Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has celebrated former Chief Judge of the state, Justice Paul Obidigwe, on his 80th birthday, describing him as a distinguished jurist whose legacy of integrity, service and leadership has left an enduring impact on the state.
Speaking during the birthday celebration in Onitsha, Governor Soludo praised Justice Obidigwe for his lifelong commitment to justice and public service, noting that his contributions have continued even after retirement.
> “On behalf of the government and the good people of Anambra State, we are here to celebrate a man who truly deserves to be celebrated. His life has left Anambra better than he met it. It is not how long we live, but how well we live and the impact we make,” the governor said.
The governor also commended the former Chief Judge for recently leading the inquiry into the Awka kinship dispute, describing him as a statesman whose wisdom continues to benefit the state.
While addressing guests, Soludo used the occasion to raise concerns over the growing environmental challenges facing Anambra, warning that flooding and gully erosion pose serious threats to communities across the state.
He revealed that about 30 percent of Anambra’s landmass is already affected by flooding and gully erosion, blaming indiscriminate blockage of drainage channels and other harmful environmental practices for worsening the situation.
Governor Soludo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the environment, stressing that the recently declared statewide environmental sanitation exercise is part of broader efforts to safeguard lives and property.
“We will continue with regular sanitation exercises, tree planting, clearing of drainage channels and decisive action against illegal mining to protect our environment,” he assured.
The celebration also featured the unveiling of a commemorative book in honour of Justice Obidigwe and the ceremonial cutting of his 80th birthday cake, attended by family members, dignitaries, legal practitioners and well-wishers.
MukTV reports that the event served not only as a celebration of an accomplished jurist but also as a platform for renewed calls for environmental responsibility and collective action to tackle the ecological challenges confronting Anambra State.
