Thousands Gather To Celebrate James Ibori's Brithday!

Thousands of Chief James Onanefe Ibori's supporters gathered in his Oghara home in Delta State to mark the 53rd birthday of their political leader, who is currently standing trial for allegations on money laundering among other offenses.

The gathering marked Ibori's birthday through speeches, prayers by several pastors and finally dancing as music was provided by a live band.

The speakers, mostly politicians but also including retired military Generals and technocrats dwelt on various aspects of their champion; Ibori the man, the administrator and Ibori the astute political organiser. The speakers kept harping on one message; that despite Ibori's present vicissitudes, "that he would never walk alone" as his supporters and those whose lives he touched positively will never forget that he is at present suffering from political persecution and not legal prosecution.

The occasion was initially planned for the 500-sitter conference hall in Ibori's compound that was built before he became governor in 1999 but as more people poured in, canopies were quickly mounted outside the hall. Dignitaries present included Chief M. C. Uzi, Iyasere of Oghara Kingdom, Chief William Ibori (Ibori's uncle) Chief P.P Tietie, Rev. Dr. Gbejero, Mr. Thomas Eriy Utomi, Bar. Ejiafe Odebala, Hon. Chris Onogba, and Rear Admiral John Onoriode Pkokpogri.        


Original story from THE WILL.