Abia State deputy governor, Ikechukwu Emetu has decried the high rate of criminality in the society especially among the youths, saying the church must rise up to the challenge.
Emetu stated this during the inauguration of the new Ohafia Synod of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria at Isiama Parish, Elu Ohafia, Ohafia local government.
He said much was needed to be done to redirect the mindset of the youths, adding that the church and every stakeholder in the society must brace to change the narrative.
He used the opportunity to urge churches in the state to sustain their prayers and support for the administration to deliver on its campaign pledges.
“On our part, the Alex Otti-led administration is addressing the challenge by creating job opportunities and encouraging investors and entrepreneurs in the state to excel,” he said.
Congratulating the synod on the occasion, the deputy governor urged the officers to be dedicated to their duties and the members to support and pray for the officers.
In his sermon, the prelate and moderator of the General Assembly of the church, His Eminence, Dr Ekpeyong Akpanika, charged the synod to embark on aggressive evangelism for souls.
“The primary mission of the church is to preach the gospel to the poor, heal the broken hearted and downtrodden in society as well as proclaiming liberty to the captives,” he added.
In the sermon entitled, “The purpose of our existence as a church,” the No 1 Presbyterian in the country appealed to the synod to cater to the needs of people living with disabilities as well.
