Odimegwu Onwumere, a multiple award-winning journalist and activist based in Port Harcourt has said that he needs ten percent of the N1 billion donated by Dr. Adedeji Adeleke to the Centenary Endowment Fund of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church’s headquarters in Lagos on August 18, 2024, in honor of his late mother, Nnenna Esther Adeleke.

Onwumere, who spoke during a media briefing on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, in Port Harcourt, highlighted that while Adeleke had a right to use his money in whatever way he may deem right, donating ten percent of the money to him would create a mindset for him to be generous as well.

Onwumere said he doesn’t see his move as tithing but as a way to instill a sense of purpose and fulfillment for the society in a country where lack of empathy, and immense penury have ravaged the fostering culture where helping others was once a shared value.

According to Onwumere, “It is commendable to note that Dr. Adedeji Adeleke donated N1b to the church but I need 10% of the money donated to me. This discipline will lead to me improving my financial literacy.

“The 10% that will be donated to me will contribute significantly to helping my immediate communities (who make of humanity) so that Adeleke’s initiative will further create substantial contributions and programs that will address pressing social issues such as poverty, education, health care, and environmental sustainability,” he said.

He said that he knows that receiving money allows one to meet their essential needs such as food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare; but this is not what he needs the money for. He says that there are fundamental requirements of many people for survival and maintaining a decent quality of life, and that’s what the money will be directed to.

Onwumere said the money will allow him to build an emergency fund for those in need, which can be crucial in times of unexpected expenses or financial hardship.

His words: "For Instance, equipping skill acquisition centres such as sewing, ICT, local farms will build a future for a spectrum of the citizens,” he says. He adds that thus security will help reduce anxiety related to financial instability for those who need help.

“I quite believe Dr. Adeleke has been helping the financially poor, however, the money will further create opportunities for growth with additional funds for many in the society, because I will have the opportunity to invest in the future of people especially women and youths.

“This could mean for them pursuing further education, starting a business, or investing in skills development that can lead to better job prospects and higher income potential.”

Onwumere said the money would also place him in a position where he can help others in need, because; “Generosity fosters community support and strengthens social bonds. By sharing the resources with others who want skills, he will contribute positively to society.

“When the prospective beneficiaries of the money complete the skills, it will give them more choices in life – whether it’s traveling, engaging in hobbies, or simply enjoying leisure activities without the constant worry about finances. This freedom will enhance their overall quality of life.”

Onwumere is of the belief that the potential investment of the 10% money when received can also be used for investments that may yield returns over time, such as stocks, real estate, or other ventures that align with the beneficiaries financial goals – when they must have gained skills through his prospective skill acquisition centres therefore making them to investing wisely which can lead to wealth accumulation and long-term financial independence.

Onwumere, who is also the Chairman of the Advocacy Network On Religious And Cultural Coexistence (ANORACC), a registered NGO that strives to fill the gap of perceived debasements in society, added that the 10% will create stability in his circle which is crucial for developing impactful programs that require ongoing support for humanity.

He believes that if the 10% is given to him, this ripple effect can amplify the overall impact on charitable causes as more people become aware of the importance of giving back. He also believes that when he receives the 10%, it can inspire others in their different communities or social circles to do the same.

According to him, “Like many religious traditions, tithing is spiritual and ethical to do so. Therefore, my request is not a tithe, but a spiritual obligation that reflects values such as stewardship, gratitude, and responsibility towards others in society.

“Those in the society who understand the meaning of tithe other than what they hear from the pulpit will attest to the fact that giving me the requested 10 percent will deepen Adeleke’s spiritual life and connection with other spheres that are not only the church.

“In honor of the mother’s memorial, the 10% will further help in building trust and the mother (of Blessed memory) will see tangible results her memorial has created as she has continued to support humanity even while in the grave.”

Odimegwu Onwumere underscored the fact that the 10% he needs to be donated to him will serve multiple purposes that will encompass generosity, promoting financial discipline, impacting communities positively, and strengthening and inspiring others to give. He said this aligns with spiritual beliefs and builds trust in philanthropy.

“The 10% donation to me will not only enhance individual lives but also contribute significantly toward creating a more compassionate society,” Onwumere concluded.

Update news