By Jonathan Ugbal
Information reaching our newsroom suggests that the Sacred Heart Commandery, 461 of the Knights of St. John International will elevate Cross River Governor, Ben Ayade to a a honorary rank equivalent to a Colonel during its next Knighting ceremony.
This will place the Governor at par with the likes of Nigeria’s transportation minister, Rotimi Amaechi.
Mr. Ayade joined the Catholic Brotherhood after he was Knighted in August 2019 without his wife, Dr. Linda Ayade.
But, two years after he was Knighted, his wife has been inducted into the KSJI’s Immaculate Heart, Laux 301 as a Lady Auxiliary meaning both will now be addressed as Sir and Lady Ayade.
Reports suggest that she was absent at his Knighting ceremony in 2019.
And, Mr. Ayade had after the thanksgiving ceremony of his initiation told journalists that this meant a new purpose for him.
“My Knighthood represents a new life, a new journey towards God, putting everything I have towards the attainment of the whole essence of humankind; bringing value to humanity and getting closer to God,” he said, adding that: “I will use my office as the governor to serve God and humanity. Irrespective of religion, God is the ultimate. That is why I chose spiritual growth, spiritual highness above other considerations. In all the titles I have acquired, none means more to me than ‘Sir’ Ben Ayade.”
However, this drew mixed reactions amidst claims that he had ordered the arrest of journalist and rights activist, Agba Jalingo who risks a death sentence or at best, a life sentence if convicted for any of the four charges preferred against bordering on terrorism, treasonable felony, cultism and attempts to overthrow Mr. Ayade’s administration through an article he wrote in July 2019.
Below are images from Lady Ayade’s induction…
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