CHRISTIAN ABURIME
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR set the tone for a historic evening at the Light House in Awka, on July 18, 2026, where he hosted a state banquet in honour of the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Ozonkpu Victor Ike Oye, on his 70th birthday.
The event, which marked the first time the Anambra State government has organized a banquet to honour a private individual, was a profound testament to Oye’s legacy of leadership and service.
Governor Soludo, reflecting on the historical significance of their political journey, highlighted Oye’s unwavering commitment to the party. He recounted a pivotal 2016 encounter where Oye, as then-National Chairman, persuaded him to support the party’s vision.
“Fidelity to that conversation—Ozonkpu did not waiver for one day,” Governor Soludo stated. “You served APGA well, to the extent that our administration was birthed. It is historical. Today, we have come to celebrate Ozonkpu in the present. What we celebrate is for people to have a befitting life; it is silly to focus only on a befitting funeral. He is a builder who has left footprints, not just passed through.”
The Governor further emphasized that politics is ultimately about how participation changes the fortunes of the people, noting that Oye’s support for the current administration’s vision was instrumental in the ongoing development of the state. Looking ahead, the Governor remarked, “Ndi Anambra, more is to come, in the next three years. Today, we celebrate your mid-life. I wish you 140 years.”
You have lived a “Life of Impact”
The atmosphere was one of profound warmth and appreciation as political stakeholders and traditional leaders paid glowing tributes to the septuagenarian.
The current National Chairman of APGA, Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa, led all the members of the National Working Committee (NWC) in attendance, declaring: “Your achievements in APGA are unprecedented. Thank you for a great life of service to the party.”
Echoing these sentiments, the traditional ruler of Umueri, Igwe Ben Emeka, lauded Chief Oye’s character, praying for his continued health and longevity to witness greater milestones for the state.
In his response, Ozonkpu Victor Oye expressed his deep gratitude for the honour. He reaffirmed that his tenure as National Chairman was driven by a steadfast vision to ensure that APGA remained a potent platform for good governance and the promotion of the interests of the people. He noted that seeing the state’s progress under Governor Soludo—symbolized by the very venue of the banquet—was a fulfillment of the party’s core mission.
The event, which was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, members of the Anambra State Executive Council, party stalwarts, and various community leaders, was marked by cultural displays and a collective celebration of a career defined by integrity and loyalty.
