What explains the bishops’ visits to JEZCO?

By Valentine Obienyem

The visits of the clergy  and others to Chief Joseph Ezeokafor (JEZCO) following his release from captivity should not be considered extraordinary or surprising. In fact, they reflect a broader pattern of community solidarity that goes far beyond the Church hierarchy.

Across the area, the impact of his ordeal was felt so deeply that an entire community postponed its annual New Yam Festival in deference to his plight. Since his return, people from different towns and walks of life have been trooping in to offer their solidarity, relief and prayers.

To understand this outpouring, one must look beyond the immediate circumstances and consider how JEZCO has deployed his resources over the years. There is a long tradition of wealthy individuals treating their fortunes not merely as private possessions but as instruments of public good.

This brings to mind Cosimo de’ Medici, whose philanthropy extended to the Church, libraries, monasteries and civic projects in Florence. Cosimo’s remarkable attitude towards giving is exemplified in what he said: “Never shall I be able to give God enough to set Him down in my books as a debtor.” The sentiment captures a philosophy of wealth as stewardship rather than mere accumulation.

The same principle helps explain the affection and solidarity shown towards people who consistently use their resources to support others. The Church, like every enduring human institution, requires material resources to build schools, run hospitals and fulfil its mission. It is therefore only natural that clergy would hold generous benefactors in high regard. But JEZCO’s goodwill appears to extend beyond the Church to the wider community – through support for community development, assistance to the vulnerable and investments in human welfare.

When wealth is consistently deployed to touch lives, people remember.

This also brings to mind another famous maxim associated with Cosimo de’ Medici: “States cannot be governed with paternosters.” The broader lesson is that human institutions – spiritual, civic and traditional – operate not only on ideals and prayers but also within the practical realities of relationships, material support and mutual solidarity.

Seen in that light, the presence of Bishops, traditional leaders and ordinary citizens around JEZCO after his ordeal is hardly extraordinary. It is the natural expression of gratitude, respect and solidarity towards someone whose resources and relationships have, over time, touched many lives.