From Ijeoma John, Nnewi
Dignitaries from different walks of life have on Wednesday, January 7 poured torrent of eulogies on the
former Chair, Police Service Commission, Chief Dr. Simon Okeke (Ochendo Amichi) as he clocked ninety.
Chief Simon Okeke’s 90th birthday started with a Thanksgiving Service at the Cathedral Church of St. Andrew, Anglican Communion, Amichi, followed by reception and book presentation at the Super Royal Hotel, Amichi.
The Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo described Ochendo Amichi as an icon, whose contributions to the development of the country, Nigeria would not be easily forgotten.
Speaking, the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo described him as a symbol of dedication, resilience and service to humanity.
He prayed for continued good health, longevity and strength for the celebrant to enjoy many more impactful years.
Soludo noted that the milestone birthday serves as an inspiration to younger generations to live purposeful and meaningful lives.
The Honourable Commissioner for Industry in Anambra State, Hon. Christian Udechukwu called the celebrant a living legend whom they gathered to celebrate and to tap into his blessing.
“Ochendo global is highly celebrated Nigeria statesman, and a man who has distinguished himself in public service and service to humanity.
“He is a philanthropist and a father to many.He is a visionary leader, a man of integrity, kind and loving” Udechukwu said.
Senator Lilian Ekwunife, on the same note described Ochendo as a great man, who has impacted so much in the lives of the people.
“We are here to identify with him and wish many more years considering what he has done not just in Anambra State but for the Igbos and Nigeria at large.
“We are very happy and proud of him.I believe I will appear here again in the next ten years to celebrate his 100 years birthday” she added.
Prince Samben Nwosu, the Former Federal Commissioner for Public Complaints Commission (PCC) called the celebrant a living legend, who has contributed immensely to the progress of his community, church, state and country.
“Ochendo Amichi is somebody we have to celebrate especially at age 90.At his age, everyone wants to identify with him because of his life of integrity and I pray for many more impactful years” Samben Nwosu expressed.
The founder, Kingsley Obiukwu Foundation, Hon. Kingsley C. Obiugwu, a foundation established with the vision of creating positive and lasting change within communities said the life of Chief Dr. Simon Okeke evinces the importance of vision, wisdom and courage in leadership, adding that he would continue to inspire youngsters.
Others who spoke; Chief Ikenna Okoye, Ebubechukwu of Utuh, Rev. Cannon Everest Onyekachukwu, Prince Donatus Okonkwo from Ojoto, and Amb.Ozoemena Nworgu said Ochendo meant well for Ndi Igbo and Nigeria in general, congratulating him for distinguished service to the nation.