By: Ike Philip Abiagom
It was a historic and emotional Sunday in Igbuzo as the Charles Ashinze Obiodogwu Foundation recorded yet another humanitarian milestone with the official commissioning and handover of a newly rebuilt house to Madam Chekwube Nwose.
The ceremony, performed by Pastor Idowu Daniel Okeze (Odozi-Obodo Igbuzo), marked the triumphant conclusion of a long and painful chapter in the life of the widow — a journey defined by tragedy, resilience and, ultimately, restoration.
Speaking during the event, the Founder of the Foundation, Charles Ashinze Obiodogwu, described the project as a fulfilment of his divine mission to put smiles on the faces of the less privileged. He stressed that his humanitarian interventions transcend personal relationships, regional boundaries, religion and tribe.
According to him, as long as God continues to bless him, he will remain committed to assisting the needy with the little resources entrusted to him by the Almighty. He also used the occasion to express profound gratitude to his biological mother for her steadfast support and encouragement throughout his humanitarian journey.
Narrating the emotional background of the project, Dr. Pat Adigwe recalled how Madam Nwose suffered severe third-degree burns from a devastating fire outbreak just two days after the death of her husband — a heartbreaking double tragedy that shook the entire Igbuzo community.
In her darkest hour, the community rose in unity. Well-meaning individuals mobilised funds to ensure she received urgent medical attention at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), where she spent over a year undergoing intensive treatment and recovery.
Despite the enormous challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, including travel restrictions and health risks, members of the community remained steadfast in their support throughout her hospitalisation.
Upon her return to Igbuzo, the spirit of solidarity remained unbroken as residents once again rallied to facilitate the burial of her late husband in accordance with Igbuzo customs and tradition.
Hope blossomed anew when Mr. Charles Ashinze Obiodogwu, a philanthropist from Okpanam, through his foundation, expressed willingness to assist a widow in rebuilding her home. Through the introduction of Mr. Marvin Mordi, Madam Nwose was identified as a beneficiary of the foundation’s humanitarian outreach. Although the rebuilding project encountered several challenges, perseverance, goodwill and collective determination ensured its successful completion.
Today, the completed house stands not merely as a structure of bricks and mortar, but as a powerful symbol of compassion, unity and faith. Adding deeper significance to the occasion, Pastor Okeze, who was also marking his birthday, served as the Special Guest of Honour at the commissioning. In a heartwarming gesture that drew loud applause, he pledged to fully furnish the house within 48 hours.
In another remarkable display of generosity, Stanley Chukwudi Obodoagwu (Omereora I of Okpanam) donated the sum of One Million Naira (₦1,000,000) to Madam Nwose and further placed her on a lifetime monthly stipend of One Hundred Thousand Naira (₦100,000). He also extended his benevolence to other widows present at the event with a collective donation of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (₦500,000).
Community leaders and residents expressed profound appreciation to Comrade Obiodogwu and other benefactors, describing their gestures as genuine demonstrations of love, solidarity and commitment to humanity.
Indeed, the day will be remembered in Igbuzo as one of gratitude and fulfilment — a shining testament that when a community stands united, lives can be rebuilt, dignity restored and hope renewed.