• After her woes, former bank chief rediscovers essence in philanthropy
Having attained that curve in her life when words can no longer help varnish her deeds to make up for her misdeeds, Cecilia Ibru clings to acquiescence to guide her across the moors and uncertain expanse of her twilight. As she clocks 70, the former boss of defunct Oceanic Bank, holds on to the gift of life and memorable youth like dependable friars on the Alp. Cecilia smiled again as she celebrated her 70th birthday in abundant joy regardless of her woes. She clocked 70 on Tuesday, March 22, 2016 and despite all that she has been through, Cecilia remains strong and ageless.
The former bank chief who was known as the ‘firstlady’ of banking back then, suffered a reversal of fate when she was hit by the Sanusi Lamido Sanusi-led Central Bank of Nigeria tsunami, following allegations of financial recklessness leveled against her. Consequently, the influential banker was forced to crawl back into her shell thus deserting the social scene. Notable for her philanthropy and generosity, Cecilia was instrumental to the rise of many men and women to the esteemed circuit of the rich upper class in contemporary Nigeria – many of which landed her in trouble and cost her, her reputation and position at the bank.
Ask Jimoh Ibrahim! Unfortunately, people she helped have abandoned her as none except three or four of her friends who pooled funds together to place a one page advert on Punch Newspaper on Tuesday, congratulated her. Cecilia has no doubt learnt from her mistakes as sources close to her revealed that she now takes life very easy. With perfect understanding of the transience of life, power and affluence, Cecilia has renewed her passion for philanthropy with unparalleled vigour. She currently assists the needy through her brainchild, the Michael and Cecilia Ibru Foundation.
