Personality
Former GM, Editor Graphic Newspaper, Fidel Egwuche laid to rest amidst tears
By Friday Idachaba
Former General Manager, Graphic Newspapers, Kogi State owned weekly tabloid,
Mr Fidel Egwuche, has been laid to rest in his country home, Omabo in Ibaji Local Government Area of the state amidst tears and wailing over his sudden death.
Earlier in a Requiem Mass in his honour at the Arch Angel Gabriel, Michael and Raphael Catholic Church, Gadumo, Lokoja, Rev. Father Rowland Nwakpuda of Abuja Catholic Diocese called on Christians to rededicate their lives to God in Service.
Rev. Fr Nwakpuda urged Christians to leave good legacies that would attract heavenly salvation and societal benefits and as well, be faithful, spiritually guided to make their paths straight.
The cleric noted that late the Egwuche, 68, who died on July 15, 2021, had completed his earthly sojourn but would be remembered by his worthy legacy toward the work of God and lives he impacted in the society.
In his remarks, the Auxiliary Bishop of Abuja Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Anselm Umoren MSP, who led the Bishop of Lokoja Catholic Diocese and 52 other Reverend Fathers to the Funeral Mass acknowledged that late Fidel Egwuche lived a fulfilled life worthy of emulation.
The Bishop and 52 orher Rev. Fathers were in Lokoja, in solidarity with their colleague, Rev. Stephen Attah Egwuche, son of the late Egwuche stressed the need for every living soul to have the fear of God in their daily activities “to straighten their kingdom paths”.
Receiving the remains of late Journalist and Administrator at Onyedega, headquarters of Ibaji Local Government, the Ejeh and Chairman, Ibaji area Traditional Council of Chiefs, Chief John Egwuemi, described late Egwuche as an ICON who always “bulldoze his way to bring smile to the faces of citizenry.”
Chief Egwuemi appreciated the legacy of late Fidel Egwuche, especially his contributions toward the socio-economic development of Ibaji and Kogi state at large.
Earlier, Chairman of Ibaji Local Government, Hon. Williams Ikojo, pointed out that the legacy left behind by late Egwuche, especially as the first Sole Administrator of the Local Government was unquantifiable “as we always consult him for administrative guidelines.”
The Chairman donated the sum of N150,000 un behalf of the council towards the burial and commended the Central Planning Committee, headed by Dr Jonathan Okpanachi
for its tireless efforts the success of the programme.
Our Correspondent recalls that late Fidel was a correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN); News Editor and later Deputy Editor, Sunday Voice Newspapers in Benue state; Editor and GM Graphic Newspapers after the creation of Kogi state in 1991.
Egwuche was the first Sole Administrator of Ibaji local council in 1996, Ex-Official member, Kogi state land allocation committee, Chairman state Action Committee on Aids, Ad-hoc committee member of the state chieftaincy review committee.
He was appointed permanent secretary in 1998 and later appointed special adviser to the governor on economic matters after his retirement from service.
Other appointments were: Special adviser on information, Special adviser on Bilateral and Multilateral relations, and Special adviser on inter party relations respectively.
Egwuche, born November 25, 1953, was buried in his home town Omabo amidst weeping, wailing and freely flowing tears from his six children and wife, Mrs Philomena Egwuche, family, friends, colleagues and well-wishers from all walks of life. (Ends).
Personality
Chief Ogwu James Onoja SAN: A Philanthropic Trailblazer in Kogi State
Chief Ogwu James Onoja SAN has established himself as an unwavering advocate for community development, philanthropy, and social empowerment in Kogi State.
His tireless efforts to address societal challenges and improve the lives of vulnerable groups have left an indelible mark on his community and beyond.
Chief Onoja has consistently provided food items and clothing to widows and elderly citizens, ensuring that they are not left behind amid economic challenges.
This yearly initiative served as a lifeline for many who struggle to meet their basic needs.
Through a regular financial support scheme, he provided stipends to vulnerable individuals, especially the elderly, helping them afford essential needs such as healthcare and food.
Chief Onoja’s dedication to improving lives extends to building homes for senior citizens, offering them security and dignity in their later years.
Chief Onoja has taken a proactive approach to community infrastructure, personally funding the grading and maintenance of a vital 23.5-kilometer road connecting Ogugu, Emenega, and other communities.
This road has improved transportation, trade, and access to education and healthcare, boosting economic activity in the area.
In 2023, Chief Onoja launched a ₦100 million scholarship fund to support students at all educational levels, including those pursuing professional programs like law.
This initiative has opened doors for many deserving students to achieve their dreams without financial constraints.
He has also invested in education by constructing classroom blocks at Community Secondary School in Emomoka, Ogugu, ensuring students learn in a conducive environment.
