...recalls late Chief Etim Reuben’s kindness, describes him as father figure
The Ebonyi State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Chief Stanley Okoro Emegha (JP), has pledged to build a bungalow for the family of his late former landlord, Chief Etim Reuben, in recognition of the kindness and hospitality he received from the deceased decades ago.
Emegha made the promise during a condolence visit to the family of the late community leader at Okopedi Itumbauzo, an Akwa Ibom-speaking community in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.
The APC chairman, who travelled from Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, to pay his respects, also assured the family of his commitment to working with them to give the deceased a befitting burial.
Chief Reuben, popularly known as Echo, was a renowned cocoa farmer and respected community leader who, in the late 1980s, accommodated Emegha by renting a house to him when he moved to the rural community in search of greener pastures after completing his secondary education.
Recounting the circumstances surrounding the visit, Emegha said he was deeply saddened by the news of his former landlord's death, describing it as a personal loss because of the significant role the deceased played in his life.
As Emegha and his entourage arrived at the family compound, some younger members of the family and neighbours appeared surprised by the visit, with many initially unable to recognise the prominent political figure.
The emotional moment took a memorable turn when an elderly woman suddenly recognised him and exclaimed, “Chimoooo, I can now remember! It's Mr Okoro!”
She immediately approached Emegha and warmly embraced him, prompting other family members to gather around the APC chairman. Some of them were either too young or had not been born when he lived in the community more than two decades ago.
Speaking during the visit, Emegha described the late Reuben as a mentor and father figure whose kindness and generosity helped shape the person he had become.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased's soul and for God to grant the bereaved family the strength to bear the loss.
The APC chairman further promised to attend the funeral and directed the family to immediately constitute a burial committee to begin preparations for the final rites.
He assured them that he would work closely with the committee to ensure that the late community leader received a befitting burial in honour of his life, contributions and enduring legacy.
In a further demonstration of gratitude, Emegha pledged to construct a bungalow for the family in honour of his former landlord, while assuring them of his continued support.
Members of the bereaved family expressed delight over the visit, describing Emegha as a man who remembers and appreciates acts of kindness, regardless of how long ago they occurred.
They also recalled fond memories of his time in the community, noting that many of them had not seen him since he left Itumbauzo more than 20 years ago.
The visit, they said, reflected the enduring value of gratitude, loyalty and the recognition of people whose kindness makes a lasting difference in the lives of others.
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