(By Iheanyi Ezinwo, Publisher) -History was made on Saturday, September 8, 2018 in Elibrada, a very strategic town in the Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria when the indigenes, determined to change the narratives of kidnapping, cultism, violence and killings gathered to ask for God’s mercy and also recommit the land and people to God at a solemn Assembly.
Speaking at the meeting, with the theme: ‘Elibrada in God’s Hands’, the chairman of Elibrada Concerned Citizens, organizers of the programme, Hon. Ben Oti, recalled the days when Elibrada used to be peaceful and every one, including strangers was going about his or her business without fear before the advent of cultism, and how the violent clashes and killings scared away the inhabitants, turning the place into a ghost town at a time.
He thanked all those who contributed in the return of peace in Elibrada, even as he explained that the Solemn Assembly was conceived as an opportunity for the people to seek forgiveness from God, and for the healing of the land.
In his message, Rev. Chigozirum Amadi thanked God for the return of peace in Elibrada and the bold move to rededicate Elibrada to God. He however blamed the abominations that befell the town on all indigenes who sponsored and encouraged the violence, and others who were indifferent to the carnage while it lasted.
He warned that the blood of those killed would be required in the hands of all those who are directly or indirectly responsible unless they repent and seek forgiveness from God, who, he said abhors unlawful shedding of blood, as was the case in the community for some years.
Dr. Amadi however disclosed that God is merciful, and that if the people can return to Him in repentance, that he will forgive and heal the land, and development which has eluded the area because of violence will come without delay.
He recalled how that Elibrada was honoured as the most peaceful community in Emohua at a time, and how buildings have speedily taken over locations of shrines in the town, assuring that the trend will continue until there is no more shrine in Elibrada.
The ministration was followed by prayers for forgiveness for individuals and for the community, dedication of the land and people of Elibrada to God, as well as special prayers for the repentant cultists present.
Meanwhile, one of the repentant cultists who spoke at the occasion regretted that they behaved foolishly, in an unprofitable enterprise but thanked God that he is alive to tell the story unlike others who lost their lives in violent cult clashes within and outside Elibrada.
The solemn Assembly, which took place at Elibrada playground featured testimonies, praise and worship, prayer sessions and dedication of the land to God. The event was attended by the paramount ruler of the town, Chief Augustine Onu Amadi and his chiefs; ministers of God from the community and concerned citizens of Elibrada.
