Physically challenged people on Wednesday in Otukpo turned out in large numbers to attend the 57th birthday anniversary of Dr. Samuel Ankeli, the Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Disability Matters.

Reports have it that the physically challenged people who were dressed in colourful attires were the first set of dignitaries that arrived at the venue of the event slated to begin at 3 p.m.

The physically challenged people attended the celebration in three clusters: the deaf, the blind, and those with other forms of disabilities.

A cross-section of those interviewed said they were proud to identify with the celebrant, whom they described as their “worthy ambassador”.

Speaking to reporters, the Benue State Chairman of Physically Challenged People, Mr Collins Uertar, said they were happy to celebrate one of their own who, in spite of his disability, was still serving the nation.

Uertar said that they were most grateful to God for his benevolence upon the life of the celebrant and for giving him 57 good years to live with them.

“On behalf of the Benue people with various forms of disabilities, we most sincerely appreciate God for all that he has done to Dr Ankeli.

“That is why we are all here in three clusters to celebrate with one of our own. We are happy for his life.”

Also, Miss Ada Inalagu, another physically challenged person, said though she could not see, she was at the church to celebrate a man who is like a father to her.

Miss Inalagu said that she was very excited to celebrate Dr Ankeli’s birthday and all that he had achieved on earth.

NAN reports that the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, is being represented at the Thanksgiving by the State Director of NOA, Mr. Richard Abimiku.

The event is ongoing with a church service at the Jesus Glory Chapel, Otukpo.

NAN