By Nna Anulumadu
The Onitsha Regional Laity Council recently held an election that produced Comrade Ben Chikezie, also known as Uzuakpondu, as the new president-elect, along with other executive members.
Speaking to Trinitas Newspaper correspondent shortly after the election, the new president-elect, Comrade Ben Chikezie, expressed his readiness to bring a new era to the laity and pledged to work hard to unite the faithful, including the Catholic Men’s Organization (CMO), Catholic Women’s Organization (CWO), youth, and others, as one body in the church.
He also revealed his plans to lead the laity in grassroots evangelization to combat the practice of neopaganism among some Christians. Comrade Chikezie further charged the lay faithful to be more charitable during the Lenten season and to live out their Christianity every day as part of ongoing efforts to transform the world.
He thanked the Onitsha Archdiocesan Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Celestine Aniofor, and the Zonal Chaplain, Fr. James Nwagbara, for their encouragement and efforts in moving the regional laity forward.
Other newly elected executives of the Laity Council Onitsha Region include:Vice President: Arch. Vitus Akpunonu, Secretary: Lady Melvina Ezeiruaku, Assistant Secretary: Comrade Christian Ezenwa, Financial Secretary: Bro. Cyprain Anyagu, Treasurer: Chief Marius Agbams, Public Relations Officer (PRO): Mr. Nonso Nwokeji, Provost 1: Mr. Hyginus Agharaekwuo, Provost 2: Mr. Malachy Onu.
Meanwhile the inauguration of the new executive was scheduled to hold on 30th of April 2025.