By Tony Ezike
It was a day of glamour, unity, and pride in Igbo-Ukwu, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, as the ancient community rolled out the drums in honour of one of its illustrious daughters, Senator Uche Ekwunife (CON), fondly celebrated as Ifekaolaedo; the African Pride of Womanhood and Ada-Ugo Igbo-Ukwu.
The grand reception, held at the Central School, followed an earlier courtesy visit to the palace of His Royal Highness, Igwe Alex Azike, the traditional ruler of Igbo-Ukwu, where Senator Ekwunife received royal blessings and heartfelt prayers for divine protection, wisdom, and success in her political journey.
In his royal remarks, Igwe Azike described Senator Ekwunife as a virtuous and courageous daughter whose humility, compassion, and leadership have brought honour and visibility to the Igbo-Ukwu kingdom.
“Ekwunife’s light is our light; when she shines, Igbo-Ukwu shines with her,” the monarch declared, urging the people to rally behind her in all her endeavours, considering that so far she has never disappointed them from her days in the banking industry to her tenures as one of the most respected lawmakers at both chambers of the National Assembly. The Royal Father cautioned the people about mortgaging their votes and encouraged them to cast it for a better community and brighter future for the future generations.
The grand reception drew an impressive gathering of dignitaries, political leaders, women groups, youth organizations, and jubilant residents who came to celebrate the senator for her distinguished service, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to grassroots development.
During goodwill messages, Ichie Ezechukwu Umeokwenna recalled that the road across the Microfinance Bank was first initiated by Emmanuel Ogudebe, the father of Senator Ekwunife, describing the family as one known for selflessness and community service.
Similarly, Ichie Fabian Okeke and Ichie Ezechukwunoyelum paid glowing tributes to Senator Ekwunife’s late parents, Emmanuel and Lucy Ogudebe, recounting how their kindness touched countless lives. They noted that the senator inherited their passion for humanity, describing her as “a daughter who took after her parents in doing good at every inch of the way.”
Sir Jerry Jay Onyejekwe, in his address, decried the neglect of Igbo-Ukwu despite over 20 years of APGA’s rule in the state. “They have done all the roads in Isuofia but left us behind,” he lamented, assuring that this time, the community would vote massively for the APC.
Adding to the wave of endorsements, former Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Ikem Uzoezie, reaffirmed his support for Ekwunife’s candidacy, pledging both financial and logistical backing. “We are ready to support you with our resources and services,” he assured. He also commended the contributions of stakeholders such as Ari-King Ezeonyechienaedu, who donated ₦1 million, and Ezedike Obidike, who provided customized campaign materials.
In her heartfelt response, Senator Ekwunife thanked her community for their love and solidarity, recalling that she became the first female title holder in Igbo-Ukwu long before venturing into politics; a testament to her lifelong commitment to service. “Igbo-Ukwu is on the ballot, not just Ekwunife,” she declared to loud cheers.
The Organizing Committee Chairman, Okafor Uzu Ugochukwu, assured that the community would surpass its previous record of 4,000 votes, pledging total grassroots mobilization to deliver victory for their daughter in the November 8 election.
With cultural dances, traditional performances, and emotional tributes filling the atmosphere, the event not only celebrated Senator Ekwunife’s accomplishments but also reaffirmed Igbo-Ukwu’s unity, pride, and commitment to her continued journey of service and leadership.
