Mbah celebrates legacy of service, humanity
•Governor extols cleric at 70 Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah on Sunday paid glowing tribute to a renowned cleric and scholar, Obiora Ike, describing him as a “champion of service
•Governor extols cleric at 70
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah on Sunday paid glowing tribute to a renowned cleric and scholar, Obiora Ike, describing him as a “champion of service and epitome of true character”, as he marked his 70th birthday.
Speaking at a grand reception held at Holy Ghost Cathedral, the governor hailed Ike as a rare gift to humanity, noting that his life had been devoted to uplifting society through selfless service, education, youth empowerment and job creation.
The event also marked Ike’s 45 years in priesthood and the 40th anniversary of the Catholic Institute for Development Justice and Peace (CIDJAP), which he founded.
Advertisement
300x250
Mbah lauded the cleric’s commitment to human capital development, stressing that his impact through CIDJAP and other platforms had transformed lives across generations.
“You have a man always talking about others without reference to himself. We thank and commend the church for making him available to share his insight. You are indeed Enugu’s gift to humanity,” the governor said.
Describing the occasion as a triple celebration, Mbah says Ike’s life reflects a rare blend of wisdom, faith, character and action.
He unveiled selected books written by the celebrant, alongside publications written in his honour, hoping the global community would continue to benefit from his vast knowledge and experience.
The governor urged Nigerians, particularly youths, to emulate Ike’s values of integrity, sacrifice and service.
Advertisement
300x250
“His life challenges us not only to dream, but to act. Faith must be matched with action. Even when the sea appears empty, we must keep fishing,” he added.
In his homily, Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, Ernest Obodo, praised Ike’s contributions to the growth of the church, especially in the training of priests and execution of development projects, describing him as a model of humility and dedication.
Read Also: Qualcomm: Nigeria, others’ startups push AI, 5G boundaries
Monsignor Ike expressed appreciation to Governor Mbah for attending the thanksgiving Mass and lauded his administration’s efforts in transforming Enugu State through infrastructure and development initiatives.
Reflecting on his life at 70, Ike described himself as a “servant” committed to doing God’s will and uplifting humanity.
“I feel grateful, joyful, delighted and happy,” he said. “I am just like a newborn baby… the work that God gives us continues. I don’t think about the years on earth; I think about the good things we are doing and how they serve humanity.”
He emphasised humility, dialogue and inclusiveness as guiding principles, stressing that true leadership lies in building bridges and fostering shared humanity.
“We are a global family,” he said. “We are not just ethnic or closed. We must live that others may live, share that others may receive, and support people wherever they are in need.”
