Primate of the Anglican Communion of Nigeria, Archbishop Henry Ndukuba, has raised alarm over hardships being faced by Nigerians due to lack of planning by people in positions of authority.
He spoke during the interment service of Lady Nkiru Ohakim, wife of Sir Emmanuel Ohakim, the younger brother of a former governor of Imo State, Dr Ikedi Ohakim at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church Okohia in Isiala Mbano local government area of the state yesterday.
Represented by the emeritus Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev BCI Okoro, he said; “Planlessness is one of the banes of this country. People are suffering because of lack of planning, a lot of people are hungry and yet more policies are being introduced. We must pray for good political, religious, traditional rulers so the country can move ahead.”
He did not condemn fuel subsidy removal but maintained that the timing was important, saying careful planning must be done to ensure minimal disruption.
The emeritus bishop said; “We establish several universities and institutions but nobody has planned where the graduates will be engaged upon graduation. Our problem is lack of planning.”
He said death was a necessary end for everyone and advised people to live right, shun evil and treachery so as to spend eternity with God.
The cleric said; “Death signifies rest from pain, sickness and worry. Life is a trust, a loan from God to man for a period of years. It is a time to prepare for eternity. Those who die in the Lord are blessed. Those who die committing crime and outside Christ face doom.”
He called on families to shun acrimony with others, adding that ritualists, adulterers and others who reject Christ will go to hell.
The Bishop of Isi Mbano dioceses, Dr Godson Ukanwa, described the death of Lady Nkiru Ohakim as a huge loss as she played several roles to support her family, adding that she was peaceful even unto death.
The chief mourner, Sir Emmanuel Ohakim, announced the inauguration of the Lady Nkiru Ohakim Foundation to continue her philanthropic duties, adding that in honour of his late wife, the family would donate a church hall within the premises even as he thanked his in-laws, the Chukwudike family for his wife.
Former governor Ikedi Ohakim in his vote of thanks on behalf of the family thanked everyone for identifying with the family, especially in the face of high fuel cost.
