A seven-day prayer, fasting and thanksgiving period has been declared in Abia State, as part of the activities planned for the inauguration of Dr. Alex Otti as the 10th Governor of Abia, on May 29, 2023.


The spiritual cleansing exercise, which already has the buy in of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state, is slated to begin with prayer and fasting on Sunday, May 21, 2023 to Friday, May 26, 2023.


In a statement on Sunday signed by Kazie Uko, Head of Media Sub-Committee of  the Organising Committee stated that the 'Abia State Re-dedication and Dr. Alex Otti's Thanksgiving Service', in Umuahia, capital of Abia State, is  aimed at ushering in a new wave of spirituality and would be rounded off with a "Re-dedication Retreat" on Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the open field of Ngwa High School, Aba, by 10 a.m.


The statement signed by Sir Uzor Nwachukwu and Mr. Bertrand Okeomah, Chairman and Secretary, respectively, of the Planning Committee, said that a post-inauguration thanksgiving service has been scheduled for Sunday, June 4, 2023.


The statement read in part: "Sequel  to the approved transition programmes of the incoming administration in Abia State by the Governor-elect, Dr. Alex Otti (OFR); a seven day  Abia-wide week of Re-dedication with Prayers and Fasting which will commence from May 21st – 26th 2023 in all homes, Churches and fellowships,  have been declared.


"The Re-dedication prayer retreat will hold on Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the Ngwa High School field  Abayi, Aba, by 10a.m. prompt.


"Similarly, a post inauguration State Thanksgiving service will hold on Sunday, June 4, 2023 at Umuahia Township stadium by 12noon prompt."


Meanwhile, the Christian Association of Nigeria in Abia has called on all of its member churches in the state to observe the prayer and fasting sessions.


The body in a statement by its Secretary, Dr. Mgbeahuru Okey, said the directive for the Church in Abia to be part of the programme was issued by the State Chairman, His Eminence, Apostle (Dr.) Emmanuel Otutubuike Agomoh.


"Let's join hands with other faithfuls in this all important assignment for a new Abia State of our collective dream," the CAN statement stated.