Ossai Success Ovie, an aide to the Delta state governor has lambasted Nollywood actress, Ekene Umenwa over her Virgin Mary-inspired maternity photos.
Ekene who recently welcomed a new baby shared her maternity photos online.
She said she was inspired by a vision Mother Mary gave to her at the grotto during her pregnancy. Her maternity photo shoots have generated mixed reactions.
In a post shared on his Facebook page on Friday, September 13, Ossai said it is inappropriate and disrespectful to the Catholic church for Umenwa to dress as Virgin Mary.
Ossai stated that her actions should not be encouraged while questioning if Ekene would have worn the outfit if she were a Muslim.
He wrote;
‘’I am disappointed and disheartened to see Ekene Umenwa emulate the portrait of the Virgin Mary, as it is not an accurate representation and it’s disrespectful to the Catholic Church .
The Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, was uniquely chosen by the Holy Spirit, and Ekene’s portrayal is totally unacceptable and disrespectful considering the fact that she was not impregnated by the Holy Spirit.
Ekene Umenwa would not be able to try this in other religions, such as Islam, as it is a unique aspect of Christian tradition and reverence.
While I congratulate her on the safe arrival of her baby, I believe this action should not be encouraged or supported, as it is a mockery of Christianity and the Catholic faith.
She should apologize to God and to us so her sins will be forgiven”
