By Uchenna Eletuo
No fewer than 211 widows and other vulnerable persons have benefited from another round of humanitarian support by the Traditional Ruler and philanthropist, Eze Chika Nwokedi, as part of his long-standing charity programme aimed at improving the welfare of the less privileged.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that, the pro-life support scheme, held in Lagos, is one of the philanthropist’s interventions organised two to three times annually, a commitment he holds dearly and has sustained for nearly a decade in fulfilment of what he describes as his pledge to humanity.
The beneficiaries received food items and other forms of support, while several widows, community members and leaders praised the monarch for his consistency in providing relief in spite of the prevailing economic hardship.
Addressing participants, at the event,Eze Nwokedi reiterated that charity remains a divine calling and urged individuals blessed with resources to extend helping hands to those in need.
He disclosed that beyond distributing food, he also sponsors the education of several children and provides financial support to those seeking means of livelihood.
“I pay school fees for some children and assist people in different ways. Whatever I do is for humanity, and I believe God will continue to reward everyone who cares for the needy,” he said.
The event featured prayers led by a Gospel Minister, Mrs Kelechi Ezenwata, who described caring for widows as a biblical injunction.
Quoting from the books of Isaiah, James and First Peter, the cleric encouraged widows not to lose hope in spite of their circumstances, assuring them that God remains their protector and provider.
They also offered special prayers for Eze Nwokedi, asking God to preserve and prosper him for continually touching lives through his generosity.
One of the ministers noted that the monarch’s consistent support for widows and vulnerable persons demonstrates “Christ-Like” as described in the scriptures.
“It is not easy for one individual to continually cater for 211 widows in this difficult economy. It takes a heart filled with compassion and genuine love for humanity. We pray that God continues to strengthen and protect him,” he said.
Speaking further during the event, Eze Chika Nwokedi attributed the sustainability of his humanitarian activities to the unwavering support of his wife, Pastor Tessy Chika Nwokedi, the Ugoeze of Ijegun-Ijedodo.
The monarch described his wife as the pillar behind his humanitarian mission, noting that she has consistently encouraged and supported his commitment to helping widows, the elderly and other vulnerable members of society.
According to him, rather than discouraging his charitable interventions despite the enormous resources required, the Ugoeze continually commends and motivates him to extend kindness to those in need, a support he said has contributed immensely to the success and longevity of the initiative.
Several beneficiaries shared emotional testimonies of how the monarch’s interventions have transformed their lives over the years.
Mrs. Anu Olumikeye, who has benefited from the programme for four years, described Eze Nwokedi as her destiny helper.
According to her, beyond receiving food items, the monarch once provided financial support that enabled her to establish a Point-of-Sale (POS) business, which remains her source of income.
“He has been putting food on my table for years. When I wanted to start a business, I approached him, and he immediately gave me money to establish a POS business. That business is still sustaining me today. Apart from God, he has been my helper,” she said.
“I am from Osun State, but he never considers whether you are Yoruba, Igbo or from any other tribe before helping you. He assists anyone in genuine need. I wish more leaders would emulate this example.”
Another beneficiary, Mrs. Oluwakemi Adekemi, said she has consistently benefited from the programme for three years.
She noted that the food support has significantly eased the burden of caring for her family.
“I pray that God continues to bless everyone supporting this programme. May they never lack, and may the source of these blessings never run dry,” she prayed.
Similarly, Mrs. Rita Anabogu from Anambra State, who has participated in the programme for four years, described Eze Nwokedi as a leader with an uncommon passion for humanity.
She said the monarch regularly assists members of the community beyond food distribution, including intervening in family disputes and helping people facing legal or police-related challenges.
“He is a man with a golden heart. He doesn’t only give food; he stands by people in their moments of difficulty. I encourage those who are yet to identify with this community to come and experience the love and support we receive here,” she said.
In addition to the widows, dedicated members of the Igbo Speaking Community and Ohanaeze Ndigbo who have remained committed to the activities and development of the community also received food items and welfare packages during the outreach.
The gesture, beneficiaries said, reflects Eze Nwokedi’s inclusive approach to community service, as he continues to support not only widows but also faithful community members and other vulnerable persons irrespective of ethnic or religious affiliation.
Chairman of the Igbo Speaking Community in Ijegun-Ijedodo, Chief Ibezim Ibeachusi, also applauded the monarch’s leadership style.
He observed that unlike many traditional rulers who constantly seek contributions from their subjects, Eze Nwokedi has dedicated himself to giving back to the people.
“He is one king who believes in giving rather than taking. Widows, widowers and the less privileged have continued to benefit from his generosity for years. I urge other leaders to emulate his example because the hand that gives will always remain blessed,” he stated.
In recognition of his contributions to humanity, Eze Nwokedi was also presented with copies of the book “Dingi Omo” (Fatherhood) by its author, Oluwatoyin Mathnuel.
The memoir, which celebrates the sacrifices and responsibilities of fatherhood through the story of the author’s late father, also features a review highlighting Eze Nwokedi’s humanitarian lifestyle and exemplary fatherly role in society.
According to the author, the monarch’s consistent compassion, generosity and commitment to raising hope among vulnerable people embody the ideals of responsible fatherhood celebrated in the publication.
(NAN)
