Catholics, others set to welcome Okogie in Edo today
From Mike Osunde, Benin
THOUSANDS of Catholic faithful in the old Benin Ecclesiastical Province geared up their preparation yesterday to welcome home Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie, the Archbishop of Lagos who is visiting his Edo home state today for the first time since he was elevated cardinal.
Okogie fondly called triple prince by his host, the most Rev. Patrick Ebosele Ekpu, the Archbishop of Benin, will be welcomed by Catholics, traditional dancers and dignitaries led by Ekpu.
Ekpu said by his elevation as Cardinal, Okogie has become a Prince of the Catholic Church, because he will not only be eligible to vote to elect a new pope at the death of the incumbent, Okogie is eligible to be voted for as Pope among the congregation of Cardinals from all over the world.
According to Ekpu, Okogie is also a double prince in Uromi and Oyo town judging from his paternal and maternal lineage.
Speaking in a special interview on television programme "The Catholic and You", Ekpu explained the significance of Okogie's visit and gave reasons why the world should not expect a black Pope soon.
Although there had been three African Popes in the past who were non-blacks, the prospect of a black pope soon would be dictated by the Africans broader view on life and the world.
Ekpu said since the days of the three African Popes, "many things have gone under the bridge, and we need to attain that status of maturity in our approach to things and keep behind us our tribal sentiments and injustice and have a broader view of life and of the world".
While appealing to every Edo man and woman to join him in welcoming the Cardinal, Ekpu added: "We should give him such a beffiting reception because he is our son. We should let him (Okogie) know he comes from a place and that we appreciate what God has done for him".
When he arrives today, the Cardinal will pay courtesy call on the state Governor Chief Lucky Igbinedion, and the Benin Monarch, Omo N'Oba Erediauwa among other engagements.
He will proceed to Uromi, his home town tomorrow for a civil reception, where he will also, dedicate the St. Anthony pro-Cathedral.
On Sunday, he will be joined by several other bishops from the province and neigbouring states to co-celebrate a Holy Mass at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Benin. He will be back to Lagos on Monday.
