Residents of Igbere and other parts of Abia North on Thursday converged on Bende Local Government Area of Abia State for the Ofuji All-White Fireworks Praise and Worship Party, a New Year thanksgiving celebration hosted by philanthropist and political leader, Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso.
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The event, held on January 1, 2026, attracted political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community groups, and social associations from across the zone, and was marked by praise and worship sessions, soul-lifting music, and a display of over 3,000 fireworks shots to usher in the New Year.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Anyaso described the event as a thanksgiving to God for life, unity, and preservation, stressing that the celebration was not a political rally.
“This is not a political rally. This is a family gathering. Before party affiliations and elections, we are brothers and sisters bound by blood, history, and destiny,” he said.
He thanked God for the gift of life and acknowledged the presence of leaders and stakeholders across Bende and Abia North, noting that their attendance reflected unity and shared responsibility for the development of the area.
Dr. Anyaso used the occasion to commend the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, for what he described as bold and responsive leadership, particularly in the reconstruction of the Umuahia–Arochukwu Road.
“That road is not just asphalt and stones; it is hope restored, economic revival, and proof that leadership can work,” he said.
He further pledged continued support for the governor, stating that the people of Bende had consistently supported him at the polls.
“Bende has never failed you since 2015, and by the grace of God and the unity of our people, you will not lose a single vote in Bende come 2027,” Anyaso added.
The convener also acknowledged the Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, praising his resilience and service to the people.
“Your voice continues to resonate nationally, and we thank you for your continued commitment to the progress of Abia North,” he said.
In his remarks, Senator Kalu commended Dr. Anyaso for organizing what he described as a unifying and uplifting event.
“This celebration reflects our unity as a people and the importance of coming together to thank God for His goodness,” the senator said.
Speaking on New Year resolutions, Dr. Anyaso noted that while people are free to make resolutions, faith must be supported by action.
“I don’t strongly believe in resolutions without effort. Faith must be backed by hard work for any resolution to become a reality,” he stated.
On his expectations for 2026, Anyaso described the year as significant, especially with political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, but emphasized that his focus goes beyond politics.
“My expectations are centered on better governance, improved living conditions, and a better life for our people,” he said.
He also addressed security concerns, noting that while challenges remain, the situation is not as dire as often portrayed.
“People must remain security-conscious. Individual conduct and movement play a major role in personal safety,” he advised.
Dr. Anyaso explained that the New Year thanksgiving is an annual event under the Ofuji Movement, adding that this year’s celebration was expanded and moved from December 31 to January 1 to allow for wider participation.
The event ended with prayers for peace, unity, and prosperity in Bende, Abia State, and Nigeria at large, as participants welcomed the New Year with renewed hope.
