From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja
The last day in the month of April ended on a remarkable note at the modest home of the Suswams as Mrs. Yemisi Dooshima Suswam, wife of Gabriel Suswam, former Benue State governor and current senator representing Benue North East celebrated the addition of another year of life.
The event held at the Maitama residence of the former first Lady of Benue was adrift from the traditional birthday bash as it was characterised with prayers, worship songs and, of course, every other entertainment elements required for a befitting birthday party.
As at 12pm, guests were already arriving in droves to the exquisitely decorated venue to honour an exemplary woman of valour, virtue, supportive helpmate and caring mother.
Men and women of timber and calibre, drawn from the clergy, political, public, private and business sectors of the nation spoke highly of the Ekiti State born architect, who can be best described as a woman who ticks all the boxes of godliness and glamour.
Former first ladies such as Mrs Alanyingi Sylva, Halima Wada, Jamai Babangida of Bayelsa, Kogi and Niger State respectively were among those who graced the occasion. Others included wives of serving National Assembly legislators.
As expected, prominent senate colleagues of the celebrant’s husband also attended the fete. They include Deputy Leader of the Senate, Senator Borofice Ajayi; Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu; Ekiti South Senator, Abiodun Olujimi and a host of others.
Members of the House of Representatives and Federal executive council weren’t also left out as Hon. Richard Gbande representing Katsina Ala/Ukum/Logo constituency and the Minister of Power, Engineer Abubakar Aliyu led their counterparts to the occasion.
Renowned men of God from the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and other churches were also on ground to fill the guests with spiritual food.
Shortly after the opening prayer, guests were introduced followed by the rendition of hymns, praise sessions, Bible reading and exhortation
Sumptuous meals were provided alongside assorted non-alcoholic drinks. Melodious music was provided by the amazing C-Clef Band.
Mrs. Yemisi was ably supported by staff, close family members, friends and confidants on the occasion. Despite being the celebrant, the ace architect went round at intervals to ensure that everyone was satisfied.
One of the highpoints of the event was the presentation a brand new car gift from her husband as a show of appreciation for the love and support she rendered to him and the family all through the years.
While the guests joined in sharing the joy of Mrs. Suswam over the receipt of her “new whip”, the arrival of the Senate Chief Whip and his lovely wife, Mrs. Ifunanya Kalu, signaled the cutting of the cake which was accompanied by photograph sessions.
With the guests sufficiently fed with both spiritual and physical food, it was time for the host to give her thanksgiving speech. Beaming with smiles, the former Benue first Lady gave thanks to God and appreciated all the guests for attending despite their busy schedules
Yemisi showered praises on her husband for his love and support, especially for organising the event in her honour.
Despite the outcome of her husband’s reelection quest, the assistant pastor of the RCCG said that there was a cause to remain grateful to God.
She said: “It is only God that will open your eyes to see what he is doing on your behalf. Then you will have cause to thank him well. God opened my eyes especially with the just concluded elections, we went round to campaign win or lose we bless God. This family has every reason to thank God because some people lost their lives during the elections, not because we are happy about it but we just have to thank God for sparing us.
“Words are not enough to thank all wives of every lawmaker and the members of the National Assembly. Let me specially appreciate my darling husband, Distinguished Senator Gabriel Suswam, a man with a large heart, who is a friend of everyone. You will always be my number one. My appreciation also goes to my pastors and other men of God present, thank you all for doing the work of the Lord, you shall not miss your reward.”
The programme of events was brought to a close with a prayer session led by Pastor Tayo Isaac of the Christ Love Church, who gave thanks to God for preserving and blessing the lives of the Suswams.
Afterward, some of the guests shuffled their feet on the dance floor.