OKPANAM/Nigeria: The Ugoani of Okpanam Kingdom, HRM Dr. Michael Mbanefo Ogbolu, JP, has strongly condemned the actions of land grabbers and warned them to desist from such illegal activities. The monarch delivered the warning at St. Mulumba Catholic Chaplaincy in Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, during the celebration of the feast day of St. Mulumba and the launch of the new Chaplaincy Church building.
Dr. Ogbolu expressed his dismay upon discovering that part of the land belonging to St. Mulumba College had been unlawfully acquired by land grabbers. He called for the immediate return of the disputed land to the Catholic Church, emphasizing that the church is the rightful owner of the property.
The Okpanam monarch praised the efforts of the Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Dr. Andrew Ugochukwu Anah, and the Bishop of Issele-Uku Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Odogwu Elue, for their dedication to rebuilding the school. He reassured them that through continued prayers and hard work, the school would be restored to its former glory.
Rev. Fr. Anah, in his sermon, explained the significance of the feast day of St. Mulumba, the patron saint of the church. Though the universal date for the feast is June 3 each year, Fr. Anah had chosen to celebrate it on Pentecost Sunday, aligning it with the launch of the new church building. He also shared the history of St. Mulumba, also known as Matiya Mulumba Kalemba, who was martyred in 1886. St. Mulumba was known for his humility, service, and dedication, and was honored as a patron saint of chiefs and families.
Fr. Anah urged the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith and continue their efforts toward the growth of the Chaplaincy. He also emphasized the importance of respecting others’ beliefs and encouraged parents to guide their children along the right path of life. The Gospel reading was from St. John (Jn.14:15-18.23b-26), with the theme “The Holy Spirit will teach you all things.”
In an interview with journalists after the event, the Chairman of Obodogba Youths, Comrade Chukwuma Abumujor, commended Fr. Anah for his leadership and the development of the church and school. Comrade Abumujor pledged the support of Obodogba youths in assisting the church and school, urging others to contribute towards the construction of the new church. He also urged the youth to avoid land grabbing and other negative activities.
