Indigenous Spirituality Practitioners in Anambra State (Ndi Odinani) have criticized Governor Chukwuma Soludo over his recent statement referring to them as idol worshippers.
They described the governor’s remarks as a cultural misstep and a fallacious generalization.
The group argued that the statement unfairly portrayed the entire community of indigenous spirituality practitioners as criminals. While they supported efforts to combat criminality under any guise, they condemned singling out one belief system without applying the same scrutiny to others as an act of prejudice and injustice.
In an open letter to Governor Soludo, shared with newsmen via WhatsApp, the group emphasized the need for equity and justice. The letter, signed by Izuorah Nnamdi, Director of Lomat Global Resources Limited, was titled:
“Open Letter to His Excellency, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo (CFR), Governor of Anambra State, on Upholding the Constitutional Rights of Indigenous Spirituality Practitioners in Anambra State.”
The letter reads in part: “Your assertion that Anambra is a ‘Christian state’ demands careful reconsideration. Such a declaration is historically, culturally, and constitutionally erroneous. Christianity, as an organized religion, was introduced to our land by missionaries in 1857, a mere 168 years ago during the colonial era. Before this period, our ancestors thrived under a robust indigenous belief system — Odinani — which shaped their worldview, governance, and ethical structure.”
The letter further argued: “Anambra belongs, first and foremost, to its indigenous people, whose identity, spirituality, and customs are rooted in ancestral heritage. While Christianity is now widespread due to historical and colonial influences, it is an adopted faith, not the indigenous spirituality of the land. Designating Anambra as a ‘Christian state’ erases the legitimate cultural identity and spiritual sovereignty of its people.”
The group also pointed out that the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria guarantees freedom of religion and prohibits the elevation of one religion above others. Section 38 of the Constitution guarantees the right to thought, conscience, and religion, including the freedom to practice and propagate one’s beliefs.
They called on the governor to ensure inclusivity and neutrality in his leadership, stating: “Your role as governor, entrusted with upholding the constitution, necessitates a stance of neutrality and inclusivity, ensuring that adherents of Odinani, Christianity, Islam, and other faiths are equally respected and protected under the law.”
The practitioners also addressed the issue of traditional sacrifices at road junctions and water bodies, which the governor had criticized. They explained that such practices are deeply rooted in Igbo cosmology and serve specific spiritual and communal purposes. They proposed constructive dialogue with traditional custodians to find a harmonious approach, such as designating areas for cultural observances without compromising public order.
Concluding the letter, the group urged Governor Soludo to embrace inclusivity: “The strength of any democracy lies in its commitment to justice, fairness, and respect for diversity. You are a beacon of intellectual leadership and innovation. We urge you to rise above religious bias, embrace your role as a father to all Ndi Anambra, and lead with a renewed commitment to cultural inclusivity and constitutional fidelity.”
