A verbal clash has erupted between Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo and the Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha Archdiocese, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, over the governor’s threat to impose a fine on the Obimma family for allegedly hosting a flamboyant funeral ceremony, in violation of the state’s law against lavish burials.
The existing law, enacted during the administration of Willie Obiano, aims to regulate burial expenses in the state. Governor Soludo, during the requiem mass for Ezinne Grace Obimma, blamed the family, particularly Charles Obimma, for exceeding the prescribed limit set by the burial law.
In response, Archbishop Valerian Okeke criticized the governor for overstepping his jurisdiction, asserting that the government should not legislate on how Christian burials should be conducted. He emphasized the separation of powers and urged the governor to respect the boundaries between ecclesiastical and governmental authority.
The Archbishop argued that making laws for church activities is not within the governor’s purview, stating, “It’s not the duty of the governor to make law on how Christian burials should be done because there are more serious things the government should do. Any law that is impossible to keep or enforce should be considered unjust.”
He reiterated that the church had made suggestions to cut expenses during burials, but the decision to spend more or less ultimately lies with the celebrants. Rev. Fr. Dr. Prudentius Aroh and former Governor Peter Obi also spoke at the mass, praising the late Madam Obimma for her exemplary life.
The clash highlights the delicate balance between state regulations and religious practices, sparking debates on the role of the government in legislating on cultural and religious events.
