The Abia State Council of Knights of the Anglican Diocese of Umuahia has reaffirmed its stance on prohibiting the use of traditional guns, commonly referred to as Cannon or Egbe Mkpo N’ala, at funerals.
This decision was communicated through a communique jointly signed by Sir Nnamdi Asinu-Anosike, Chairman, and Sir Godfrey Anonye, among others. The communique was released to the media at the conclusion of the re-dedication of the Council of Knights, Diocese of Umuahia, Anglican Communion, held from Friday.
According to the communique, “The Council reiterated that there would be no Cannon shooting (Egbe Mkpo N’ala) before, during, and after the burial of a Knight or Lady.”
Additionally, the resolution emphasized the need for Ladies and Knights to lead exemplary lives to avoid being perceived as adversaries of the church and its mission.
The Council cautioned that any Knight who violates the oath of allegiance at any point would be stripped of their Knighthood.
Addressing the current state of affairs in Nigeria, the Council of Knights expressed concern over the declining standard of living and the rise in criminal activities such as insecurity, kidnapping, and robbery, among other societal challenges. They noted that these issues have contributed to an increase in individuals opposed to the principles of Christianity.