Valentine Ozigbo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), candidate in the 2021 Anambra governorship election, was in Adazi-Nnukwu, on Sunday, February 13, 2022, to attend the thanksgiving holy mass in honour of Most Rev Dr. Jonas Benson Okoye, who was recently installed as the Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese.
Until his recent installation, Bishop Okoye was the Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Awka and succeeded Most Reverend Hilary Odili Okeke as the Bishop of Nnewi.
The thanksgiving service was held at St Andrew’s Catholic Church, Adazi Nnukwu, Bishop Okoye’s home parish, and attracted a host of distinguished guests and reverend fathers, including Bishop Peter Ebele Okpaleke of Ekwulobia Diocese; Rev Fr Prof Anthony Chiegboka, the Vicar-General of Ekwulobia Diocese; Fr Law Nwankwo, the Chancellor of Ekwulobia Diocese; Fr Aghaulor, the Chancellor Nnewi Diocese; and Fr Patrick Ezefunamba, the Cathedral Administrator of Nnewi Diocese.
While speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the event, Mr Ozigbo congratulated Bishop Jonas Benson Okoye on his installation. He prayed for a successful tenure that would edify the church and the people of Nnewi, in extension.
“Bishop Okoye has been one of those that I can call a father. Our relationship dates to several years ago, and he is one of those who I can confide in and rely on for wise counsel,” Ozigbo, a multiple award-winning global CEO, said.
“The Bishop is a leader with capacity, love of God, and is equipped for work in the Lord’s vineyard. I am confident that he will leave a legacy of godliness, excellence, and impact in this elevated position.
“I congratulate the people of Adazi-Nnukwu and Nnewi, especially the Catholic faithful, who are lucky to have an exemplary father and leader to be a shepherd in the diocese,” Ozigbo added.
Some of the dignitaries present at the thanksgiving service include His Excellency Peter Obi, the immediate past governor of Anambra State, who Hon Patrick Obi represented; His Royal Highness, Igwe Kenneth Orizu of Nnewi; Igwe Raphael Okpaleke of Amesi, and Hon Ndidi Mezuo.
Others are Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, the Founder of Jezco Oil; Chief Paul Okonkwo, the Founder of Pokobros Group of Companies; and Prof and Barrister (Mrs) Ken Nwogu.
