NDC Candidate Hails Archbishop Okeke At 73, Challenges FG on Prison Reforms
By Polycarp Ifeanyi
The leading candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for Idemili North and South Federal Constituency in the forthcoming general election, Engr. Eric Anyamene, has commended the Metropolitan Archbishop of Onitsha, His Grace, Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke, for his remarkable philanthropy and humanitarian interventions, describing him as a rare gift to humanity and a true man of God with a heart of gold.
Anyamene urged governments at all levels to emulate the Archbishop’s humanitarian efforts by replicating his interventions in correctional facilities across the country to improve the welfare and living conditions of inmates.
The NDC chieftain, who holds the traditional title of Ezenwa Obosi, made the remarks at the Onitsha Correctional Centre shortly after a thanksgiving Holy Mass held to celebrate Archbishop Okeke’s 73rd birthday anniversary with inmates.
He described the Catholic prelate as an exceptional personality who, despite his exalted ecclesiastical position, identifies with the poor, the vulnerable and the downtrodden, demonstrating genuine compassion for humanity.
“People like Archbishop Okeke are rare. He is a king who dines with the poor and downtrodden, not minding his level. He has transformed the correctional centre with meaningful amenities,” Anyamene said.
He commended the Archbishop for his benevolent disposition, exemplary lifestyle and commitment to improving the welfare of inmates, noting that celebrating his birthday with them was a gesture capable of giving hope and reminding them that they had not been forgotten by society.
Anyamene prayed God to continue to strengthen and protect the Archbishop, granting him long life, sound health and greater anointing to discharge his pastoral responsibilities and shepherd the flock entrusted to his care.
“I say happy birthday to our Archbishop. May God continue to grant him strength and protect him. I thank him for celebrating with the inmates, at least to give them hope,” he stated.
The Idemili North and South Federal Constituency hopeful, who is also known for his philanthropic activities and close ties with his people, further praised Archbishop Okeke for his substantial investments in the Onitsha Correctional Centre.
He stressed the need for governments to take a cue from the Archbishop’s example by prioritising the welfare, rehabilitation and humane treatment of inmates in correctional facilities nationwide.
According to him, the Archbishop’s intervention demonstrates the significant role religious leaders, philanthropists and other well-meaning individuals can play in complementing government efforts to improve conditions in correctional centres.
Anyamene maintained that such initiatives should inspire a broader commitment to ensuring that correctional facilities provide not only secure custody but also decent living conditions and hope for inmates as they prepare for eventual reintegration into society.
