Catholic Archbishop raises alarm over large presence of herders in South East

Archbishop of Owerri Catholic Ecclesiastic Province, Dr. Anthony J. V. Obinna, has raised alarm over large presence of herders in South East region of the country.

He called on the governors of the geo-political zone and Igbo leaders to rise to the occasion of protecting the governed in view of the upsurge of the number of herdsmen in the area, who allegedly pose a threats, with their cattle destroying crops in the farmlands.

In a statement issued in Owerri and made available newsmen, ” the cleric noted: “Not satisfied with defeating us in an uneven war, there is this threat to wipe out the Igbos and take over our God-given homes and lands.”

He said he had spoken with Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma on the threats and called for action and enhanced security, adding: “I hereby publicly charge him to recognise that it is his primary duty as the Chief Security Officer of the state to protect the lives of Imo people, their homes and their lands.

“Your Excellency, your voice should be loud and clear on this life and death issue.

“I equally charge other Igbo governors and all Igbo leaders at various levels to protect our people, our homes and our lands. I urge all our people to rise up in prayer to God, in vigilance and legitimate self-defence. The right to life, to our homes and our lands is God-given.”