Ochendo @71: T.A Orji Is An Authentic Nigerian Statesman - Gov. Ikpeazu

Governor Ikpeazu describes the former Governor a proud Abian, an authentic Nigerian Statesman, experienced administrator and a shining example of the finest ideals of public service, noting that the life of Senator TA Orji has, in almost the last five decades, revolved around public service.

"As a graduate of the University of Ibadan in 1977", Ikpeazu notes, "young Theodore had several career options before him but he, to the surprise of many, chose the civil service of the old Imo State where he started his career as an Administrative Officer, from where he rose through the ranks by a dint of hardwork and the grace of God to the zenith of his civil service career as a Permanent Secretary".

"His subsequent move from the core civil service to election administration and delineation of constituencies in the then National Electoral Commission (NECON) where he served as the Administrative Secretary in Enugu State, to the office of the Chief of Staff to the Governor and his eventual election as Governor in 2007 clearly showed a man on a date with posterity", the Governor continues.

"Perhaps", the Governor added, "Ochendo's greatest legacy will lie on his insistence that the vision of the founding fathers of Abia State that no section of the State will be left out of the power sharing equation in the State be respected. By putting his feet down on such a sensitive matter which midwifed our administration, Ochendo etched his name permanently in the Abia folklore".

At the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria where he currently represents the people of Abia Central, Ochendo has proven to be a phenomenal federal legislator with his long years of experience in administration and politics providing the requisite reservoir of resource materials. These have manifested in his numerous legislative interventions as well as uniquely staying in touch with the people he represents through various schemes that touch their lives positively.

Governor Ikpeazu is of the firm view that at 71, Ochendo has paid his dues in every aspect of life and has done so admirably.

The Governor therefore, on behalf of his family, the Government and People of Abia State wishes Senator Orji a beautiful and peaceful 71st birthday with a prayer to the Almighty God to grant him many more years of fruitful service to our state.