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By Sunny A. David, Onitsha
The Archbishop of Onitsha Catholic Archdiocese and Metropolitan of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke, has revealed that he finds greater happiness celebrating his birthday with inmates of the Onitsha Correctional Centre than among the rich and influential.
Speaking during his 72nd birthday celebration on Monday at the facility, Archbishop Okeke said the practice, which he has observed for several years, gives him profound joy and contributes to his longevity.
“Anyone who truly wants to celebrate my birthday with me should join me here at the Correctional Centre,” he said. “It is my way of showing love to the inmates and thanking God for the gift of life.”
The Archbishop explained that spending his birthday with inmates gives them a sense of belonging and reinforces the message of God’s love and forgiveness. He described thanksgiving and gratitude as essential virtues in Christian life.
“Thanksgiving is gratitude, and gratitude is appreciation for what someone has done for you,” he said. “Gratitude not expressed is not real. When you thank God sincerely, you attract more blessings and open doors to progress.”
Archbishop Okeke encouraged inmates to use their time in custody for self-improvement so they can reintegrate productively into society upon release. He also appealed to authorities to enhance the welfare of inmates by improving power supply through solar energy installations, which would help both inmates and officers stay connected, especially during emergencies.
The birthday celebration drew several dignitaries, including Senator Uche Ekwunife, the APC deputy governorship candidate; Sir Paul Chukwuma of the YPP; Chief George Moghalu of the Labour Party; and Primus Odili, former Chief of Staff to ex-Governor Willie Obiano.
In her remarks, Senator Ekwunife praised Archbishop Okeke’s compassion and dedication to prison ministry.
“The Archbishop’s consistent support for inmates is inspiring,” she said. “If elected, the APC will ensure that correctional facilities benefit from the dividends of democracy.”
She further promised to facilitate the provision of solar panels and inverters in all correctional centres across Anambra State and urged inmates to actively participate in ongoing skills acquisition programmes.
The Anambra State Controller of Corrections, Anslem Ike, described Archbishop Okeke as a blessing to the Correctional Service.
“Before coming to Anambra, I had heard much about the Archbishop’s humanitarian work. Meeting him in person is a privilege,” he noted.
To mark the occasion, Archbishop Okeke presented the inmates with various items, including toilet soap, tissue paper, laundry soap, toothpaste, biscuits, bottled water, a birthday cake, cooked rice, and two live cows.
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