By Chizoba Njaka
A veteran journalist and former Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council, Comrade Christopher Ikechukwu Aghanya, has been laid in state in his hometown of Ezimezi, Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Speaking during the burial Mass on Oct.16, the Parish Priest of St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, Amawbia, Rev. Fr. Donatus Oragwam, warned against family conflicts, describing them as one of the factors contributing to the loss of lives in many families.
Fr. Oragwam lamented that some people allow themselves to become consumed by family disputes, which can eventually lead to tragic consequences. He cited instances where three male members of the family were buried within a year, stressing that conflicts do not bring peace but can result in death and lasting sorrow.
He urged the congregation to use the opportunity of being alive to amend their ways, seek God’s face and prepare for His kingdom. He also observed that the number of widows appeared to be greater than that of widowers, calling on men and women to avoid unnecessary disputes and embrace peaceful coexistence.
The priest further encouraged Christians and youths to dedicate their lives to God and make positive changes in their families and society rather than allowing worldly concerns and disagreements to destroy relationships and lives.
He also cautioned against excessive alcohol consumption, warning that careless drinking and addiction could endanger lives, particularly as some alcoholic beverages in circulation were allegedly adulterated or fake. He advised the public to avoid harmful drinking habits and adopt lifestyles that promote longevity.
In his tribute message, the NUJ Chairman, Anambra State Council, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, urged Christians to mourn with hope, noting that although death was inevitable, believers should find comfort in their faith in God.
Odogwu reminded mourners that God’s timing remained sovereign, irrespective of people’s prayers and expectations to live to an advanced age. He encouraged them to draw consolation from the Christian faith and the hope of eternal life. He also called on individuals to promote love, forgiveness and unity by reconciling strained relationships, avoiding unnecessary confrontations and correcting one another with love rather than resorting to public humiliation.
The NUJ chairman further urged members of the community to support grieving families through prayers and practical assistance, while praying for God’s comfort for the deceased’s family, particularly his only son.
Late Aghanya worked as an editor at the former Anambra Newspaper and Printing Corporation (ANPC), publishers of National Light newspaper, Awka, before his retirement. He also served as chairman of the NUJ Anambra State Council, contributing to the journalism profession in the state.
Chizoba Njaka is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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