Distinguished personalities across the country on Saturday eulogised former Ebonyi Governor, Chief Martin Elechi, during a special thanksgiving in his honour.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ceremony took place at his home town, Echialike in Ikwo Local Government Area.
Dignitaries who attended the occasion included Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, the Minister of Science and Technology; Sen. Theodore Orji, former Abia Governor and Lt.-Gen Azubuike Ihejirika, former Chief of Army Staff.
Others are former Inspector General of Police, Ogbonnia Onovo, former Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, and former Minister of Information, Chief Nnia Nwodo, among others.
In his remark, Elechi said that the thanksgiving was to appreciate God for His guidance and protection during his public service and endearing family life, among other favours.
“We are celebrating the survival of childhood challenges in a hostile environment and successful education in spite of ‘ups and downs of life.
“We are celebrating the rich blessings of a marriage, successful participation in public service through appointive and elective processes.
“We are also celebrating our triumph over organised treachery and iron-will determination to destroy the family,” he said.
He thanked the guests who graced the occasion and noted that he was stunned by the presence of the high and mighty.
“I am in awe over the presence of Prof. Ukwu I. Ukwu, who was my colleague in the first set of appointees in the East Central State in 1970, and is still alive,” he said.
Highlights of the occasion included a holy mass officiated by the Catholic Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese, Rt. Rev. Michael Okoro.
Elechi and his wife, Josephine, were also honoured with the titles of Ntonala Okwute (foundation of faith) and Nne Obioma (kind hearted mother) by the church.
The dignitaries took turns to eulogise Elechi, ascribing the peace being enjoyed in the state to his maturity and statesmanship during the 2015 political crisis.
The ceremony also witnessed the launch of a 361-page book on Elechi written by Dr Victor Kalu, a visually impaired political scientist.
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