by Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has congratulated the traditional ruler of Osusu Aba in Aba North LGA and former chairman, Abia State traditional rulers council, Eze Issac Ikonne on the occasion of his 95th birthday celebration and 51 years on the throne.
Speaking at the Royal White House, 100 Faulks Road Aba, Governor Otti described the celebrant as a first class and resourceful traditional ruler, who contributed immensely to the overall development of his Osusu Aba community, the state and nation at large.
The Governor represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba while reiterating his administration’s commitment to fast tracking even developments across all sectors of the state economy, maintained that the glory of Aba, as the commercial nerve centre of the state and beyond is being restored.
The state Chief Executive lauded Eze Issac Ikonne for making accountability, transparency, uprightness and honesty his watchword as well as for maintaining the peace within his domain and upholding the customs and traditions of his people.
He attributed the celebrants longevity to the grace of God upon his life and wished him more fruitful years ahead in good health.
In his speech, the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Chief Emmanuel Emeruwa said he is happy to be associated with the royal family and charged traditional rulers across the state to emulate the sterling qualities of the royal father.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the occasion and chairman, Isiala Ngwa North traditional rulers council, Eze Okechukwu Atulobi while noting that it is good to celebrate one when alive, described Eze Ikonne as a role model.
In their goodwill messages, the Mayor of Aba North LGA, Ide John Udeagbala, his Aba South counterpart, Chief Uche Wogu, the member elect for Aba North state constituency, Chief Aaron Uzodike while congratulating Eze Ikonne on his double celebrations, called on all to join hands with Governor Otti in transforming the state positively.
Reading his father’s autobiography, Prince Rowland Ikonne, described his father and the traditional ruler of Osusu Aba, Eze Issac Ikonne as an embodiment of wisdom, and thanked God for his mercies upon their father and the royal family.
Responding, the celebrant and traditional ruler of Osusu Aba in Aba North LGA, Eze Issac Ikonne while recounting the journey so far, appreciated God for his loving kindness and mercies upon him as well as thanked Governor Otti, his royal family, friends and well wishers and all that came to share in his joy.
The event which featured prayers for Eze Ikonne and family, Governor Otti, the state, cutting of cake, musical performance by different cultural troops attracted top government officials, business tycoons, traditional rulers led by the first Deputy Chairman, Abia State traditional rulers council, Eze Nelson Nmerengwa, Hausa community in the state among others.
