By Pst. Kelvin Emeka Okeke

Rt. Hon. U.S.A Igwesi, Ikemba Enugu, is no stranger to the pages of Nigeria’s political history. A seasoned lawmaker, devoted public servant and tireless advocate for the downtrodden, he has long stood as a symbol of courage, resilience, and visionary leadership. His political résumé is nothing short of distinguished: Former Leader of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Former Member of the Federal House of Representatives, Former Chairman of APD,  National Directorate of Employment (NDE) and Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (MNIPR).

He is also the Founder and Convener of the prestigious Ikemba Friends Association (I.F.A) - a socio-political group incorporated with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), known for its influence and grassroot mobilization. He is highly honored with titles such as 'Ugonwanne 1 of Ogonogo Eji Ndiuno Uwani Akpugo, Ebubedike 1 of Ishi-Ozalla, and Gbim 1 of Obuoffia'  - each a testament to his deep-rooted connection to the people and his cultural heritage.

During the turbulent period of Governor Chimaroke Nnamani’s administration, Rt. Hon. USA Igwesi etched his name in the annals of Enugu State’s political history with an act of uncommon courage and loyalty. As the Leader of the Enugu State House of Assembly, he rose above political pressure and partisan gains to defend the integrity of democratic governance. When certain legislators moved to erroneously impeach the then sitting governor, Rt. Hon. U.S.A Igwesi fought gallantly to thwart the plot. In the moment that has become legendary, he forestalled the impeachment process, literally putting the attempt to rest - and the rest is history. That singular act not only averted a political crisis but also solidified his reputation as a fearless defender of justice and order.

As we celebrate this great man on his birthday, we remember with pride, the courage, wisdom, and sacrificial leadership he displayed in protecting the mandate of the people in the 2023 governorship election. Rt. Hon. U.S.A Igwesi remains a symbol of integrity and unwavering commitment to the values of democracy.

However, the story of Rt. Hon. U.S.A Igwesi would not be complete without recounting a season of great trial—an unexpected twist in his journey that would test the very fiber of his being.

It started slowly but could no longer be ignored. A man renowned for his strength and unshakable resolve, Ikemba Enugu, initially dismissed these signs as the toll of years of public service. But the diagnosis that followed changed everything. A rare, life-threatening illness was out to silence a voice that had long spoken boldly for justice and equity.

His faith in God, anchored by the unwavering love of the Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Dr. Peter Mbah, his family and friends, sustained him. That period became a divine moment of spiritual renewal and deep introspection.

Through it all, he never lost sight of his mission. In the silence of his recovery, he strategized. In moments of reflection, he found fresh inspiration. What many feared would be the end of a chapter turned out to be the birth of a new era.

When Rt. Hon. U.S.A Igwesi emerged from the shadows of illness, the people beheld a man refined by fate and inconquerable fidelity. His inner flame burned brighter than ever. His return to public life was met with joyous celebrations and emotional tributes witnessed in his 2023 and 2024 birthday events. It was more than a resurgence; it was a resurrection of purpose.

Now fully resuscitated, rejuvenated, and regenerated, Ikemba Enugu has re-entered the political space with a renewed sense of mission. Drawing from personal experience, he has championed reforms in the health sector, advocated for stronger healthcare infrastructure, and committed himself even more passionately to youth empowerment and grassroots development. His presence today is a testimony that true leadership doesn’t retire— it evolves.

As his birthday approaches on June 18, it is only fitting to pause and honor a man whose life is a mirror of resilience, service, and divine preservation. Rt. Hon. U.S.A Igwesi, the Ugonwanne, Ebubedike, and Gbim of his people, remains not just a symbol of survival, but a beacon of hope and a rallying point for generations to come.

His story is not just about political triumph; it is about the unbreakable human spirit. Indeed, true leaders do not fall — they rise again, stronger, wiser, and ever committed to the people they serve.

Pst. Kelvin Emeka Okeke is the Senior Pastor of Equity International Gospel Assembly, Enugu.