AASDU eulogises late Aka Ikenga president, Chief Ralph Eke in tribute – ITREALMS

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The Association of Anambra State Development Unions (AASDU) Lagos, has paid glowing tribute to the pioneer president of Aka Ikenga, Chief (Engr.) Ralph Umeadi Eke, Ozumba Awka, reports ITREALMS.

In a address delivered at the night of tribute by Aka-Ikenga in Lagos and made available to ITREALMS, the President of AASDU, Sir Amechi Ebeledike eulogised the former pioneer-president for his outstanding qualities.
"As pioneer President of AKA Ikenga, Ralph laid a raft foundation and a memorable connection with AASDU Lagos," he said, describing him as an "acclaimed old war horse, former member of its first Eleven squad in stature, service, patriotism, bridge building and 'Aku Luo Uno' philosophy ... hence a great friend of AASDU."

Ebeledike also said that Chief Eke who died at the age of 73 on April 21, 2021, knitted Aka Ikenga and AASDU have remained great rallying points for high profile Ndigbo and Ndi Anambra respectively.

Pointing out that Chief Eke would be passionately remembered by the older members of AASDU in particular, for his selfless and sacrificial services.

"He was a man seen as a jack of many valuable trades and without doubt, master of them all. Most importantly he was philanthropically effectively connected to his roots - he gave back to his people while his people appreciated and celebrated him in no small measure.

"Of all the numerous Honours and Awards he received in his lifetime, we were told he cherished very immensely for obvious reasons, the title Ozumba Awka," he said.

AASDU president equally lamented that though a big vacuum has been created by his untimely demise, "we are comforted by blossoming of the fruits of the great seeds he sowed and jointly nurtured with his heartthrob Cordelia."

AASDU President prayed that his name shall not only be a signpost but also open doors to his beloved children and other loved ones.

"May God grant his offsprings the unction in function to achieve lofty heights in his memory and of course greater unity in late Ralph Eke's family.

"Most importantly may his loving departed soul find peace and solace in the blossom of the Almighty God," he prayed.

Further, Ebeledike on behalf of AASDU Grand Patron the Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Maduabuchukwu Obiano (Akpokuodike), the Board of Trustees (BoT) headed by Chief Arthur C.I. Mbanefo (Odu of Onitsha), past Presidents, the Executive Committee and Representatives of more than 177 towns and communities of Anambra state resident in Lagos, paid a special tribute on a season like this.

"... With the hope that God will give us all the fortitude to bear this colossal loss," he submitted.

Chuks Egbune/Editor