Tension as youths destroy shrine in Rivers

In Onne, a local government area of Rivers State, a group of youths have caused tension by dismantling a traditional worship shrine belonging to a woman known as 'Eze Nwanyi'. A video went viral, showing a pastor leading the youths into the compound, inspecting the rooms and collecting items they claimed were used for idol worship.

The youths stated that their community had abolished idol worship long ago. The pastor stated that they had received complaints about idol worship happening at the residence. He added, "We decided to come and see things for ourselves." Apostle Dandy and the pastor arrived on Saturday and witnessed the woman claiming that her activities were acts of worship.

They informed her that it constituted idol worship, which the pastor affirmed as being true after mentioning the event in 1973 when God purified the land and left a significant mark, preventing any idol worship for 35 years. The community vehemently condemns the destruction, stating they are deeply unhappy and this incident has broken a covenant they made with God in 1973, which has caused them significant concern.

They plan to seek forgiveness from the community. The pastor emphasized that they aim to send a strong message to any stranger or local person about their stance against such acts. They also warned landlords and local leaders to be cautious when renting out properties, as they have witnessed similar situations in other areas, but not in Onne.

A rights activist, Prince Wiro, condemned the act, urging for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, describing it as a violation of the woman's fundamental rights of worship.