Christian Association Raises Alarm Over Rising Idol Worship Among Igbo Youth
The Christian Association of Igbo Ministers (CAIM) has voiced concern about a growing trend among Igbo youth who are shifting away from Christianity and returning to idol worship. This development, they warn, poses a serious threat to both the Christian faith and the Igbo community.
Solomon Chukwuemeka Okorie, the international president of CAIM, addressed the issue on Friday in Umuahia during a press briefing for the upcoming World Igbo Prayer Summit. Scheduled to take place from August 14 to 16 at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia, the summit aims to address these pressing concerns.
Okorie emphasized that if Igbo youth are not guided back to Christian values, the future of Christianity in the region could be at risk. He expressed fears that the historically high Christian population—once at 95 percent—might decline if this trend continues.
He also highlighted a lack of unity among the Igbos compared to other regions, such as the South West and North. The association has called for solidarity among Igbos across the South East and neighboring states like Benue, Delta, Edo, and Rivers. Additionally, they urged Igbo clergy to unite in prayer to overcome current challenges and improve the state of the nation.
The group also expressed concern over the recent deaths of notable Igbo figures, including Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Ifeanyi Ubah, and Onyeka Onwenu. They urged the Igbo people to engage in collective prayer to prevent further loss of prominent leaders.
According to Okorie, the summit will focus on seeking divine intervention for the Igbo community’s survival and addressing the ongoing insecurity in the South East. He stated, “The violence and insecurity that have plagued the South East are contrary to our values, and we will use this summit to pray for the restoration of peace and unity in
the region.”
