Christmas Celebration: The Ilaboyas Host, Fete The Elderly

In their characteristic style, Owan West immediate past Council Boss, Hon. Frank Ilaboya and his precious wife, Mrs Patience Azegbe Ilaboya, on Christmas Day hosted the elderly (70 years and above) to an impressive Christmas Party at their Uzebba residence.

The elderly men and women, numbering over 50 were drawn from the 11 wards of the LGA.

The Christmas party which was full of fun and excitement witnessed elderly in their 70s, 80s and 90s dancing and enjoying the moment in the spirit of their coming together.

In her welcome address, Mrs Ilaboya, who spoke on behalf of her husband, described the event as fulfillment of their desire to give the aged men and women in Owan West a sense of joy and belonging during Christmas.

“The Christmas Party for the older generation is a fulfillment of our desire to share in the joy and celebration of the season, especially with our fathers and mothers who may have been lonely at home, especially during a period like this. Bringing them together gives us extreme joy and absolute contentment.

“We express gratitude to God for making this year’s gathering possible despite the harsh economic situation in the country.

“When we started the Christmas party for these set of persons in 2019, many thought we were doing it because of politics, but unknown to them, this has always been our desire ( my husband and I) to create a forum like this for the elderly ones for them to have fun, relieve boredom and generally mingle among their generation. Once again, we thank God for making this year’s party a huge success. By His grace, we will be here next Christmas to continue this tradition.

“The joy and excitement in their faces give us a true sense of fulfillment and all round joy in our hearts. In fact Christmas has never been merrier for us since we started this get together three years ago.”

While wishing them a Merry Christmas celebration, Mrs Ilaboya thanked them for honouring their invitation and urged them to continue to pray for her husband and family to succeed in all “our endeavours.”

Appreciating the Ilaboyas, Mrs. Bosede Asein, 84, an Octogenarian from Uhonmora-Ora Ward 2 and Chief Markson Ikhidero, 78, from Eruere Ward 7, lauded the ex Council Boss and Wife for the initiative, even while out of office, and added that the sustainance of this yearly gathering reflects that that the initiative was genuine.

Prayers were offered for the Ilaboya family, for God to continue to take them higher and higher with good health, long life and prosperity.

The party which witnessed dancing competition amongst the oldies and presentation of various Christmas gift items to all the attendees, was laced with generous entertainment that reflects the mood of the season.