Controversial Onitsha-based preacher, Prophet Odumeje, whose real name is Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere, has apologised to Awka, Anambra State residents over threat to destroy their festival known as Imo-Awka.
The leader of Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention Deliverance Ministry also apologised to the people of Arondizuogu in Imo State over threat to end their Ikeji festival.
According to him, the experience had thought him that unguarded utterances with divisive tendencies need to be checked.
“My attention has been drawn to the publications on social media over the alleged face-off between me and the good people of Awka and Arondizuogu communities in Anambra and Imo State respectively,” he said in a statement last week seen over the weekend, The Nation reports.
“In the said posts, I was portrayed as declaring war on the people of these communities and their respective traditional festivals and beliefs, It was also alleged that I had vowed to destroy Imo-Awka festival and put a stop to the Ikeji festival of Arondizuogu.
“Consequently, upon the above, I wish to acknowledge that the people of Awka and Arondizuogu communities are peace loving and I have over the years come to share fellowship and service in church with a great number of them.
“These two communities and their renouned indegenes have been known and recognised as major contributors to the development of their states, Igboland and the nation at large.
“Awka and Arondizuogu communities have produced great men and women of integrity and pedigree and have always remained at the top of great sons and daughters of Igbo land.
“Against this backdrop and with every humility as a Servant of the Living God, I sincerely apologise to the great people of these two communities, to the entire people of Igbo land and to my elders for my utterances. I will not make any attempts to justify my statement as even I can see that it is hurtful in all its ramifications.
“I also want to specially apologize to the family of Mazi Pericomo of Arondizuogu who I understand until his passing was a diligent servant (evangelist) of God.
“I apologise and put it on record that this experience has thought me that words that speak any form of divisive conversation amongst our people MUST be checked. This is a time for unity, love and unwavering support for each other.”
Odumeje called on the public to continue observing all safety protocols against the coronavirus.
