By Cajetan Mmuta, Awka
The ghosts of Nigeria’s first President Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, former Vice President of Nigeria Dr. Alex Ekwueme, former Senate President Chief Chuba Okadigbo (Oyi of Oyi) and ex-Director of the National Agency for Foods and Drugs Administration (NAFDAC) Professor Dora Akunyili were almost stirred alive on Wednesday in Awka the Anambra state capital.
The late eminent personalities from the state were honoured posthumously with the Anambra State Great Commander and Commander Medal awards by Governor Willie Obiano, for their contributions to both the country and the state in particular.
The awards climaxed the official commissioning of the multi million naira ten thousand seaters International Convention Center built by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) led administration under Chief Obiano.
Others also honoured by the governor during the ceremony which heralded a valedictory session, showcasing of his legacy achievements within the past eight years of his government and presentation of the book ‘Akpokuedike’ written by Price Ike Chioke, include former Secretary General is the Common Wealth of Nation, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, first republic Aviation Minister Chief Mbazulike Amaechi, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Mr. Peter Obi, former chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC) Chief Simon Okeke, Senators Ben Obi, Uche Ekwunife and Victor Umeh.
In addition, the governor appreciated members of the state House of Assembly, judges and captains of industries and other who have made their marks in various fields of human endeavours and to the development of the state.
Governor Obiano said all the awards categories were backed by Anambra State honors law of 1995.
He said the awardees contributed immensely to his 8-year administration.
Chairman of the occasion, Chief Emeka Anyaoku described the event as extra ordinary occasion meant to honor extra ordinary man with a sense of mission.
Anyaoku noted that, “Obiano remains one of the most prepared leaders Nigeria ever had. He really proved he was prepared for the office.
“I’m pleased to associate myself with obiano. I didn’t know him, but the predecessor who introduced him to me assured me he was capable.
According to him, “There’s no doubt that his administration has transformed the state in terms of security, infrastructure, among others. He’s living behind legacies that would not be forgotten in a hurry.”
Also, Obi of Onitsha Igwe Alfred Achebe described the governor as a man that ruled Anambra most successfully, including the support he gave to Royal fathers in the State.
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“I dreamt of Obiano before he emerged. He brought his banking experience to bear in the eight years he held sway. He gave the monarchs unquantified support. He presented over 60 certificates to traditional rulers,” he said.
It would be recalled that Obiano will leave office as Governor on March 17 as his successor and Governor elect, Prof.charles Soludo takes over the reins of power in the state.
However, Soludo was conspicuously absent at the ceremony which was attended by who is who in Anambra state.
