Nsukka Diocese Rejects Comments by Governor Mbah’s Aide About Ogige Market Demolition

The Catholic Diocese of Nsukka has clarified that the remarks made by its bishop about the demolition of shops at Ogige Market were part of his pastoral duties, not a political statement.

Fr Emmanuel Asadu, the Diocese’s Director of Communications, issued a statement on Thursday accusing Mr Reuben Onyishi, Senior Special Assistant to Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, of dragging the bishop into a political controversy.

The bishop reportedly spoke during the burial of catechist John Attah, who had died after suffering a stroke following the demolition of his shop and those of other family members at Ogige Market, Nsukka.

The Diocese said the bishop’s comments were intended to address the suffering of affected residents and should not be seen as political campaigning.

“The duty of a shepherd is to speak against injustice and the suffering of the people, whether the action comes from a friend, an ally, or a stranger,” the statement read.

It added that the Church will continue to speak out whenever people’s livelihoods are threatened, emphasizing that raising concerns over the demolition and the welfare of affected traders falls within its moral and pastoral responsibilities.

The Diocese urged Onyishi and other government officials to avoid what it described as attempts to politicise the bishop’s message, noting that no amount of political rhetoric could erase the experiences of those affected by the demolition.

It also stated that Governor Peter Mbah is not known for intimidation or blackmail and called on his aides to refrain from tactics that could be perceived as efforts to suppress criticism.

The Diocese reaffirmed its commitment to standing with the people and guiding public office holders through moral counsel, insisting that its mission remains the pastoral care of souls and the defence of human dignity.