By Tobias Ekirika, Onitsha
The Catholic Men Organisation (CMO), Onitsha Archdiocese, has urged fathers to vote for credible candidates based on their character and competence rather than political party affiliation in the forthcoming general elections.
The call was made during the organisation’s maiden convention held at the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, Onitsha, with the theme, “Champion of Christ, Defender of Faith and Family.” The event also aimed to support the establishment of an e-library at Shanahan University, Onitsha, founded by the Archbishop of Onitsha, Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke.
In his homily, the Vicar-General of the Archdiocese, Very Rev. Fr. JohnBosco Okafor, who represented the Archbishop, urged fathers to remain committed to their responsibilities in their families, the Church and society.
The Archdiocesan CMO Chaplain, Very Rev. Fr. Sampson Ogbuebune, expressed satisfaction with the growing participation of members, attributing the improvement to the collaborative efforts of his office and the President-General, Chief Sir Everistus Ubah.
He said members had agreed to support candidates with the capacity, conscience and fear of God, irrespective of political affiliation.
The chairman of the occasion, Chief Sir Aloysius Azubuike Okafor, KSJI, commended Fr. Ogbuebune and Chief Ubah for their leadership, urging members to participate actively in the organisation’s programmes.
Also speaking, Chief Ubah, popularly known as Oba Nnabuenyi, said the CMO would support individuals who were accessible, responsible and committed to serving the people selflessly.
The President Emeritus, Hon. Sir Ifeanyichukwu E. S. Nnajiaku, KSM, described the family as a domestic Church and urged fathers to uphold their responsibilities in the family, Church and society.
Dignitaries at the convention included Senator Tony Nwoye, representing Anambra North Senatorial District, and Senator Victor Umeh of Anambra Central.
Senator Nwoye pledged to build the proposed e-library at Shanahan University on behalf of the Onitsha Archdiocesan CMO.
Highlights included football, quiz and march-past competitions. Onitsha Region won the football and quiz contests, while Iyiowa Odekpe emerged first in the march-past competition.
Tags: Onitsha CMO, Shanahan University, Anambra politics
