Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Nsukka, Enugu State's Most Reverend Godfrey Onah has cautioned young couples about the risks of using social media to settle marital disputes.
In honour of Igwe Lawrence Agubuzu, the head of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, who was celebrating his 80th birthday and 50th wedding anniversary on Tuesday, Onah delivered the homily.
The liturgy was held in the Onuigba Palace of the former Ezema Olo Kingdom in Enugu State's Ezeagu Local Government Area.
The bishop said it was horrible that the entertainment sector was teaching young people that divorce was still acceptable in his homily, which was on the "Link between Wisdom, Faith, Gratitude, and Salvation."
He believed that the general public was misinformed by the media's favourable portrayal of divorce and the casual usage of the term "ex."
“Most recent couples are quick to use social media, especially Facebook and WhatsApp, to easily share their challenges in their marital homes and families, which is wrong.
“Two people living together sometimes have issues. It is better solved by the two people involved in marriage – husband and wife – and not involving multiple third parties via the social media space.”
To protect the institution of marriage as God founded it, he commanded, “I charge older couples to direct young couples aright and see that they tolerate and persevere in their marriages.”
Agubuzu was honoured on his eightieth birthday by the bishop, who praised the king for putting God first, giving thanks only to God, and expanding Christian values and morality in his country.
“We have seen your stride and how peaceful and with the fear of God, you have led this town and Enugu State. God will continue to bless you and your generation. Amen,” he stated.
Many catholic priests from around Enugu State, including the bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, Most Rev. Callistus Onaga, presided over the mass.