In a remarkable display of love and appreciation, the Odogwu family in Amanuke, Awka North Local Council Area, Anambra State recently celebrated the 80th birthday of Chief Samuel Agunwa, the 67th birthday of Queen Elizabeth Ijeoma Odogwu, and their 47th marriage anniversary.
The celebration of loved ones while they are still alive was the inspiration behind the celebration. The joyous event was organised by their children, led by Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, the family's firstborn and Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, (NUJ) Anambra State council.
The festivities commenced with
a heartfelt family thanksgiving at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Amanuke,
attended by esteemed individuals from various sectors of society. Notable
attendees included members of the UNIZIK family, the Anambra State council of
the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress
(NLC) and the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), as well as
Comrades Humphrey Nwafor and Chikwelu Adigwe. Additionally, members of the
Radio Television and Theater Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU), led by their Vice
President South East, Prince Emeka Kalu, graced the occasion, alongside
friends, well-wishers, and the people of Amanuke.
After dedicating the Odogwu
family to God for continued blessings and good health, Most Reverend Alexander
Ibezim, the Archbishop of the Anglican Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka
Diocese, spoke about the exemplary love shared by the couple. He emphasized the
virtues of patience, tolerance, and understanding as essential pillars for a
successful marriage. Expressing concern over the rising rate of marital
breakdowns, Most Reverend Ibezim advised young couples to anchor their
relationships on God for lasting success.
During the sermon, Reverend
Canon Rueben Okafor of Urum Archdeaconry acknowledged the couple's resilience
in overcoming health challenges and commended their children for providing
dedicated care. He highlighted the rarity of such grand celebrations for living
parents, contrasting it with the more common practice of elaborate ceremonies
for departed loved ones.
Following the thanksgiving
service, a lavish reception unfolded at Central School Amanuke, where the
Odogwu family spared no expense in treating their guests to delectable dishes
and assorted drinks. Notable personalities, including Chief Val Ozigbo, the
Labour Party Flag Bearer during the Anambra State gubernatorial election, and
Professor Stella Okunna, Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Paul University
Awka, lauded Dr. Odogwu and his siblings for their commendable gesture,
emphasizing the rarity of celebrating loved ones in such grandeur during their
lifetime.
Addressing the gathering, the
chairman of the occasion, Mr. Kingsley Uyammadu, expressed admiration for the
Odogwu family's unique celebration of their parents, noting the uncommon
practice of such elaborate events for the living. The celebrants, Chief Samuel
and Queen Elizabeth, shared the history of their life together, expressing
gratitude to God for their wonderful children who have risen to reputable
positions despite humble beginnings. Dr. Odogwu and his wife, Obialunamma,
recounted the challenges their parents faced during illnesses, thanking God for
sustaining them.
Another son of the celebrants,
Brother Ikechukwu, and his wife Chisom Odogwu, extended their gratitude to God
for their parents' lives, praying for continued unity within the family. The
celebration reached a vibrant climax with melodious songs by the Nkwa group,
young wives of Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Amanuke, and the cutting of the
anniversary cake, followed by a dance by the jubilant celebrants.
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