By Uchenna Ezeadigwe
Awka
The Anambra Patriots, a socio-political support group for good governance and accountability in Anambra State, on Sunday celebrated three of its distinguished members who have recently attained higher positions in public service and society.
The event, held at the group’s secretariat in Awka on July 12, 2026, attracted members of the state executive, local government and ward executives, as well as other stakeholders who gathered to honour the recipients for their achievements and contributions.
In his opening remark, the traditional ruler and patron of the group, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Sir Dr. Ben Izuchukwu Emeka (Oke Ebo II of Umueri), said the gathering was organised to appreciate members who had been elevated to positions of greater responsibility under the administration of Governor Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo.
He identified the honourees as Arch. Okey Ezeobi, Commissioner for Works; Hon. Damian Enekwechi, who recently emerged Chairman of the Anambra Country Club; and Hon. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra ICT Agency.
According to the royal father, the achievements of the honourees demonstrate the quality and capacity of members within Anambra Patriots.
“This is a moment of celebration. We have gathered to congratulate these distinguished members and, at the same time, appreciate Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo for recognising competence and rewarding excellence.
Anambra Patriots is blessed with men and women of timber and calibre,” he said.
He urged members of the group to remain steadfast and committed in their various endeavours, assuring them that dedication and service would always be recognised.
Responding on behalf of the honourees, the Commissioner for Works, Arch. Okey Ezeobi, expressed gratitude to the leadership and members of Anambra Patriots for the honour bestowed on him.
“I am overwhelmed by this recognition. I am a son of a widow, and God has raised me from grass to grace. I sincerely appreciate the Anambra Patriots for finding me worthy of this honour,” he said.
Ezeobi commended the resilience of the group, noting that while many support groups had become inactive, Anambra Patriots had continued to grow stronger.
“I thank you all for your unwavering support and assure you that I will not relent in my service to the people of Anambra State,” he added.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Anambra Patriots and newly elected Chairman of the Anambra Country Club, Hon. Damian Enekwechi (Ozo Ejiamaatu), thanked members for the recognition.
He described the award as a collective honour for all members of Anambra Patriots who had remained committed to the ideals of the organisation over the years.
“We have many accomplished individuals within our fold who have distinguished themselves and demonstrated exceptional capacity in society.
This recognition belongs to every Patriot who has stood the test of time. I sincerely appreciate this gesture and will continue to provide purposeful leadership to the best of my ability,” he said.
In his remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra ICT Agency, Hon. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, expressed appreciation to God, Anambra Patriots and Governor Soludo for the honour.
“This recognition is unique and deeply appreciated. I thank God, Anambra Patriots and Governor Soludo for this honour. I remain committed to contributing even more to the technological and socio-economic development of Anambra State,”
Meanwhile, some of the dignitaries present were the Commissioner for Homeland Affairs in Anambra State is Chief Chikodi Anarah, House of Assembly Member representing Njikoka 11 constituency, Hon Jude Akpua, and Engr Anikwena Victor Ikenna (FNSE), Patron Oyi L.G.A. among others.
