Traditional rulers in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State have taken a decisive spiritual step to combat the menace of kidnapping in their communities.
During a solemn prayer session on December 24, the monarchs invoked death upon kidnappers terrorizing the region.
The event, led by Eze Innocent Nwaigwe, saw the royal fathers engage in traditional rituals, including pouring libation, breaking kola nuts, and using alligator peppers while making pronouncements against bandits operating in Umuahia North.
A Bold Declaration Against Criminals
Eze Nwaigwe and his fellow monarchs declared that kidnappers hiding in the area would face death or be apprehended unless they abandoned their evil ways. They called upon supernatural forces, invoking bees to sting out any kidnappers concealed in the bushes, and pledged to spiritually cleanse their communities of criminal activities.
“We asked the gods to visit kidnappers with capital punishment if they refuse to repent and stop terrorizing our people,” Eze Nwaigwe stated after the prayers.
The monarchs also expressed confidence that their spiritual intervention would ensure a peaceful and secure environment throughout the Christmas and New Year celebrations and beyond.
Prayers for the Government and Community
The royal fathers extended their prayers to the government of Abia State, commending Governor Alex Otti for his administration’s efforts in improving security and governance. They prayed for divine guidance and protection for the governor, emphasizing their support for his leadership.
Community Response and Expectations
Residents of Umuahia North have welcomed the monarchs’ spiritual declaration, viewing it as a bold move to address the rising threat of kidnapping. Many believe the invocation will serve as both a deterrent to potential criminals and a reassurance of safety for the community.
A local farmer, who attended the session, remarked, “The traditional rulers have done well. It’s time for kidnappers to leave our land or face the wrath of the gods. We now feel a renewed sense of hope and protection.”
A Call to Action
The monarchs also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with local authorities in reporting suspicious activities. They emphasized that traditional and spiritual measures alone cannot eradicate crime and urged everyone to take collective responsibility for the safety of their communities.
The invocation by the Umuahia North traditional rulers reflects a growing trend of combining cultural practices with modern governance to address pressing societal issues. As the community awaits the outcome of these prayers, many hope that peace and security will indeed prevail during the festive season and beyond.
