An Octogenarian, Chief Silas Ejide, has called on all political exponents, irrespective of their political party, to embrace peace after elections to enthrone peaceful atmosphere for solid development of the state.
Ejide made the call in his country home, Enu-Agu quarters, Agulu, Anachoa Local Government Area of Anambra, on Saturday during his 85th birthday anniversary packaged by his children to thank God for his longevity.
Ejide is the father of former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Austen Ejide. He has many children with over 10 grand children.
He said that the call was necessity because of the poor manner the current political elites play politics that is full of blackmail and violence amongst other activities that make electioneering process a dirty game.
Ejide said that during his time, despite the fierce nature of politics, peace returned immediately a winner is declared and everybody gets to work to ensure that democratic dividend is achieved.
“We gather to thinker on the best way to develop the zone either to function as opposition who criticises objectively when necessary as a check to the incumbent, or holders of the power poised to better the lives of the people through instrument of political seats.
He regretted that “The reverse is the case now as violence and killing characterise the political process of present day. People have thrown caution away, youths engaged in political thuggery, we need political re-orientation” he said.
He appealed to all citizens of Anambra, irrespective of political affiliations, to embrace the incoming government of Prof. Charles Soludo as the next governor of the state as Gov. Willie Obiano bows out on March 17.
“Politic devoid of bitterness would create safe environment to do business, farmers will be in their farm lands happily cultivating their crops, civil servant, contractors, student and other political players would be on ground to put in their best,” he said.
Ejide said that people should live their lives knowing that they would give account of their existence on earth and advices the youth to embrace hard work and shun sharp practices for personal enrichment.
Ejide was a former councilor under the defunct NPP in former Njikoka, now Anaocha, and retired as successful businessman in Onitsha before he returned to his country home to join his kinsmen to proffer peaceful coexistence.
For his effort in enhancing peace in his community during its troubled time, Ejide earned the traditional title of “Stakeholder” (Odu Agulu), as a Chief.
Mrs Ngozi Ofoedu, the eldest daughter of the Octogenarian, described her father as a straight forward personality who treasures honesty and peace as a way of life.
“I am happy that I have a father who is disciplined and satisfied with the little he has. I have learnt a lot and am very proud to have him as my father, I wish him many more healthy years.
Mr Okeychukwu Ejide, his first son, said that God has rewarded their father with longevity in good health and disclosed that even at 80 years of age his father still drives himself around the community to attend to functions or conflict resolutions.
Mr Ezeugo Ofoedu, his first son-in-law who spoke on behalf of other sons-in-law described Ejide as a man of integrity and wished him more years.
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NAN reports that the highlight of the occasion was the gathering of the “Crème de la crème” in the community and musical presentations to mark the day.
