By Ella Michaels
Evang. Ebuka Obi, Spiritual Director and Founder of Zion Prayer Ministry Outreach, made headlines by relocating his ministry's headquarters from Lagos State to Ngor-Okpala, Imo State. This move, driven by his "Come Down and Develop Our Own Home" ethos, promises to stimulate infrastructural development and economic growth in the region.
From August 23rd to 25th, 2024, Ngor-Okpala hosted an international crusade that drew attendees from around the globe, including significant donations from the United States. The three-day event was marked by a spiritually charged atmosphere, characterized by miracles, healings, and deliverances.
Evang. Obi used the occasion to appeal to the Igbo people, both in Nigeria and in the diaspora, urging them to return home and invest in their communities. He also called for continued prayers for Nigeria's well-being and for wisdom for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in addressing the country's economic and social challenges.
The crusade's finale saw an emotional tribute to Governor Hope Uzodimma, who had been instrumental in facilitating the event. Evang. Obi praised the governor for providing land and security, acknowledging his critical role in the success of the program.
However, Governor Uzodimma faced a challenging situation on the last day of the crusade. While initially absent due to legal matters in Abuja, he returned to Imo State with a Supreme Court reaffirmation of his gubernatorial victory. Unfortunately, severe traffic congestion on Owerri/Aba Road caused by the influx of attendees prevented the governor and his entourage from reaching the crusade ground. Sources indicate that Governor Uzodimma expressed regret over missing the grand finale.
Following the crusade, Evang. Obi-Zion and his team visited the Governor at the Government House in Owerri on August 26th, 2024. The visit was marked by prayers and a warm reception from government staff, who received blessings from the evangelist.
Despite traffic disruptions, no blame was assigned to Imo State's Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Dr. Benson Chika Abazu. Nonetheless, Evang. Obi-Zion encouraged the Commissioner to address the transportation issues in the state.
As the 100-day outreach concluded, the event left a lasting impact on the community, highlighting both the successes and challenges of such large-scale gatherings. The gathering saw over 3 million people from across the world, making it a historic event in the region.
