Leo Ekene Oketa, Special Assistant to the Ebonyi State Governor on New Media, has expressed profound gratitude to Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, former governors, political leaders, associates, friends and well-wishers for their overwhelming support during the funeral rites of his late mother-in-law, Chief Mrs. Christiana Chika Nkwagu.
Oketa, who described the outpouring of love and solidarity as overwhelming, said the support received throughout the four-day funeral activities enabled his family to give the deceased a befitting and dignified farewell.
In a message of appreciation, he acknowledged the sacrifices, financial assistance, prayers, visits, telephone calls and physical presence of individuals and groups who stood by him and his family during the period of mourning.
He specifically appreciated Governor Nwifuru and his family for their kindness and support, while extending his gratitude to the families of former governors, Senator Sam O. Egwu and Chief Martin N. Elechi.
Oketa also acknowledged the contributions of Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi; Senator Ken Eze and his wife; members of the National Assembly; members of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly; the State Executive Council; and the judiciary.
Other individuals he appreciated included Chief Engineer Elias Mbam and his wife; Ambassador Frank Nchita Ogbuewu and his wife; Chief G.O. Ogbaga and his wife; local government chairmen; security agencies; and other political leaders and associates.
He equally recognised the support of the Izzi Nnodo Youth Forum, Abakaliki Recreations Club, FON Media Team, De Lamb Music Group, St. Leo De Great Christian Family and the Knights of St. Mulumba, alongside other groups and well-wishers who contributed to the successful funeral ceremonies.
While acknowledging that it might be difficult to mention everyone individually, Oketa assured all those who supported his family that their gestures of love, kindness and solidarity would never be taken for granted.
He further expressed special appreciation to his elder brother and father figure, Joemartins Nnanna Oketa, popularly known as Dike Eji Eje Mba II, and his mother, Lady Virginia Oketa, for their leadership and support in rallying the Oketa family around him during the period.
Describing himself as blessed to have such a supportive family, he said their contributions had strengthened him and his family throughout the funeral activities.
Oketa prayed for God’s abundant blessings upon everyone who supported them, asking the Almighty to replenish their resources, bless their families, grant them good health and reward their acts of kindness.
He reaffirmed his family’s enduring gratitude, noting that although words might not adequately convey the depth of their appreciation, the love and solidarity received would remain unforgettable.
