Venatius Ikem: A Successful Man at 60 – Sandy Ojang Onor
By Ndifon Joseph – Calabar
The candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 Governorship Elections in Cross River State, Senator Prof. Sandy Ojang Onor, celebrated Barr Venatius Ikem, the State Chairman of the PDP, as a successful man upon reaching 60.
On September 20, 2024, during Barr Ikem’s 60th Birthday Dinner and Foundation Launch at Event 45 Hall, Douglas Avenue, Calabar.
He also acknowledged the presence of Deputy Governor H.E. Peter Odey, who represented the Governor of Cross River State, emphasizing the importance of unity despite political differences.
“His Excellency the Governor, ably represented by the Deputy Governor, I am proud of your sportsmanship. It’s good to have you here; this is Cross River.”
In his tribute, Senator Onor described Ikem as a man who has achieved much and is poised for even greater accomplishments.
“Whichever criteria you used, whichever rod of measurement, from whichever perspective you’re coming; whether the inside-out perspective or the outside-in, the bottom-up or the up-bottom. Whichever way you choose to look at it, Venatius Ikem, you’re a successful man at 60. All you should achieve, you have achieved. But, you’re going to achieve even more.”
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He highlighted Ikem’s contributions beyond his family, noting his impact on the community, local government, senatorial zone, state, and nation.
“You have made worthy contributions not just to your family. You have contributed to your community. You have contributed to your local government. You have made huge contributions to your senatorial zone. You have contributed to this state. You have made contributions to Nigeria. We are happy to celebrate with you.”
Earlier, Sir Chuma Chinye, an Abuja-based party stakeholder, praised Ikem as one of the PDP’s early national figures, known for his courage and integrity.
“I have known Vena for a while. He was one of the earliest national officers of our party. At a young age, he served as National Publicity Secretary and spoke fearlessly. He remains a man of character.”
Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State, also honored Ikem, calling him a positive force.
“Vena embodies all the positives of life. I join him and his family to thank God for His grace upon him, wishing him good health and prosperity.”
In a goodwill message, H.E. Peter Odey, the Deputy-Governor of Cross River State, referred to Ikem as firm and uncompromising.
“I celebrate a great man who drew me into politics. If Vena stands against you, be prepared. We left the PDP because of Vena’s emergence as chairman of PDP, Cross River State.”
