CHRISTIAN ABURIME
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has called on leaders and the laity to embody the courage required for societal transformation, insisting that governance and knighthood must prioritize the right path over the easy one.
Speaking at St. Patrick’s Cathedral during the All Knights Day of the Catholic Diocese of Awka, Governor Soludo commended the church leadership for fostering a spirit of “common good” and praised the diocese for standing firm against societal ills.
He specifically highlighted the success of the Anambra Burial Law, noting that by eliminating expensive pomp and pageantry, the state is ensuring “befitting living and decent burial” for its citizens.
The Governor also revealed an ongoing crackdown on “fake pastors” who exploit the vulnerable by preaching a gospel of “salvation without the cross,” confirming that several are already in custody and confessing. He emphasized that a “New Anambra” is in the offing which must be clean and clear of such deception, reinforcing the church’s teaching that hard work pays.
In a firm demonstration of fiscal discipline, Governor Soludo granted a request from the Knights to support their charity visits to orphanages but declined a request for public funds to sew uniforms, stating he would not deploy state resources for private institutional regalia. He urged the Knights to remain the “light of the world and the salt of the earth” by living through principles rather than mere titles.
The event, which featured a Pontifical Mass celebrated by the Catholic Bishop of Awka, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, had the homily delivered by the Diocesan Secretary, Rev. Fr. Evaristus Iheanacho who reflected on the work of the Holy Spirit, describing knighthood as a process of “sober reflection, stock-taking, and reckoning” governed by strict tenets and precepts. He reminded the Knights that true love for Christ is found in keeping His commandments through discipline, humility, and courage. He cautioned against elitist isolation, charging the Knights to mingle with the people and preserve their “human face” and prophetic voice in the community.