Chief Onoja’s sponsorship of the Unyi Ogugu football tournament provided a platform for youth engagement, promoting teamwork, discipline, and healthy competition while fostering unity among communities.
Every year, Chief Onoja organized free medical outreach programs to address the health needs of Kogi residents, ensuring access to basic healthcare for those who may not afford it otherwise.
Following security challenges in his community in 2023, he funded the establishment of a Civil Defence Corps outpost equipped with modern facilities and vehicles.
This initiative has restored peace and security in the area, allowing residents to live without fear.
Chief Onoja has funded the construction and renovation of religious institutions, including the largest Catholic sanctuary in North Central Nigeria at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Ogugu. His contributions foster spiritual growth and provide modern facilities for worship.
Chief Onoja also assisted young couples by providing financial support for wedding attire, ensuring they begin their marital journey with less financial burden.
Chief Ogwu James Onoja SAN has demonstrated that leadership is not defined by titles but by impactful service to humanity. His initiatives reflect a deep sense of responsibility, empathy, and commitment to the betterment of society.
In a world often driven by personal ambition, Chief Onoja’s decision to prioritize service over political aspirations sets him apart as a leader of rare integrity. His legacy is one of hope, empowerment, and transformation, inspiring others to give back to their communities selflessly.
Personality
Senator Echocho applauds Governor Ododo’s Transformative Leadership, at birthday anniverssary
Senator representing Kogi East Senatorial District, Isah Jibrin Echocho has joined the people of Kogi State in celebrating the birthday of Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo, commending his transformative leadership and people-centered governance.
In a heartfelt tribute, Senator Echocho described Governor Ododo as a visionary leader whose policies have laid the foundation for inclusive growth, infrastructure development, and social progress across the state.
Echocho, in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Mikail Ibrahim, highlighted the governor’s pragmatic approach to governance, emphasizing his strides in job creation, poverty alleviation, and community empowerment programs as key drivers of positive change.
The senator praised Governor Ododo’s humility and dedication, describing him as a unifier and reformer whose governance style continues to inspire confidence among the people.
He expressed optimism that the governor’s administration would sustain its momentum to build a legacy of prosperity and stability.
Echocho stated:
“As we celebrate this special day, we acknowledge Governor Ododo’s steadfast commitment to making Kogi State a model of progress and unity. His leadership has become a beacon of hope, fostering development and improving the welfare of citizens.”
He further pledged support for the governor’s administration, affirming his readiness to collaborate in driving initiatives that would reduce inequality, boost economic opportunities, and empower communities.
“As partners in governance, we remain committed to complementing the governor’s efforts in implementing policies that will uplift the people and enhance the state’s development trajectory,” Echocho added.
The senator also used the opportunity to urge residents of Kogi State to remain supportive and united, emphasizing that sustainable progress requires collective responsibility and partnerships between leaders and citizens.
While extending prayers for good health, longevity, and wisdom for the governor, Senator Echocho reaffirmed his belief in Governor Ododo’s ability to lead Kogi State into a new era of prosperity and growth.
“Happy Birthday, Your Excellency. May your leadership continue to inspire hope, drive development, and unite our people toward greater achievements,” he concluded.
Personality
Peter Obi Mourns Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, describes him as a “True Democrat”
Former Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections in Nigeria, Peter Obi has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Professor Humphrey Nwosu, former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC).
Obi described him as a “true democrat” and a pillar of Nigeria’s democratic history.
In a heartfelt statement, while writing on his X-Handle, Obi described Nwosu as an outstanding academic and a courageous defender of democratic principles, particularly during his tenure as NEC Chairman from 1989 to 1993.
Obi emphasized Prof. Nwosu’s pivotal role in organizing and upholding the 1993 presidential elections, a process widely regarded as one of the fairest in Nigeria’s history.
“For his role in that election, Prof. Nwosu’s name will remain indelible in the history of Nigerian democracy,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor however lamented the state of Nigeria’s current electoral process, noting that despite the resources and technology now available, the integrity and commitment to democracy exhibited by Nwosu under less favorable conditions have not been replicated.
Obi praised Nwosu for his adherence to truth and electoral transparency, contrasting it with the current challenges in Nigeria’s democratic system.
“Unlike today, when professors are sometimes procured to aid electoral malpractice, Prof. Nwosu applied the principles he taught as an erudite professor of Political Science, conducting an election that remains a benchmark for integrity,” Obi said.
Obi called for more leaders like Nwosu, who he described as willing to risk their lives for the sake of democracy.
He also prayed for God’s forgiveness for Nwosu’s shortcomings and for strength for his family and all those mourning him.
“May God Almighty grant Nigeria the likes of Professor Humphrey Nwosu in future elections,” Obi concluded, reaffirming his belief that a new and better Nigeria is possible.
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