Eulogies As Bigwigs Gather For Sen. Nwobodo’s 85th Birthday In Enugu

It was a gathering of crème de la crème in Amechi Awkunanaw, Enugu South Local Government Area, last Friday, for the 85th birthday of distinguished Senator Jim Nwobodo, former governor of old Anambra State.

The jam-packed venue had family members, friends, political heavyweights and other associates from the social scene, who came in droves to celebrate the day with the elder statesman.

For his part, Senator Nwobodo, was all joy and smiles as he weaved to the cheering crowd, sharing jokes and small talks with all and sundry.

The occasion began with a pontifical high mass presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, the Most Reverend Callistus Onaga, who pointed out that Senator Jim Nwobodo epitomized selfless leadership.

He said, “He is a true Christian, a selfless leader, a man of integrity, steadfastness and uprightness. He is a living saint. He is very humble.His life has been a shinning light and his legacy will undoubtedly last forever.

“We came to rejoice with him and thank God for the gift of his life. I wish him a happy 85th birthday anniversary.”he concluded.

In a remark, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, said the life of Sen. Nwobodo was a living proof that true value of existence is anchored on selfless service, noting that nothing endears one to his people than such dispositions which Nwobodo represented.

He recalled the octogenarian’s outstanding service to Enugu State, old Anambra State, Nigeria, and humanity in various capacities, describing him as an epitome of excellence.

“It will be difficult to find words that amply capture the true essence of what Dr. Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo represents. Your life is a living proof that the true value of existence is selfless service.

“Nothing endears one to his people than selfless service. That is what you epitomise. The men and women gathered here today to celebrate you is a reflection of that selfless service that you have provided for the people of Enugu State and Nigeria.

“Today, we celebrate an extraordinary journey. We celebrate 85 years of impactful life, we are indeed very proud of you,” the governor stated.

Some other prominent Enugu sons and daughters who spoke during the occasion, described the octogenarian as a living legend, political colossus and father of politics in Enugu State.

For his dear wife, Dr. Patricia and his son, Jim Nwobodo Jnr, they found in him, a man who prioritized the well-being of others, even at a personal cost.

Also, Jim’s kinsmen, who earlier benefited from the free medical care organized to celebrate his birthday, paid tributes to him for the gesture.

Responding, Sen. Nwobodo enjoined leaders to utilise the opportunities God had given to them to work for the people, citing the Mbah example in Enugu State.

“Today, Peter (Mbah) is a success. Whether anybody likes it or not. He is a success because the results speak for him. Whatever he is in Enugu today was God’s design from time. God gave it to him. God inspires all that he is doing in Enugu today.

“Governor Mbah also listens. He really does. I suggested something to him not long ago. He reflected on it and told me that he would do it. Today, he is already doing it. That is how your know a leader that would go far,” the elder statesman said.

While thanking the governor for organising a state event to mark his birthday, Nwobodo said that Mbah had underscored the need to celebrate people while they are alive.

“I did not expect an elaborate celebration as this. But the governor insisted on celebrating me so well. He maintained that it was better to celebrate people when they are alive, to say all the beautiful things to their hearing. So, Governor, I thank you for this show of love and thank all of you, who came out in your numbers to celebrate me,” he added.

Also, at the event were the former governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai; members of the Enugu State Executive Council; serving and former federal and state lawmakers, Council Chairmen under the leadership of the Chairman, Enugu State chapter of ALGON, Hon. Okechukwu Edeh, as well as the traditional rulers led by the Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, His Majesty, Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu.

Others were Chief Ben Ndi Obi, one-time Special Adviser on Inter-Party Affairs to the President of Nigeria, Amb. Fidelia Njeze, former Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development of Nigeria, former Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Mrs Cecilia Ezeilo; and Archbishop emeritus, Enugu Ecclesiastical Province, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Emmanuel Chukwuma.

Enugu South LG Media