How is power used as a theme in swamp dwellers

Kadiye is the priest of the village. Moreover, he is the man who offers sacrifices to the Serpent of the Swamp in order to keep it satiated; this action keeps the villagers' land from being consumed so that they can grow food to survive. But, we learn that he is a man who is fat per the Beggar who hears in his voice that he is well fed compared to the rest of the villagers. He has been stealing the offerings of the people, their sacrifices to the Serpent of the Swamp and consuming them for himself rather than offering them up to the deity. And this betrayal is seen clearly by Igwezu who believes his wife leaving him and his money being taken is due to the priests wicked consummation of his worthy sacrifices.