As former Governor Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Lawrence Ugwuanyi clocks 61, the air is filled with heartfelt tributes, with one of his former aides, Hon. Tochukwu Ogbodo, describing him as a leader whose life has left deep footprints in the hearts of many.
In an emotional, reflective birthday message sent to newsmen on Wednesday, Hon. Ogbodo praised the former governor not just for his years in office, but for the quiet strength, kindness, and compassion that defined his leadership.
Hon. Ogbodo, who served as a Special Assistant during Ugwuanyi’s administration, recalled how the former governor identified potential in ordinary people and gave them platforms to serve.
He noted that Ugwuanyi’s appointment of him into his government was a life-changing gesture, one that opened doors and built confidence. “He made me believe in myself and showed me the true meaning of leadership.”
The tribute also highlighted Ugwuanyi’s calm, humble nature, stating that he focused on building peace, unity, and the well-being of the people rather than engaging in empty rhetoric.
According to Ogbodo, his style of governance prioritized stability and gave everyone, regardless of status or background, a sense of belonging. “He carried everyone along and never closed his doors to the downtrodden.”
He went further to describe Ugwuanyi as more than a political figure, but a father figure to many who benefited from his generosity and humane approach to governance, while also expressing deep gratitude for the former governor’s constant display of patience, love, and sincerity in both public and private life.
Hon. Tochukwu Ogbodo, however, prayed for continued good health and long life for Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, adding that his good works will continue to speak for him long after today. “Many of us are better people because of him.”
The message reads:
EULOGY IN HONOUR OF RT. HON. IFEANYI LAWRENCE UGWUANYI AT 61
Today, as Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Lawrence Ugwuanyi marks his 61st birthday, I, Hon. Tochukwu Ogbodo, join countless others to celebrate this rare gem. Words cannot fully capture the depth of gratitude and respect I feel for this great man. He is not just a leader; he is a father figure, a bridge-builder, and a beacon of hope to many, including myself.
Throughout his time in office, Rt. Hon. Ugwuanyi touched lives in ways that will never be forgotten. His calm spirit, listening ear, and kind heart gave many of us the courage to believe in ourselves. I will never forget how he saw something special in me and made me a Special Assistant in his administration. That single act changed the course of my life and gave me the opportunity to serve and grow.
His leadership was never about noise or show. It was about quiet strength, humility, and sincere service to the people. He focused on the things that matter most — peace, unity, and the well-being of the ordinary man and woman. Under his guidance, Enugu State enjoyed stability and progress, and his hands always reached out to lift others.
Beyond politics, Rt. Hon. Ugwuanyi is a man of compassion. He never forgot the downtrodden. He carried everyone along, regardless of background or status. He is a leader who leads with love, a rare quality that sets him apart. His life is a lesson in patience, kindness, and dedication to humanity.
Today, as he clocks 61 years, we do not only celebrate his age, but the legacy of goodness, humility, and selfless service he has built. Many of us are better people because we crossed paths with him. His name is written in the hearts of many, not just for the positions he held, but for the lives he shaped.
On behalf of myself and the people who have benefitted from his leadership, I pray for God’s continued blessings upon Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. May his days be long, his health strong, and his joy complete. The seeds he planted will continue to blossom, and generations to come will speak of his good works.
Happy 61st Birthday, our dear leader, father, and mentor.
Signed,
Hon. Tochukwu Ogbodo.
