Hope Uzodimma, represented by Deputy Governor Prof. Placid Njoku, expressed gratitude for the recognition and encouraged Catholics to vote and support his re-election bid in the November 11 election.
The 2023 Catholic Social Forum was a resounding success, marking a significant shift as the Laity embraced their responsibility to participate actively in politics, making their voices heard and contributing to the democratic proces.
