A Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Obimma popularly called Ebube Muonso has placed no fewer than 300 elderly persons, including Elder Chris Eluemuno, ex-chairman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in Anambra State, on monthly salary of N5000.
The cleric, founder and Spiritual Director of Holy Ghost Adoration Ministry, Uke, said the payment which commenced immediately would be given to elderly men and women from 75 years and above.
Speaking at the event that attracted several elderly men and women from 75 years and above, the cleric said the package was targeted at improving the welfare of the elderly in his Nkwelle-Ezunaka community in Oyi Local Government Area of the State.
He said, “In John 10:10, Christ said that He came so that you may have life and have it in abundance. I am taking part in the Christ Ministry because Christ preached the good news and gave food to the poor people.
“It is always good to take care of elderly ones, I have soft spot for them as well as special package for their hospital bills, though secretly.
“I will open an account for them and will continue to pay the salary until I die. I will write it as a will. I will also open an investment that will be yielding money for the apostolate to the elderly and generation yet unborn.
“I thank my parents for sending me to school, education is an enabler.”
Obimma further adviced youths in the community to be hardworking by engaging in legitimate businesses instead of living reckless lives.
He listed countries that need the gospel through him to include, Australia, Glasgow, California, Turkey and Canada, stressing that they needed in view of the several lives he had touched.
Responding, the ex-Ohanaeze chairman, Eluemuno appreciated the benefactor for the gesture, saying, “Ebube Muonso is about forty something years old and remembers those that are 75 and above.
“It was former Governor Peter Obi that first introduced this package for the elders in the State but the scheme fizzled out when he left.
“It is a remarkable venture which shows that our Nkwelle-Ezunaka community has produced a son. I am one of the beneficiaries because I’m 75 years old now.”
President General of the community, Chief Willie Okafor and chairlady of the Iyom society, Mrs Iyom Irene, expressed satisfaction with the cleric’s benevolence, praying God to keep him for them.
“God gave the cleric to the community to assist in both human capital and infrastructural development. We urge other youths to emulate him,” Chief Okafor said.
Also speaking, Manager of the elders salary scheme, Hon. Ubaka Onwuanyi commended the Priest for coming to the rescue of the elderly and prayed God to continue to guide and protect him.
In their various remarks, head of Ogbuefi society, (grand patron) Ogbuefi Willy Ayadike, Chief Christopher Igwenagu, among others, prayed for the cleric and commended him for his magnanimity.
