A grand atmosphere of celebration and gratitude filled the air as Hon. Austin Anoh organised a thanksgiving Mass and reception in honour of his father, Chief James Achara Anoh, on the occasion of his 76th birthday and 40 years of distinguished service as a Traditional Chief.
The thanksgiving Mass, which drew family members, political associates, traditional leaders, and well-wishers from different walks of life, was officiated by Fr. Bob Ettah, who delivered an inspiring homily centered on gratitude, humility, service to humanity, and steadfast leadership. He described Chief James Achara Anoh as a man of honour whose life has remained a source of inspiration to many within and outside his community.
The event witnessed the presence of several prominent dignitaries and political leaders across the state, including the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem; Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Boniface Okache, who attended in a dual capacity on behalf of himself and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar; member representing Ogoja State Constituency, Hon. Thomas Aruku; member representing Bekwarra State Constituency, Hon. Omang Charles Omang; member representing Yala I State Constituency, Hon. Brian Odey; and member representing Yala II State Constituency, Hon. Martins Achadu.
Also in attendance were the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area, Hon. Egbung Odama; Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Area, Hon. Chris Agbeh; Nigerian Army Ogoja Area Commander, Major M. D. Mohammed; Vice Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Area, Hon. Glory Awowoh; and her Obudu counterpart, Hon. Rhoda Ashong.
The gathering further featured elder statesman and senior APC stakeholder, Chief Peter Ojie; retired Commissioner of Police, Omara Achong; senior party stakeholder, Joe Eweh; Director General of the Cross River State Insurance Agency, Chief Goddy Iyala; Sir Thomas Eweh; alongside other party leaders, traditional rulers, friends, family members, and associates who came to celebrate the revered traditional leader.
Speaking during the reception, guests extolled the virtues of Chief James Achara Anoh, describing him as a peaceful leader, a respected community figure, and a man whose four decades of traditional leadership have contributed immensely to the unity, stability, and development of his people.
In a touching highlight of the celebration, Hon. Austin Anoh presented a brand-new car to his father, Chief James Achara Anoh, in appreciation of his sacrifices, mentorship, and enduring impact on the family and society. The gesture attracted loud applause and admiration from guests at the event.
Hon. Austin Anoh, while expressing appreciation to all guests for honouring the family with their presence, thanked God for the life, strength, and enduring legacy of his father. He noted that the celebration was not only to mark a milestone in age but also to appreciate Chief James Achara Anoh’s remarkable years of service, wisdom, and dedication to community leadership.
The celebration featured moments of prayers, goodwill messages, cultural displays, and merriment as guests joined the Anoh family in celebrating a life of impact, honour, and enduring leadership.
