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From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
Elder statesman and former governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo, has returned to his ancestral compound in Ugwu Agba, Amechi-Uno, Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State, following his emergence as the Onyeizhi Umunna (eldest man of his clan).
Nwobodo, who is 85 years old, was born on May 9, 1940. He was celebrated at a grand event in 2025, where the Governor of Enugu State, Dr Peter Mbah, described him as a “priceless gift to humanity” and a symbol of selfless service.
The former governor had, since 1999, relocated from his Enugu GRA residence to his Amechi home, which he built in 1978 before becoming governor during the Second Republic. However, on Sunday, he formally returned to his father’s ancestral home at Ugwu Agba, citing his new responsibility as the eldest man of his family.
Explaining his decision, Nwobodo said: “Since my elder brother could not accomplish returning to this our father’s house, I decided to return, especially now that I have become the eldest of our family.”
He noted that the occasion was not meant for lengthy speeches, stressing the importance of the presence of Governor Mbah.
“This is not a day for long speeches. The important thing is that the Governor of Enugu State is here. The governor has honoured me with his presence, and I ask the governor to prepare for 2027,” he said.
Governor Mbah paid glowing tribute to Nwobodo’s wife, Pat Nwobodo, noting that behind every ageless man is an iconic woman. He thanked her for the care and support she has given her husband over the years.
“I am fully honoured to be part of celebrating the housewarming of our father. You are a beacon who inspires me a great deal. Your footprint is all over the three states of Enugu, Ebonyi and Anambra, and that is a credit to you and the people of Nkanu land.
“You have inspired generations, and from what you have continued to do, the public knows their true hero, and that is what this gathering reflects. Our prayer is that God will continue to strengthen you. We pray for continued mentorship, as we will keep calling on you for guidance.”
Governor Mbah further described the return to the ancestral home as symbolic. “The housewarming confirms that there is no place like home. The ancestral home is a bond where we commune; it is an epicentre. I am glad about this homecoming. Young people are watching and will emulate this example. As you celebrate this house, may God continue to strengthen you in good health,” he prayed.
Earlier, during a homily after Senator Nwobodo read the first lesson preceding the celebration, Rev. Fr. Dr Kerian Onwuzu said the gathering itself was a blessing. “Because we are children of God and because we are in the house of one blessed by God, we are all part of the blessing,” he said.
Reflecting on Nwobodo’s public life, the priest added: “We all know Jim when he was in power. We thank God for keeping him alive to return to his homestead. He came to the market with a seat and asked everyone to sit down. He is not selfish, and since he is a good man, no harm shall befall him. Today, we bless him and ask God to continue to bless him.”
