By : Ike Philip Abiagom
The numerous empowerment programmes championed by Pastor Idowu Chukwudi Okeze through the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation have continued to attract widespread commendation from residents of Igbuzo, who described his humanitarian services as genuine, people-oriented, and completely free from political influence.
For several years, the foundation has remained actively involved in improving the lives of the people through various interventions, including human capital development, scholarship schemes, tricycle empowerment, free medical outreach programmes, widows’ support initiatives, cash empowerment, health insurance schemes for vulnerable persons, Christmas packages for the less privileged, youth skill acquisition programmes, and vocational training aimed at reducing unemployment among youths.
The foundation has also facilitated several empowerment opportunities attracted from the Federal Government, thereby expanding support for many residents and creating more opportunities for community development.
Many beneficiaries and community stakeholders have maintained that Pastor Okeze’s commitment to the growth and development of Igbuzo goes beyond politics, stressing that his passion for community service is deeply rooted in his love for his hometown and its people.
According to residents, Pastor Okeze has consistently demonstrated uncommon dedication toward the progress of Igbuzo by supporting both indigenes and non-indigenes residing in the community without discrimination.
Community members noted that his empowerment programmes were never designed as political tools or avenues for personal gain, but rather as sincere efforts aimed at uplifting the less privileged, restoring hope to vulnerable families, and creating opportunities for young people to become self-reliant.
Speaking on recent criticisms trailing the foundation’s activities during the World Asthma Day event held on May 5, 2026, at the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Event Centre, some concerned residents condemned attempts by certain individuals to politicize the foundation’s humanitarian efforts.
The event, which featured free medical services, asthma awareness campaigns, and support programmes for vulnerable persons, reportedly attracted a large number of beneficiaries from within and outside the community.
However, some individuals at the event allegedly claimed that the empowerment programmes carried out by the foundation were politically motivated and not genuine.
Reacting to the allegations, supporters of the foundation described such comments as unfortunate, misleading, and unfair, insisting that the visible impact of Pastor Okeze’s interventions across Igbuzo speaks louder than mere criticisms.
They further stated that Pastor Okeze’s empowerment record remains unprecedented in the history of the community, noting that countless families, youths, widows, students, and vulnerable persons have benefited directly from his generosity and community-driven initiatives.
Residents also praised the cleric for maintaining consistency in his philanthropic activities despite prevailing economic challenges in the country, emphasizing that his programmes have continued to restore hope, improve livelihoods, and strengthen grassroots development across different sectors of the community.
Many described Pastor Okeze as one of the foremost advocates of grassroots empowerment in Igbuzo, adding that his passion for service, humility, and dedication to humanity have earned him admiration and respect from many within and outside the community.