The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Ohaji/Egbema, Imo State, Rt. Rev. Chidi Collins Oparaojiaku, PhD, has called on the people of the oil-bearing communities of Ohaji/Egbema to put aside their differences and unite. He made this appeal at the 2026 St. Matthew’s Patrons’ Day celebration, award presentation, and fundraising ceremony for the construction of an ultra-modern cathedral at St. Matthew’s Church, Ilile, Ohaji.
Oparaojiaku expressed concern that the failure of the people to come together and establish a common front had continued to affect their political influence and representation. He emphasized the need for the people to unite as an indivisible entity and engage other zones in meaningful political dialogue. This, he believes, will enable them to negotiate effectively and pursue their collective political aspirations.
The Bishop asked the people to consider what their political bargain and alignment would be ahead of the 2027 elections. He stressed the need for them to determine their collective interest and pursue it with unity. Oparaojiaku also frowned at the tendency of the people of Ohaji/Egbema to turn themselves into “errand boys” for successive governments in the state.
Oparaojiaku expressed worry that if this trend continued without urgent intervention, it could take a long time to correct the mistakes and divisions that had held the area back. He acknowledged that the people possessed connections, capacity, and influential personalities. However, he urged them to redirect their strength from division towards unity.
The Bishop also advised the people to stop protesting against their indigenes appointed to positions of authority. He described such actions as unhealthy and detrimental to the image of the community. In his sermon, Oparaojiaku admonished Christians to emulate the lifestyle of St. Matthew, the tax collector, by following Jesus Christ wholeheartedly.
The Traditional Ruler of Ilile Autonomous Community, HRH Eze Azubuike Ekezie, also spoke at the event. He urged members of the church to remain focused and not panic. The monarch described the gathering as an opportunity to testify to the goodness and faithfulness of God in their lives.
Eze Ekezie assured the congregation that the church building would be completed within record time. He also expressed appreciation to the invited guests for honouring the church’s invitation and supporting the project. The event was attended by notable figures, including the Administrator of Mgbuisii Missionary Archdeaconry, Rev. Canon Zebulon Eluke, and Hon. Eugene Dibiagwu, member of the House of Representatives representing Ohaji/Egbema/Oguta/Oru East Federal Constituency.
Key points
- The Anglican Bishop of Ohaji/Egbema Diocese, Rt. Rev. Chidi Collins Oparaojiaku, has urged the people of Ohaji/Egbema to unite and speak with one voice ahead of the 2027 elections.
- Oparaojiaku expressed concern over the people’s failure to establish a common front, which has affected their political influence and representation.
- The Bishop advised the people to stop protesting against their indigenes appointed to positions of authority, describing such actions as unhealthy and detrimental to the community's image.
