Member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Alex Ikwechegh, has expressed deep gratitude to Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, following the posthumous conferment of the Grand Service Star of Imo State (GSSI) on his late uncle, Commodore Amadi Guy Ikwechegh, a former Military Governor of Imo State.
The honour was bestowed during the Imo State 50th Anniversary Golden Jubilee celebrations, where the state government also granted Honorary State Citizenship to the Ikwechegh family in recognition of the late governor’s contributions to the development of Imo State.
In a heartfelt statement, Hon. Ikwechegh described the award as a deeply personal and memorable moment, noting that it represented more than a ceremonial gesture but a powerful affirmation of a life devoted to public service.
“To the public, Commodore Ikwechegh was a pioneering leader, a distinguished naval officer, and an erudite administrator who laid critical foundations for Imo State between 1986 and 1989. To me, he was simply Uncle Amadi,” Ikwechegh said.
He highlighted his uncle’s illustrious career, which spanned military training at the Nigerian Defence Academy and Dartmouth College, as well as strategic naval commands and leadership roles that culminated in his appointment as Military Governor.
Hon. Ikwechegh praised Governor Uzodimma for instituting the Imo State @ 50 Star Honours, describing the initiative as a clear demonstration of the administration’s commitment to preserving the state’s history and honouring leaders who contributed to its growth.
“As the only member of our family currently serving in government, standing there to receive this award carried the solemn weight of legacy,” he said.
He further thanked the Government and people of Imo State for remembering and honouring a man he described as selfless in service to his family, the state, and the nation.
“Your labour was not in vain. We remember. We honour. We continue,” Ikwechegh concluded.
