The Speaker, Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Konbowei Benson, has hired the services of a cleric to heal the spate of kidnappings, militancy, killings, illegal oil bunkering and other criminal activities battling his constituency
Hon. Benson representing Southern Ijaw Constituency 4 in the State Assembly, explained that plans had reached advanced stage for his constituents to play host to a popular pastor, Rev. Uma Ukpai, for a three-day crusade aimed at cleansing and healing the land.
The Speaker was quoted in a statement on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Aotendeike Boloigha, as saying the reason for the “cleansing and healing” crusade was to change the negative narratives of his community.
He reportedly spoke while addressing heads of clans, paramount rulers and chairmen of Community Development Committees of the 29 communities in the constituency.
Benson said, “Travelling to our once very peaceful environment is now done only with the presence of heavily armed military men, even traditional and social functions are not left out; an ugly trend that has made everyone a victim and vulnerable.
“It is worrisome that in the quest to acquire powers of invincibility, youths from the region have transported many idols, evil deities from other parts of the country to the region and entered into covenants with them without taking into account the effects on their spirituality and relationship with God. This has increased idolatry and unexplainable lifestyle in the land.”
Reiterating the importance of healing the land, Benson added that he decided to engage the “man of God”, Ukpai, who agreed to hold the crusade, saying its intent was to put a stop to all the crimes in the region by divine intervention.