A Grand Memorial and Monumental Legacy: Chief Samuel Anya’s father’s 22-Year Memorial Ceremony, Church Dedication and Senate Declaration
In what was an occasion of memorial, atmosphere of pomp and pageantry that had in attendance the 2nd citizen of Abia State, the Chief of Staff of the Rivers State Government and the former Speaker of the Rivers State Assembly, Chief Dr. Samuel Anya proved again his mettle and bravery linked to his title “AKAEKPUCHIONWA.” The event, held in Ohafia, Abia State over the weekend, marked the 22nd anniversary of the passing of Chief Anya’s father, an occasion that blended solemn remembrance with a celebration of legacy, faith and ambition. The highlight of the day was the dedication of a magnificent church edifice, a gift from Chief Samuel Anya to the Eternal Sacred Order of the Cherubim and Seraphim (ESOCS), consecrated by the revered Baba Aladura. Adding to the significance of the event, Chief Anya announced his intention to run for the Senate in Abia North in 2027, signaling his commitment to serve his people on a larger stage.
A Memorial of Reverence and Unity
The 22-year memorial ceremony for Chief Samuel Anya’s father was a deeply emotional and unifying event for the Ohafia community and beyond. Held in the ancestral heart of Ohafia and the headquarters of abia north, the ceremony drew a distinguished gathering of dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Abia State, the Chief of Staff to the Rivers State Government, and the former Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, alongside community leaders, clergy, and members of the ESOCS. The event was a testament to the enduring legacy of Chief Anya’s father, whose life was celebrated for its impact on family, community and faith.
The ceremony featured prayers, hymns and tributes that reflected the values of unity, resilience and spirituality that Chief Anya’s father embodied. As a titled chief known as “AKAEKPUCHIONWA” (a name symbolizing strength, vigor and leadership), Chief Samuel Anya used the occasion to honor his father’s memory by reinforcing his own commitment to community development and spiritual upliftment. The memorial was not only a moment of reflection but also a platform to showcase Chief Anya’s vision for a progressive Ohafia.
A Gigantic Church Edifice: A Gift to Faith and Community
The centerpiece of the event was the dedication of a grand church edifice donated by Chief Dr. Samuel Anya to the Eternal Sacred Order of the Cherubim and Seraphim, a denomination with deep roots in Nigeria, founded in 1925 by Moses Orimolade Tunolase. The imposing structure, described as a “gigantic edifice,” stands as a beacon of faith in Ohafia, reflecting both architectural splendor and spiritual significance. The dedication ceremony, presided over by the Baba Aladura, His Most Eminence Dr. David Bob-Manuel, was a moment of profound reverence, with prayers and blessings invoking divine favor upon the new sanctuary.
The church, built entirely through Chief Anya’s philanthropy, is a testament to his devotion to the ESOCS and his desire to provide a lasting spiritual home for his community. The Eternal Sacred Order of the Cherubim and Seraphim, known for its emphasis on dreams, visions, and faith healing, has a rich history in Nigeria, and this new edifice in Ohafia strengthens its presence in Abia State. The structure is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Chief Anya’s commitment to uplifting his hometown, providing a space for communal gathering, spiritual growth and empowerment. The dedication was marked by joyous celebrations, with members of the ESOCS from across the region, including the Aba Province, joining in to celebrate this milestone.
A Bold Declaration for Abia North
In a moment that electrified the gathering, Chief Dr. Samuel Anya bowing to pressure from his constituents, Ohafia citizens and the entire stakeholders of abia north announced his intention to run for the Senate seat representing Ndi Abia North in the 2027 elections. This declaration, made amidst the backdrop of the memorial and church dedication, underscored his ambition to extend his leadership beyond Ohafia to the broader Abia North Senatorial District. Known for his title “AKAEKPUCHIONWA,” which signifies a warrior-like resolve and leadership, Chief Anya presented his candidacy as a call to serve, rooted in his track record of community development and public service.
Chief Anya’s announcement was met with enthusiastic support from attendees, who see him as a transformative figure capable of addressing the challenges facing Abia North. His reputation as a philanthropist, coupled with his connections to influential figures across Abia and Rivers States, positions him as a formidable candidate. The presence of high-profile guests, including the Deputy Governor of Abia State and Rivers State officials, signaled the political weight behind Chief Anya’s aspirations. His declaration is seen as a continuation of his father’s legacy of service, with a promise to advocate for policies that promote development, unity, and progress in Abia North.
A Legacy of Leadership and Faith
The 22-year memorial ceremony, the dedication of the church edifice, and the Senate candidacy announcement collectively showcased Chief Dr. Samuel Anya’s multifaceted leadership. His title “AKAEKPUCHIONWA” encapsulates his bold, fearless approach to both community service and political ambition. The church edifice, now a landmark in Ohafia, stands as a enduring symbol of his commitment to faith and community, while his Senate bid signals a new chapter in his journey to serve.
The event was a powerful reminder of the values that drive Chief Anya: faith, unity, and a relentless pursuit of progress. As Ohafia continues to benefit from his generosity and vision, and as Abia North looks toward the 2027 elections, Chief Samuel Anya has firmly established himself as a leader whose impact resonates far beyond his hometown. The memorial ceremony was not just a look back at a life well-lived but a bold step forward into a future of promise and possibility for Abia State.
