Herdsmen attack: Bishop Ikeakor is Alive, says Diocese of Amichi

By Odogwu Emeka Odogwu

Against the news making rounds that Bishop Ephraim Ikeakor was killed by Fulani Herdsmen, The Anglican diocese of Amichi has said that he is alive, hale and healthy.

A statement from Amichi diocese signed by Ven. Chukwuebuka Chukwuemeka, the Diocesan Communicator said the trending news in the social media should be disregarded.

The statement read thus: ‘’Our attention has been drawn to a video clip of Bishop Ephraim Ikeakor which is  trending on social media. The peddlers of this viral video claim it is that of one Rev.Fr. Offu who was allegedly killed by Fulani herdsmen in Enugu state.

This has caused no small stir among members of the Diocese, admirers and followers of Bishop Ikeakor. As a result, we have been inundated with calls inquiring about the whereabouts, safety and well-being of Bishop Ephraim Ikeakor.

‘’The trending video and accompanying messages are ill motivated and are the handiwork of mischief makers who are seeking to cause panic to society unnecessarily. This action in itself is borne out of ill will and it is a total disservice to society. It should be condemned by all Nigerians.

‘’On behalf of Bishop Ikeakor and the Diocese of Amichi, I therefore clarify as follows:

‘’The trending video is that of Bishop Ephraim Ikeakor and has nothing whatsoever to do with the said Rev.Fr.Offu.

‘’ The said video is an extract from Bishop Ikeakor’s Presidential address presented at St. James Church, Azigbo in June, 2017.

‘’ Bishop Ephraim Ikeakor is alive, very healthy and safe. He has never at anytime been attacked or killed by anyone.

‘’We therefore call on the general public to ignore the said message and go about their normal business without fear or panic. We also call on Nigerians to take adequate measures to protect themselves against the marauding killers that have invaded our land while conducting their lives quietly.

We also call on the government and all her relevant agencies to quickly put measures in place to immediately guarantee maximum protection of life and property of all Nigerians everywhere and bring an end to the unabated killings presently going on in our country.

Thank you once again for the love and concern you have shown to Bishop Ikeakor. Much blessings.”