The Mpu community in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State erupted in celebration on Wednesday following the return of Mrs. Beatrice Ekweremadu, wife of former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, from a United Kingdom prison.
Mrs. Ekweremadu, who was sentenced to four years and six months in May 2023 for her role in an organ trafficking plot, arrived in Nigeria on Tuesday.
Speaking during the celebrations, the President of Mpu Town Union Federated, Mr. Benjamin Chijioke, described her homecoming as a relief for the people.
“Our joy as Mpu people knows no bounds. This is a great day for us. Since morning, it has been jubilation and celebration across all the villages,” he told Punch.
Chijioke further noted that the absence of the Ekweremadu family, known for their philanthropy, had left a void in the community. He said many community members were overwhelmed with tears of joy as they welcomed her back.
According to him, the celebrations coincided with the community’s Orie market day.
“We thank God and pray that He intervenes so that our illustrious son and leader, distinguished Senator Ike Ekweremadu, will soon return home in good health,” Chijioke added.
Ogbuka Edwin, the councillor for Mpu Ward, also expressed gratitude for Mrs. Ekweremadu’s return.
“It feels like a public holiday here in Mpu. The news brought so much cheer. We will continue to pray until our leader and hero, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, rejoins his family,” Edwin said.
Social media was also flooded with celebratory messages and prayers for Senator Ekweremadu’s return.
One message read, “Daalu Ezinne! But I can’t wait until I see Ikeoha Global! The man who made me who I am politically—a builder of people and structures.”
