Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State, the Catholic Diocese of Enugu and other dignitaries on Sunday celebrated Monsignor Obiora Ike on his 70th birthday and 45 years of priesthood.
The event also marked the 40th anniversary of the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace (CIDJAP) founded by Ike.
The event which held at the Holy Ghost Cathedral, Enugu attracted government officials, Catholic faithful, some members of the international community, friends and well-wishers.
It began with a Holy Mass officiated by the Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Callistus Onaga.
Speaking at the reception, Mbah described the occasion as a triple celebration, highlighting Ike’s 70 years of life, 45 years of priesthood and four decades of institutional impact through CIDJAP.
He said Ike’s life exemplified wisdom, service, faith and action, noting that his decades of sacrifice and dedication had translated into profound contributions to humanity.
According to the governor, Ike’s ministry spans the pulpit, academia and social advocacy, describing him as a “champion of character” whose influence had shaped lives across generations.
“His life challenges us not only to dream, but to act. Faith must be matched with action. Even when the sea appears empty, we must keep fishing,” Mbah said.
He added that Ike’s commitment to education, youth development and human empowerment had made him a pride of Enugu State and “a gift to humanity.”
In his remarks, Chairman of the occasion and Chairman of the South-East Council of Traditional Rulers, HRH Lawrence Agubuzu, said the honour was well deserved, noting that the week-long celebration had sufficiently highlighted Ike’s impact.
Earlier in his homily, Auxiliary Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Ernest Obodo, urged Christians to embrace mercy, love and compassion, describing Ike’s priesthood as a living example of God’s grace expressed through service and evangelisation.
Also speaking, the Diocese’s Vicar for Priests, Very Rev. Fr. Victor Eze, who spoke on behalf of the Priests and Laity described Ike as a man of deep faith, intellectual depth and social commitment.
He noted that Ike’s 45 years in priesthood had been marked by fidelity, compassion and dedication to the dignity of the human person.
According to Eze, the founding of CIDJAP remains a defining legacy in promoting justice, peace and development.
Responding, Ike expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and recognition, describing himself as “overwhelmed and almost speechless.”
He reflected on his lifelong journey in the Church, recalling his early years as an altar boy at the cathedral and his encounters with past bishops who shaped his vocation.
Ike said the celebration was a moment of humility and thanksgiving, urging people to always recognise and celebrate goodness in society.
“We are not here to celebrate an individual, but to celebrate God and the good He enables us to do. Each person has a role to play in making the world better,” he said.
The cleric encouraged unity, service to others and commitment to faith, stressing that true fulfilment lies in contributing to humanity.
The event marked the climax of a week-long celebration in honour of Ike’s life, priesthood and enduring contributions to the Church and society.
