Edemba urges fathers to actively participate in elections as Catholic men conclude one-day regional convention

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By Sunny A. David, Onitsha

The President of the Onitsha Regional Catholic Men Organization (CMO), Bro. Hilary Edemba, has called on fathers to take active part in Nigeria’s electoral process, urging them not to be discouraged by past irregularities during voting and result declarations.

Edemba made the call on October 27 during the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha CMO Episcopal Regional Annual Convention, held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Awka Road, Onitsha, with the theme “Do Not Be Deceived, God Is Still Faithful.”

He emphasized that the purpose of the convention was spiritual renewal and civic reawakening among Catholic fathers, noting that voter apathy had become a growing concern.

“We discovered that many people are now discouraged from voting, but we must remind ourselves that it is our civic duty,” Edemba said. “No matter what we see during elections, we should not give up. Let’s encourage our wives, children, and friends to go out and perform their civic responsibilities.”

The Convention Planning Committee Chairman, Mayor Andy Akanonu, thanked God for the success of the event and described the discussions as “an eye-opener” for participants. He stressed the importance of fathers living truthful and godly lives, saying that children naturally follow the example set by their fathers.

Delivering a keynote address on the topic “Politics: A Civic Responsibility as a Catholic Father,” Barrister Dr. Noel Udeoji, a lecturer at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, underscored the Church’s role in promoting civic education and moral formation.

He highlighted the need for parishioners to register, collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and vote wisely, adding that “politics remains a duty expected of every citizen for the good of society.”

Udeoji presented data showing that women’s voter turnout in Anambra and across the Southeast is slightly higher than men’s about 55% women to 45% men and attributed men’s voter apathy to excessive focus on spiritual matters, weak civic engagement structures, and limited practical political awareness within church circles.

He proposed solutions such as organizing pre-election voter forums, encouraging responsible Catholic fathers to contest local elections, and promoting open discussions about politics and leadership within families.

The Convention Secretary, Sir Ebilite Ugonna, reiterated that the theme was chosen to remind Christians that “God still exists and remains faithful” despite societal challenges. He cautioned those indifferent to elections, saying,

“Whether you vote or not, someone will win — and you must live under that leadership. So, it’s better to participate.”

Ebilite also warned against vote-buying, urging voters to uphold integrity, while advising politicians to honor their campaign promises.

“Don’t get rotten because you are in the system,” he said.

In his homily, the CMO Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Joseph Umeasiegbu of Christ the King Parish, encouraged fathers to place their trust in God while remaining active citizens through electoral participation.

The convention, which began with a 10 a.m. Holy Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Jose Maria Onyechi (representing Fr. Umeasiegbu), brought together Catholic fathers from parishes under the Basilica Zone, St. Mary’s Zone, Fegge Zone, Sacred Heart Zone, Awada Zone, and Christ the King Zone.

Among the special guests was the Anambra State APC Chairman, Chief Basil Ejidike, who emphasized the need for informed voting, urging fathers to “ask questions before making electoral decisions.”

Other notable attendees included Mayor Chukwukelu Okudo, former CMO Onitsha Regional President; Prince Ewuzie Kennedy, CMO President of St. Mary’s Parish; Hon. Mayor Ebuka Udeolisa, Assistant Secretary CMO Onitsha Region; and Mr. Leo Unegbu, Secretary, CMO Episcopal Region.