A wave of celebration and well wishes from Nollywood stars and fans alike swept across Nigeria as veteran actor Pete Edochie turned 77 on Thursday, March 7th.
Leading the charge was actress Rita Edochie, wife of Pete Edochie’s brother, who took to Instagram to express her heartfelt gratitude for having him in her life. “In over 30 years of knowing you as my dear husband’s brother,” she wrote, “I have never known any regrets nor discomfort… I am greatly delighted to be your sister-in-law.“
She went on to shower him with praise, calling him “loving, caring, concerned, and amazing,” and expressed her desire to be “married by the Edochies” in her next life.
Son and fellow actor Yul Edochie also joined the celebration, taking to his Instagram to pen a loving birthday message. He addressed his father as “The Lion of Africa,” “The Legendary Chief Pete Edochie,” and “The most handsome 77-year-old man.” He concluded by wishing him “many more beautiful years filled with God’s blessings.“
Fellow actor Kanayo O Kanayo also shared his birthday wishes, playfully acknowledging their shared birthday and calling Pete Edochie “Ebubedike, Ogadagidi, and Mmuo nabu” (titles of respect in Igbo language). He further emphasized the importance of celebrating people while they are alive, stating, “Great to celebrate you while you are alive and kicking well.“
The celebrator himself, Pete Edochie, took to his Instagram page under the handle “@peteedochie” to share his joy with his followers. He posted pictures of himself in various outfits, radiating warmth and happiness with the caption “Ibobo 77,” a shortened form of “birthday” in Igbo language.
Fans also took to social media to express their admiration and well wishes for the veteran actor.