The Minister of Works, Mr David Umahi and former Secretary to Government of the Federation, Chief Pius Anyim, on Tuesday graced the 83rd birthday celebration of ex-governor of Ebonyi, Chief Martin Elechi.
Also in attendance at the event held in Abakaliki was former President-General of Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo.
Anyim, who was chairman on the occasion as the foremost founding father of Ebonyi, Elechi deserved more honours and awards due to his contributions in various fields in the state.
According to him, today’s occasion is not only for birthday but great opportunity to celebrate the foremost founding father of our dear state.
“His achievement today, is what we are enjoying. He secured the opportunity for our people. I, therefore commend Governor Francis Nwifuru for recognising him. I recommend awards for him as our foremost founding father.
“He is the father of democracy and development for the state,” Anyim said.
Umahi, successor to Elechi as governor, described him as a “legend” and prayed God to continue to keep him stronger.
Also speaking, Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi hailed Elechi on his birthday, noting that his contributions to the development of the state was a welcome development.
Nwifuru said Elechi had promoted the state as an agrarian state and congratulated him on his attainment.
Nwodo, a former President of Ohaneze Ndi-Igbo also congratulated Elechi on his new age and wished him more fruitful years ahead.
The birthday, held at Ecumenical Centre, Abakaliki attracted other dignitories including, the serving senators, Onyekachi Nwebonyi, representing Ebonyi North, Professor Anthony Okorie-Ani for Ebonyi South.
Others were former Gov. Sullivan Chime of Enugu State, former Minister of Education and ex-Ebonyi Gov. Dr Sam Egwu among others.