Catholic Bishop declines Governor’s award
By Rachel Kogi, CSN
The Catholic Bishop of Abakiliki Diocese, Most Rev. Peter Chukwu, has respectfully declined the honour of an award extended to him by the Ebonyi State Governor, His Excellency, Engr. Chief David Umahi.
In a letter dated December 12, 2022, the Governor had notified Bishop Chukwu of his selection for the Maiden State Honours award 2022 as Commander, Ebonyi Hall of Fame (CEHF), in recognition of his “illustrious service to Ebonyi State and humanity.”
However, in a response on December 16, 2022, the Chief Shepherd of Abakiliki Diocese, while thanking the Governor and the government of Ebonyi State for the “thoughtful consideration,” declined the award.
Advancing reasons for the rejection, the Prelate noted that he is “barely one year in office and still struggling to fit into the high demands of the Ecclesiastical office of the Bishop.” He thus suggested that the “award be bestowed on my predecessor, Most Rev. Michael Okoro, for his long and meritorious service to God and humanity.”
Bishop Chukwu further requested that rather than giving him an award, the Governor should “set in motion, actions that would facilitate the termination of murder and sundry charges against my Priest, Rev. Fr. Timothy Ngwuta.”
