HIGHLY respected Lady, Cherry Igbinedion, was the centre of attention on Thursday as she turned 70.
Lady Cherry, who is wife of the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, was showered with love, gifts, and praises. She was described as a peace ambassador, a rare gem, a pillar of support, an angel on earth, and a philanthropist.
The matriarch of the family also enjoyed the support of her husband and children, including her first daughter, Omosede Igbinedion.
The ceremony was colourful, as Lady Cherry’s photos were splashed all over the venue. It was also an opportunity to showcase the beautiful culture of the Benin people.
At the ceremony was: Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, Dr. Doyin Okupe, Chief Dele Momodu, Chief John Odigie Oyegun, and Deputy Governor of Edo State Philip Shaibu.
Obaseki said the state would forever be grateful to the celebrant for championing causes for the advancement of education in Edo.
“Today, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion is known as one of Nigeria’s foremost educationists, made possible by Lady Cherry Igbinedion.
“She came and brought in not only love but an enduring legacy that the Igbinedion dynasty will forever be known for.”
The governor thanked her because she championed the enduring values of education in their home and Edo State.
“We would forever be grateful to you and our father, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion.
“Before Lady Cherry came, Gabriel Igbinedion was a great industrialist, an amazing businessman, and had invested in every sphere of life. But the arrival of Lady Cherry turned things around and she put in place those investments that have lasted in Igbinedion’s home.”