It was a gathering of who is who in Nigeria’s political circle, at The Treasure Suite, opposite the federal high court complex, Abuja where political giants of different affiliations converged for a send forth party organized in honour of Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Ireland and Iceland,Hon (Mrs) Ijeoma Obiezu, former chairman of Ideato North L.G.A as she relocates to her duty post.
Some of those who in their separate speeches, eulogized the amiable Ambassador, seasoned administrator and refined politician, include Distinguished Senator Ifeanyi Ararume who was represented by Hon Stanley Nzekwe, Chief Uche Nwosu, erstwhile Chief of Staff, Imo state government house, Hon Pascal Obi, representing Ideato North/South federal constituency in the federal house of representatives, who was also represented by his wife, Dr Jennifer Ifeoma Obi; Chief T.O.E Ekechi, a former commissioner for information in Imo state.
In his speech, Nwosu decribed Amb Obiezu as a go-getter and trail blazer stressing that Imo state was exporting one of her best to Ireland. He expressed optimism that Hon Obiezu will as usual excel in her present assignment.
He recalled that when they were in government Obiezu was rated as one of the best result-oriented officials.
Similary, Chief T.O.E Ekechi, stated that Hon Obiezu is a bridge builder which is why people from different political divides gathered to celebrate her. He prayed for a successive tenure as the Ambassador officially leaves for Ireland.
Others who spoke glowingly about the Ambassador, include the Rector of the Federal Polytenic, Nekede, Rev Dr Micheal C Arimanwa, who incidentally is Obiezu’s elder brother. Dr Arimanwa, in his speech, described Obiezu as an exceptional person, who right from childhood has always been a peace maker, a focused person who is always passionately committed to everything she does. “When she ventured into politics, we had no doubt that she would succeed, considering her antecedents, and what she stood for while at home”.
Ambassador Ijeoma Obiezu and members of the high table in cheerful mood during Send Forth
Speaking at the occasion, Ireland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Ronan Thomas Mullin , said he was delighted to be at the venue where Nigerians were celebrating the person who will represent their country in Ireland. He assured that, with Obiezu, there will be cordial relationship that will deepen Nigeria’s relationship with Ireland.
He further noted that about 40,000 Nigerians live comfortably in Ireland and their hosts are happy with them.
The high point of the event was the display of cultural dance by Imo women, Led by, Lady Prisca Durueke who mobilized Imo women to celebrate one of their own and the cutting of cake.
Other dignitaries who graced the occasion, include, former commissioner for Health, Dr Ngozi Njoku; former house of assembly candidate for Ideato North state constituency, Hon Ogechi Peters, former Chairman of APC in Ideato North LGA, Chief Luke Ekwneme, Comrade Precious Nwadike, Caretaker Committee Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Imo State Council who delivered the opening remark, among other dignitaries.
