Igbo-Ukwu Celebrates As Community’s 1st Graduate, Ezeife Turns 100

Igbo-Ukwu community in Aguata Local Government Area, the extended Ezeife family, other relatives, friends and well-wishers are celebrating thw centenary birthday anniversary of Ide Sir Justus Nkachukwudebelu Chinwike Ezeife, JP.

Born in 1923, Sir Justus, according to his autobiography, is the first person from the community, and the second in the old Aguata Local Government Area to obtain a B.A degree from the University of London, among other feats achieved.

The birthday celebration, which commenced with church service at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Igbo-Ukwu; attended by the traditional ruler of Ogidi community, Igwe Pharmacist Alex Onyido, his Ukpo community, Dunukofia Local Government Area counterpart, Igwe Dr. Robert Eze, members of DMGS Old Boys Association, Awka Diocesan Council of Knights, Idu royal cabinet, among other dignitaries.

The event is chaired by Professor Uchenna Nwosu.

In his sermon at the church, the Anglican Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, the Right Reverend Ndubisi Obi, who recalled the humble beginnings, academic pursuit and teaching career at DMGS and positive contributions of the celebrant to the growth of the church and development of the society, said celebrating one hundred years is a clear manifestation of God’s blessings and favor.

He thanked the church and Igbo-Ukwu community for investing in the life of the celebrant when mostly needed, and the celebrant for repaying the kind gestures, reminding all that life without societal impact is not worth living, and that christianity is not practised inside the church only, but in the larger society.

In their separate remarks, Igwe Onyido of Ogidi, Professor Ezechikwado Muo, on behalf of Idu royal cabinet, Igboukwu, and the Member-elect for Aguata Federal Constituency, Engr. Dom Okafor, thanked God for sound mental health given to the celebrant, who they emphasized did much for God and humanity.

President General of DMGS Old Boys Association, Dr. Eric Anazodo, and another member, Professor Anthony Agbata, described the celebrant as a man of so many firsts, one of the finest product of the school, great teacher and mentor, and prayed he enjoys more years in good health.

At a reception in his honor at Ihukaba, Ezihu village Igboukwu, the centenarian, Sir Justus, who earlier during church service read “prayer of dedication”, thanked all who gathered to celebrate with him, urging all to continue to have faith in God, live righteous life and help those in need.