Senator Austin Akobundu, who represents the Abia Central Senatorial District, has adopted six altar servers from St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Umuozugwo Oloko, Ikwuano LGA, Abia State, and placed them on scholarship.
Senator Akobundu this announcement on Easter Sunday, following a visit from the altar servers who prayed for him at his Oloko country home in Ikwuano. The six altar servers had participated in the Mass at Senator Akobundu’s Thanksgiving Mass earlier that day. After the service, they approached the senator, expressing their desire to visit his residence and pray for him, an offer that he welcomed with enthusiasm.
During a subsequent interactive session at his home, the children introduced themselves and shared details about their school classes and future aspirations. The group included David Melody, Daniel Uke, Gideon Uke, Chizaram Uke, Nna Peter, and Uchechukwu Jonathan. It was noted that four of the six children are orphans.
In his address to the children, Senator Akobundu encouraged them to embrace the lessons of Easter and to maintain hope in their lives regardless of their circumstances. He shared insights from his own childhood, stating, “If God could lift me from the ashes of life to this height, He can do it for you too. But you all have to be focused on Christ, remain committed to the Church and your studies, and see how God lifts you in due time.”
He further advised them, “Among you are governors, ministers, senators, and even president. But don’t allow yourselves to be influenced by the vices that destroy the dreams of other children who turn their back on God and their studies.”
At this juncture, Senator Akobundu announced his decision to adopt the six children and take responsibility for their education moving forward. He encouraged them to visit him frequently whenever he is in Oloko, assuring them that his doors would always be open to them.
In their response, the delighted children expressed their gratitude to the senator for his generous gesture and promised to follow his guidance.
The highlight of the interactive session was a group photograph featuring Senator Akobundu, his wife, and the children.
