By Akuma Ebere
Inspired by a popular song by Pata Rank which says, “celebrate me when I am still alive, not when I am dead,” the Onwudi family of Umuonyeagolu, Ezumeri, Oraifite, in Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State, recently marked the 70th birthday of their father, Chief Louis Nnebemchukwu Onwudi (Ichie Nnabuenyi), popularly known as Oluwa.
The celebration commenced with a Holy Mass at All Saints Catholic Church, Oraifite, presided over by Rev. Fr. George Ezeukpo, alongside numerous Catholic priests. Thereafter, the event moved to the country home of Chief Louis Onwudi for a grand reception.
The reception was a roll call of who is who in Oraifite, as captains of industry, politicians, community leaders, business gurus and other prominent personalities gathered to celebrate with the Onwudi family.
Speaking at the event, a speaker described Chief Louis Onwudi as a very humble, hardworking and honest man who started from a very little beginning and rose to his present level. He called on young people to always take life easy and emulate the lifestyle and virtues of Chief Louis.
On his part, one of the celebrant’s sons, Mr. Chibueze Onwudi, described his father’s life as a great teacher to him and his brothers, adding that they have continued to follow his good footsteps and legacy, which lies in strong virtues of life. He said the family deliberately decided to celebrate their father while he is still alive, rather than waiting until after his death.
Mr. Chibueze urged families to always celebrate their loved ones while they are alive so they can feel and witness such moments themselves.
The wife of the celebrant, Mrs. Rita Onwudi, thanked the Almighty God for witnessing the day and for a happy married life. She described her husband as a wonderful husband, praying God to continue His protection, mercies and good works upon him and the entire family.
In his remarks, the celebrant, Chief Louis Onwudi, who is married to Mrs. Rita Onwudi and whose marriage is blessed with twins,a boy and a girl, another boy and two girls, expressed joy and happiness as he thanked God for making the day a reality in spite of many odds. He stated that it is not easy to attain 70 years in good health.
Ichie Nnabuenyi thanked God for his children, wife and families, adding that God has indeed been very good to him. He also expressed appreciation to all those who contributed to the success of the event and to everyone who came out to celebrate with him and his family.
