For record purposes as published in Nigerian Daily Newspapers-
For record purposes as published in Nigerian Daily Newspapers- with great pride to us the children, it is worthy to note here and as on record at the Outward Bound Mountain School Loitokitok Kenya, “Course NumberL/131/1971” that Mr June I. Wenah , an indigene of Rivers State from Nigeria took the first position among the Eleven Nigerian Youths that went for the climbing and fourth among the 50 Youths from all the participating Countries of Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria and Kenya the host Country during the strenuous Nine mile endurance race on the Mountain, yet He was not even remembered for bringing such great honour to Rivers State and Nigeria at large.
I had earlier thought before now that such an outstanding performance could have singled him out from the crowd as to be recognized just like others, but behold nothing came forward until death stroke him, “though one thing still remains that Great Achievements of Pioneers can never be forgotten, more so He had been all these 41 years waited so patiently, knowing too well that it is better late than never, hence, all that is well ends well”.
Let it not go down in history, especially now that this issue has been officially brought to your attention, as I now respectfully appeal that you use your good office and personality to recognize and honour Mr June Wenah posthumously because it is very important for one to receive the recognition he had earned, and this will send a clear signal that you appreciates so much the labour of our past Hero and Heroine, thus encouraging others to follow the footsteps of those old Patriot.
Those who knew all about Mr June Wenah Mountain trip to Kenya in 1971- For reference purpose, could you please permit me to mention but a few of those respected men who knew all about Mr. June Wenah trip to the Mountain top in 1971, and who can equally attest, they are , with due respect to mention:
1.His Royal Majesty King Alfred Diete Spiff (Former Military Governor of the Old Rivers State) It was during his Administration that the trip was made.
2.Hon. Justice Iche Nwenendah Ndu, (OFR) Chief Justice of Rivers State. He was his Senior in the same Secondary School at Borokiri Portharcourt when I left for the Mountain climbing.
3.Captain Elechi Amadi, RTD (MFR) Former Permanent Secretary Field Administration Military Governor’s Office. He made all the necessary arrangements towards their journey to Kenya, in short he played a major role.
4.Chief John Wright, (OBE), A whiteman with the Rivers State Ministry of Information, Rural Development and Social Welfare as at then. He conducted interviews/test that led to the final selection of those who represented the State in East Africa for the Mountain climbing.
I have said enough, but never before have I wrtten so long a letter, I am afraid it is much too long to take your precious time, it is because I am deeply worried, but all I can assure you is that it would have been much shorter and not in this very direction if Mr June Wenah was accorded the deserved recognition as when due and as done to others, but what else can one do when this very issue is still outstanding, other than to humbly appeal and continue from where Mr June Wenah stopped. I think long thoughts and pray long prayers, with an assured hope for a better tomorrow, and now comes the expected moment to the Glory of God’s own time.
In conclusion therefore, The Wenah Household of Ogbodo Isiokpo and the entire Isiokpo Ancient Kingdom in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers appreciates your good works.
May the Blessings of the Almighty God continue to give you the special grace, inspire you with more wisdom than ever. The Bible says “I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me”-Philippians 4:13.
