Felix Mbata
Dr. Benjamin Eze, Chief Medical Director of New Evaluation Hospital Limited, shares his erudite thoughts on the significance of Eze Oparachukwu’s 10th anniversary celebration, “strongly advocated the importance of preserving Igbo culture and tradition.
What inspired your presence at Eze Oparachukwu’s 10th anniversary celebration?
“My presence was precipitated by my profound interest in Igbo culture and tradition. I firmly believe it’s essential to incorporate sagacity, capacity, and sincerity into the dynamic activities of Igbo land and the cultural upbringing of Igbos.”
How would you assess Eze Oparachukwu’s performance over the past 10 years?
“Eze Oparachukwu has been a steadfast friend, and I’ve had the pleasure of knowing him for several years. He’s been consistent in character, dedicating himself to representing the Igbo people with unwavering commitment and unimpeachable integrity. He’s one of the few Eze Ndigbo in Lagos who is not self-serving and is genuinely interested in uplifting Igbo culture and tradition.”
What lessons have you learned from your relationship with Eze Oparachukwu?
“From my relationship with Eze Oparachukwu, I’ve learned about his sincerity in relationships and inter-tribal relationships. He’s a man of diverse background, widely traveled, and has done business outside the country. He knows how to bring people together, and I admire his exceptional ability to carry people along.”
As a medical director and an Igbo man, how do you think Igbo culture and tradition can impact our health?
“I firmly believe that our culture and tradition can significantly impact our health. For instance, our dietary culture can help prevent diseases like prostate cancer, which is prevalent among Igbo men. Cultural activities can also promote health awareness in the community by encouraging healthier lifestyles.”
Do you have any plans to collaborate with Ezes in Lagos to provide health services to Ndigbos?
“Yes, I plan to collaborate with Ezes in Lagos to provide special health talks to Ndigbos. Some of our Ezes are not healthy, and we’d like them to live long, healthy lives. We’re thinking of starting health programs to diagnose and prevent diseases, especially those common among Igbo people.”
What advice do you have for Eze Oparachukwu as he steps into another decade of leadership?
“My advice to Eze Oparachukwu is to continue managing his diet and staying active. I also recommend that he restructure his cabinet to make it more effective in supporting his administrative activities.”
The occasion was attended by prominent Yoruba men, such as Hon. Moshood Adegoke Salvador and Bashorun Olufnmilola Omotayo Anjorin. What’s your take on their presence?
“The presence of these prominent Yoruba men was a welcome development. It shows that we’re in good rapport with the indigenes of Lagos State, and we don’t have any problems with the Yoruba people. We intermarry with them, and they’re our in-laws, cousins, neighbors, and landlords. We remain loyal to them and want to maintain a good relationship with their government.”
What’s your message to Eze Oparachukwu and the Igbo community?
“My message is one of appreciation and gratitude. I’m grateful for the opportunity to attend the 10th anniversary celebration and celebrate with Eze Oparachukwu. I appreciate the dignitaries who graced the occasion and the Igbo people and non-Igbos who supported the event.”