By Ononye VC
It was all grandeur and flamboyance as the member representing Onitsha North and South Federal Constituency,Hon (Engr) Idu G O Emeka (JP) aka Ifemelumma,attended a thanksgiving mass at the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity,Onitsha on Easter Sunday.
Rector of the Basilica,Monsignor Nwokedi Francis Ezumezu presided as the Chief Celebrant representing the Metropolitan Archbishop of Onitsha,Most Reverend Valerian Okeke.
His immediate family members,friends,well wishers,various socio-cultural groups,notable dignitaries and political allies besieged the Basilica in demonstration of love and solidarity with Hon Emeka.
They include,His majesty,the traditional ruler of the ancient kingdom of Onitsha,Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe,the traditional ruler of Umeri kingdom,Igwe Benedict Emeka,the presidential candidate of Labour Party,Mr Peter Obi,senator (Sir) Victor Umeh,senator (Sir)Tony Nwoye,Hon Justice Okay,Hon Jessie Balonwu among many others.
In his homily during the mass,the Associate Rector of the Basilica,Rev Fr Emmanuel Megwalu,explained the true meaning of Easter which he pointed out,marked a new beginning and new life for christians.
According to him,Easter was a departure from darkness into light which every christian must illuminate inorder to be identified with the risen Christ.
In his remarks,the celebrant,Hon Idu Emeka,went down memory lane of his political career,stating that God has been faithful to him.
He pointed out that with his battle with a strange ailment and other travails which led him into 30 days horrifying coma in India,God lifted him up from the valley of death inspite of his various transgressions adding that as soon as he embraced Christ,he saw the light of salvation and fulfilment and eventual reward with an election victory into the Federal House of representatives.
He enjoined those who have not embraced Christ to do the needful and return to the path of light.
Hon Idu expressed gratitude to the Archbishop of Onitsha,Most Rev Valerian Okeke for his encouragement and wisdom and also in shepherding his huge flock and priests. He also thanked the traditional ruler of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe for his advises and peaceful reign in Onitsha kingdom.
Hon Idu expressed profound gratitude to the national leader of the Labour Party,Mr Peter Obi for his assistance in his victory during the elections and also thanked all who came around for the thanksgiving mass.
A grand reception was later held for guests at the Executive Fitness ground,Federal Housing Estate Onitsha,where various groups were treated to sumptuous entertainment.