Nigerian Union of Journalist Anambra state Council led by its Chairman, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu has urged Governor Charles Soludo to Immortalise the legendary author, Prof Chukwuemeka lke for his unalloyed contribution to literacy and education growth in the country.
This also came as the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, of Onitsha, Prof Stella Okunna, Commissioner for Basic Education Mrs Chuma Udeh and the Immediate past Labour Party Presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi called on the students to imbibe good reading culture for future development.
The event which took place at the maiden edition of the Nigeria Book Foundation event in collaboration with the Anambra State Ministery of Education and Nigeria Union of Journalists, Anambra State Council was held at Prof Kenneth Dike Library, during the weekend with students, teachers, professors, traditional rulers, political office holders, media practitioners alongside stakeholders of the literary world in attendance.
According to Comrade Odogwu, he appealed for the immortalisation of the legendary writer and teacher, Prof Ike from the Soludo Administration. He said the late author stood out for justice and equity in his works as a true son of Anambra land.
In her opening remarks, chief organising committee, Prof Stella Okunna thanked all for honouring the invitation to celebrate one of Nigerian’s finest writers. She encouraged the younger generations to emulate the qualities of Chukwuemeka lke and imbibe good reading culture.
The former governor of Anambra state, His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi the special guest of Honour during his speech,’ stated that he has known Prof Chukwuemeka lke, since his secondary school days, which he was known for his famousity as a good writer and a strong advocate of due process.’ He further stated, ‘ that Eze Ndiikelionwu the XI is a celebrity in every part of the world because of his good works and knowledge’.
He urged the students to always take their Education serious, and poses good behavior so as to be celebrated, because no man can ever be celebrated for money rather they can only be celebrated for knowledge and good deeds just like pro. Kenneth Dike and pro. Ike.
Speaking at the occasion, the governor of Anambra state duly represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Basic Education Mrs Chuma Udeh said Governor Soludo is optimistic to establish facilities to enhance and promote education and good reading culture in the state.
“Chukwuemeka Ike is a genius. His writings stood the test of time and addresses society ills and verisimilitudes,” she said. In his keynote speech, “Remembering Chukwuemeka lke,” Director, Centre for Arts and lndigenous Studies,lBB University, Lapai, Prof Sule Emmanuel Egya appraised the legendary author for his impact to the literary world.
According to him, Chukwuemeka lke was a force to reckon in the Nigeria literature. He appraised his various works citing the didactic impacts on our Nigerian society. In his vote of thanks, the chief host, His Majesty Eze Iweka of Obosi 111 thanked the Soludo led government and members of the NBF for initiating the programme. He called the attention of the youths to identify, adopt and promote lgbo language and cultures. He advised youths to shun violence and cultism.
Side attractions at the event includes, poetry redemption of patriotic heroes by the Onitsha based Ajambele Kids, spoken words by award winning journalist, Izunna Okafor, poetic rendition by Chidimma Okeke titled in appreciation, ” Light at the Middle of the Tunnel, ” a playlet by the students of Capital City Secondary School and dance performance by Oma and Lotanna.