The ancient community of Umule, a suburb of Aba, came alive with jubilation as Catholic priests, parishioners, community leaders, and members of the Aba business community gathered to honour Very Rev. Monsignor Innocent Okechi Ajuonu, reputed to be the world’s oldest serving parish priest.

The occasion marked the public presentation of the biography titled “Called to Serve: The Life and Legacy of Very Rev. Monsignor Innocent Okechi Ajuonu”, a compelling account of the life, ministry, and enduring legacy of the revered Catholic cleric.

The colourful event attracted an array of distinguished personalities, including Most Rev. Prof. Augustine Ndubueze Echema, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Aba, who described Monsignor Ajuonu as a shining example of selfless service, humility, and unwavering dedication to the work of God.

The biography, authored by Dr Stanley Nduagu, chronicles the inspiring journey of Very Rev. Monsignor Innocent Okechi Ajuonu — Parish Priest of St. James’ Catholic Church, Umule Aba, former Diocesan Administrator of Aba Diocese, and a respected spiritual father whose decades of priestly ministry have continued to impact countless lives within and beyond the Catholic Church.

Reviewing the book, Rev. Fr. Dr. Anthony Dimkpa described the work as “a literary masterpiece,” commending the depth of research, elegant narrative style, and rich historical documentation contained in the publication. He further praised the author as one of Africa’s finest contemporary writers whose works continue to preserve important religious and cultural histories.

In their separate goodwill messages, Nze Emma Okonkwo, Rev. Fr. Emma Obisi, and Rev. Fr. Cyrachus Eche extolled Monsignor Ajuonu’s exceptional integrity, rare humility, simplicity of life, and unwavering commitment to the service of God and humanity. They noted that his life remains a source of inspiration to both the clergy and the laity.

The event featured prayers, tributes, musical performances, and goodwill messages from friends, associates, parishioners, and admirers who celebrated the cleric’s remarkable contributions to the growth of the Catholic faith and community development.
Participants also offered special prayers for God’s continued strength, sound health, and longevity for the revered priest, whose years of active pastoral service have earned him admiration across religious and social divides.

Speaking during the event, the author, Dr Stanley Nduagu, revealed that the decision to write the biography was inspired by a deeply personal and life-changing encounter he had with Monsignor Ajuonu. According to him, the celebrator’s uncommon humility, spiritual depth, discipline, and lifelong devotion to humanity convinced him that his story deserved to be documented for future generations.

The ceremony ended on a joyful note as guests took turns to felicitate with the celebrant, while copies of the biography were unveiled and presented to dignitaries and invited guests.