Rebuild Imo, ADC Members Celebrate Former Deputy Governor Irona’s Birthday with Commendations
By Anselem Anokwute in Owerri
Members and leadership of Rebuild Imo and recently endorsed Stakeholders of African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rebuild Women leaders gathered in a colorful celebration to mark the birthday of Rt. Hon. Engr. Gerald Alphonsus Irona, former Deputy Governor of Imo State.
Speaking at the event at Office Secretariat Port Harcourt road Owerri, on Friday August 12025, the Director General of Rebuild Imo and former Chief of Staff and Commissioner for Health, Dr. Vin Udokwu, described Engr. Irona as one of the most visionary and effective deputy governors the state has ever produced.
He praised Irona’s leadership, commitment to development, and passion for restoring the dignity of inclusivity and good governance in Imo State.
Dr. Udokwu thank the celebrant for their visionary leadership and emphasized that the party, ADC has emerged as a credible platform to heal Nigeria from years of hardship, poverty, and insecurity.
He urged Imo residents to support the party in its mission to deliver good governance, food security, and human development—values embodied by the celebrant. He also wished Engr. Irona long life and prosperity.
Also speaking, the Rebuild Imo Coordinator in the Diaspora, Barr. Chuks Ogbonna—based in London and a native of Ihitte Uboma LGA—praised Irona as a loyal and tested ally of Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha. He lauded the achievements of the Ihedioha-led administration, describing its brief tenure as “unmatched in vision and impact.” Ogbonna called on the people of Imo to work towards restoring the Ihedioha/Irona leadership in 2027.
Ogbonna, a UK-based technocrat, expressed his constant concern for the state’s development, stressing his commitment to restoring Imo’s lost glory and ensuring lasting infrastructure and security.
In his remarks, Sir Chijioke Uchegbu, Rebuild Imo Coordinator for Oguta LGA and Assistant Secretary for Orlu Zone, described himself as a close ally and younger brother of Engr. Irona and his representative at the event thank all the participants for honoring the Oguta illustrious Son. Engr Irona.
He highlighted August 1st as a day cherished by many in recognition of Irona’s enduring contributions to the development of the state and the nation and thank God for the rear gift.
As a former federal legislator representing Ohaji/Egbema, Oguta, and Oru West, Irona’s performance, he said, remains impactful and well-acknowledged.
“Engr. Irona is known for his unwavering commitment to good governance and people-oriented leadership,” Uchegbu added. “Today’s massive turnout is a testament to his legacy and the people’s trust in him.”
The event was highlighted by the presentation of gifts from Rebuild Imo Coordinators in Orlu Zone, as well as special gift cards from the Rebuild Imo Women’s Group. Political associates, family members, friends, and well-wishers were in attendance, celebrating the life and service of the former deputy governor.
Many dignitaries witnessed the presentation including the ADC South East National Chairman, Sir Bon Unachukwu, Rt. Hon. Oliver Enwerenem, Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha’s Media Aide, Comrade Ori Martin and many others.