By Kamsi Anayo
Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra state has asked churches to allow the poor to have access to the hospitals and schools by reducing fees and bills.
Soludo who decried the high fees payable in schools, hospitals and other facilities owned by churches enjoined Christians, especially their leaders to shun discrimination, stating that the body of Christ is one.
He also charged them to remain prayerful and faithful in the prevailing circumstances in the country.
Soludo stated this at the Eucharistic and Thanksgiving Service for the 3rd Session of the 12th Synod of the Anglican Communion, Awka Diocese.
The event was held at Saint Peter’s Church, Abagana, in Njikoka Local Government Area of the state with the theme “Running the Christian Race: Implications for the Believers in Perilous Times.”
Soludo said, “We need a system of affirmative action that will make the poor and less privileged have access to social amenities such as schools and hospitals built by churches or any faith-based institution at affordable rates.”
Soludo said as a way of promoting ecumenism in the state, his administration held daily prayers at the Governor’s Lodge with different denominations in attendance.
He added, “The philosophy behind my administration is the mantra of one state, one people, one agenda; this is the bond bringing all of us together.
He said his administration was dedicated and determined, with the collective support and cooperation of the people of the state, to position the state on the global map.
He added that members of his team were ready to provide good leadership by gradually and systematically rolling out the administration’s agenda that would not only make Anambra peaceful but to become a livable and prosperous homeland for everyone living and doing business in the state.
Speaking, the Bishop Awka Diocese, Most Reverend Alexander Ibezim commended the Soludo administration, stating that the state had become more peaceful under his reign.