By Ada Chima
An African traditional spiritualist and Director of Lomat Global Resources Ltd,
Izuorah Nnamdi, has expressed deep gratitude to Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, for his dedication to protecting the constitutional rights of practitioners of indigenous spirituality, known as Odinani, in the state.
In an open he addressed to Soludo on Wednesday, Nnamdi lauded Soludo's transformative leadership and proactive governance while recognizing his commitment to infrastructural development and efforts to combat insecurity despite significant challenges.
However, he also voiced serious concerns regarding recent statements and actions from the governor's office targeting practitioners of indigenous spirituality, which he believes threaten the principles of equity, justice, and constitutional adherence.
“Permit me to express my profound appreciation for your commendable strides in governance within Anambra State,” Nnamdi stated. “Your administration's relentless commitment to infrastructural development and efforts toward combating insecurity amid daunting challenges are worthy of acknowledgment. However, I must address my grave concerns regarding recent actions targeting practitioners of indigenous spirituality, which raise fundamental questions about equity and justice.”
Nnamdi urged the governor to reconsider his assertion that Anambra is a "Christian state." He emphasized that this characterization is historically, culturally, and constitutionally inaccurate, as Christianity is a relatively recent arrival in the region, having been introduced by missionaries in 1857. Before this time, the people thrived under their indigenous belief system, Odinani, which defined their cultural identity and societal values.
“The idea that Anambra belongs exclusively to Christianity is a gross misrepresentation of our history,” he continued. “Anambra, like the rest of Igboland, is rooted in its indigenous spirituality. While Christianity has become prevalent due to colonial influence, it is not the indigenous faith of our land.”
Nnamdi also referenced Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, stating that it recognizes no state religion and promotes a secular framework where all beliefs should be treated equally. He called on Governor Soludo, as an upholder of the constitution, to maintain a stance of neutrality and inclusivity, ensuring that practitioners of Odinani, Christianity, Islam, and other faiths are equally respected under the law.
He criticized Soludo's recent condemnation of indigenous spirituality practitioners as "idol worshipers," arguing that this broad characterization unfairly implicates an entire community and perpetuates cultural misunderstandings. “While it’s essential to address criminality under any guise, singling out one belief system without equal scrutiny of others is an act of prejudice," he asserted, underscoring the importance of applying the same standards of accountability across all faiths.
Nnamdi also called attention to the governor’s remarks on traditional sacrifices, which are integral to Igbo cosmology. He argued that banning these practices outright without alternative solutions disregards deep-rooted cultural traditions. He proposed constructive dialogue with traditional custodians to create designated areas for cultural observances that respect public order without erasing local beliefs.
“Governor Soludo, the strength of any democracy lies in its commitment to justice, fairness, and respect for diversity,” Nnamdi concluded. “As a leading figure, I urge you to rise above religious bias and embrace your role as a father to all Ndi Anambra, championing cultural inclusivity and constitutional fidelity.”