Awka, Nigeria - An Anglican Bishop, Rt Rev. Owen Nwokolo has motioned religious fundamentalists in the north that the south would begin reprisal attacks against northerners in their midst if the current spate of killings of innocent southerners in the north continues.
Bishop Nwokolo stated this amidst growing concerns over the recurring killings of Christians in the north by Boko Haram, an Islamic sect, that frowns at western education.
He gave the caution in his 2011 charge yesterday at Immanuel Church Ugwunabamkpa, Onitsha at the 28th Synod with theme: 'Forgetting what lies behind.... I press on', and noted that Christians cannot continue to be the sacrificial lamb for the zone. Nwokolo insisted therefore that "enough is enough".
Last week, the sect bombed a Catholic Church in Maiduguri, the Borno state capital with several people injured. The sect had also killed some Christians in the north, as part of its efforts to islamise the country.
But speaking at the Synod of the diocese, Bishop Nwokolo noted that people in the south would be forced to retaliate if these killings are not stopped.
Meanwhile, he also commended the Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi for his efforts in improving the state so far, but cautioned him to immediately stem the gradual but steady slide and encouragement of state activities towards religious favouritism. The cleric said he was personally concerned about the apparent introduction of what he called religious politics in the state.
Hear him, "we have also noted the claim in some quarters that Anambra State is a Roman Catholic State, the people who are championing this cause are not only naïve and myopic, but are also the enemies of the government of Anambra State".
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"We are alarmed at this, because of happenings in the recent past, where political campaigns were staged in the church during worship by ordained priests, they adopt their candidates and coerce their gullible members" because they are members of their denominations"
"Some political parties are also classified as being Anglican Party, Roman Catholic Party or Pentecostal party. It is unbelievable. This is a dangerous trend which will bring disaster to our state, God forbid"
"Furthermore, we call on the State government to ensure that nothing is done to create religious crises in Anambra State
"Every effort should be made to stem the tide of religious politics, because it is a dangerous wind that blows no one any good", he added.
"The state government should create a level playing ground for the citizens of the state to operate in, so that love, peace, justice and unity will reign in our state." the bishop affirmed.