We published a newsletter last week describing our need for what I inaccurately called a “security fence”. In this letter, I will address proper terminology and some questions that you may be asking regarding this particular HEAL project. Let me say, first, that the details of this security issue, which I will describe more thoroughly in this letter, are very real and necessitate the work we are currently undertaking for the sake of our mission.
With respect to terminology and the nature of the barricade itself, we are NOT constructing a fence but a cinder block wall. It will be approximately 8 feet high and encompass an area of about 146,900 square meters of property in the village of Umuagwu. The property is legally owned by Deacon Leo Okonkwo and Water for Life Mission, the exclusive mission partner of HEAL in Nigeria. With some seed funding at our disposal, we have commenced the project.
You may also be wondering about the high cost of the project that I cited last week. That the wall will be made of cinder block and mortar, in addition to iron reinforcement materials, should answer part of that question. A mere chain link “fence”, of course, would cost far less than the figure I indicated. Secondly, there is the cost of clearing away trees and bushes to make way for the construction. I should have included this aspect of the budget from my letter last week.
I also want to clarify the nature of the security risk that warrants such a financially expensive project. As I already explained, HEAL’s mission in Umuagwu, due to its increased notoriety and impact, has attracted both positive and negative attention. With respect to the interlopers seeking to build on our property, this wall project is our best defense. As Deacon Leo has said, “Justice in Nigeria is bought!” Demonstrating the ability to tangibly defend our own property rights will force otherwise corruptible elected officials and police to respect us.
Finally, the wall will also protect our students and resident orphans against kidnappings, which have been increasing in the area. Kidnappers go where the money is, and if one of our children or MOJ members were ever taken and held for ransom, it would be a huge blow to the mission. This security wall will virtually ensure that such an incident—by the grace of God—never happens.
We will be relying on organizational as well as individual sources for funding this project in full. Please be as generous as possible and help us keep the children safe and secure!