- Receives royal blessing
By Valentine Amanze
Imo State Governor, Chief Emeka Ihedioha, has described the late Chief Anthony Iwenjiora as an accomplished leader, who left behind, worthy legacies.
He made the commendation during a visit to the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Alfred Achebe CFR, to commiserate with him on the passing of Iwenjiora (Asagwali Omeikpo), the father in-law to former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.
The governor stated:
“We are here because of the loss of one of your subjects, whose daughter, wife of the leader of our party and Presidential Candidate in the last election, is so dear to us.
“As a state and as a party, we have come to commiserate with you and to be with the family in this period.
“We thought it necessary, wise and customary to stop over, first to wish you well and urge you to take solace in the fact that God gives and takes when he so wishes”.
While wishing the traditional ruler well, Ihedioha prayed for long life and a successful reign in Onitsha Kingdom even as he continues to steer the ship of traditional rulers in Anambra State and the South East.
The former President Goodluck Jonathan who was also on hand with his wife, Dame Patience, to pay their condolence said, “Let me join the Governor of Imo State to express my greetings and deep condolences to you on the loss of your subject. Aside being the father of the wife of the former Vice President, he has paid his dues and indeed deserves our respect. Your Majesty, you have shown strong leadership in this country. I pray that God Almighty will continue to preserve you for us and also see you through your endeavors.”
Responding, the Obi of Onitsha, expressed gratitude for the visit and wished them a peaceful and successful stay in the state.
Recalling his long-standing relationship with Governor Ihedioha, he said, “Owerri is my second home. I pray that God will give you the strength to address the damage in Imo State. I know it is not going to be easy but I will continue to pray for you as well as contribute in my own way to your rebuilding efforts.”
Also, the former Governor of Anambra State and PDP Vice Presidential candidate in the last election, Mr. Peter Obi, joined the traditional ruler to receive the visitors.
In the company of Governor Ihedioha were; his wife, Lady Ebere, former Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Liyel Imoke, National Organizing Secretary of the PDP, Col. Austin Akobundu (rtd), Dr. Kema Chikwe, Hon. Jerry Alagboso, Hon. Bede Eke, Hon. Rufus Omeire, Sir Martin Ejiogu, Mr. Paschal Madu, among others.