By Newscount
In Nigeria where life expectancy falls below age 60 currently, it is therefore no mean feat to attain the envious ripe age of 83 before transitioning.
Nevertheless, the death of a beloved one definitely do evoke searing pain: regardless of considerable old age attained.
In loving memory, coupled with final burial rites and celebration of life of late Chief Bernard Chukwuka Ezeigwe, also known as ‘Uhuru’ (Anomuikaomelu): Nibo town, in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State was agog, Thursday, 24th October 2024 in posthumous honour of the late Icon!
After requiem service at St Andrew’s Anglican Church Egbeana, Ezeanwulu Village; which attracted many guests and laying to rest the remains of the departed patriarch, Chief Ezeigwe at his compound, immediate and extended family members of late Ezeigwe, friends, associates, various groups, club members, in-laws, sympathisers, condolence visit guests, and other well wishers trooped in large numbers to St.Theresa’s Catholic church field Ezeanwulu Nibo where they were lavishly hosted with more than enough of assorted food and drinks with various live bands performing, including freelance dancers and flutists.
One of late Chief Ezeigwe’s sons’-in-law, Chief Chigoziem described his late father-in-law as, “a very kind hearted, honest, and god fearing gentleman whose words of wisdom was invaluable and prayed for God Almighty to continue to repose his gentle soul”.
One of Chief Chigoziem’s close associates, High Chief (Agbalanze) Kenneth Ejiofor Ifekudu, an Abuja based real estate czar, Chairman of Diamond Leeds Limited who also doubles as the Chairman of Pinnacle Billionaires Club paid a condolence visit to identify with the immediate family and his friend, Chief Chigoziem.
Chief Ifekudu, a quintessential philanthropist in his usual characteristic manner, used the occassion to randomly empower some young and elderly people financially who instantly recognized his outstanding amity and generosity right from the very moment he alighted from his car.
High Chief Ifekudu described late Chief Ezeigwe as “a great community leader and someone who loves his people so much and devoted much of his time to serve both God and humanity as well”.
Similarly, Chief Azubuike Okonkwo, (Nwaweniteugo na Ojoto), South Africa based and one of Chief Ezeigwe’s sons’-in-law eulogized his late father-in-law; stating that he had a wonderful relationship with him while he was alive, hence his physical presence along side some members of his kindred, friends, and associates from far and near to pay him his last respect which he truly deserves.
Speaking further to pressmen, after doling out large sums of money in different denominations to his beloved wife; Mrs Chinenye Okonkwo- who danced forward while clutching her late father’s portrait and respectfully knelt before her husband.
Chief Okonkwo described Chief Ezeigwe’s life as, “symbol of peace, love, hard work, and community service”.
Late Chief Ezeigwe is survived by his wife, Mrs Joyce Ezeigwe, a son, Engr Chukwuka Ezeigwe; three daughters: Mrs Nwamaka Agumadu, Mrs Chinenye Okonkwo, and Mrs Somtochukwu Chigoziem; a step-daughter, Miss Ifeoma Madubuko; eleven grandchildren.
He is also survived by three brothers: Mr Christian Ezeigwe, Mr Emmanuel Ezeigwe, and Mr Godfrey Ezeigwe; two sisters: Mrs Eunice Eze and Mrs Beatrice Okeke; as well as twelve nieces and twelve nephews.
Late Chief Ezeigwe was the founder of popular Uhuru Transport Company and later diversified into other ventures such as: Midland Construction Company Limited, Midland Printing Press, and Midland Steel Enterprises Limited.
He was fully committed in the affairs of Nibo Town and served with distinction under the late His Royal Highness, Eze Okechukwu Onwuegbune, Ezeike lll, Nibo traditional ruler during his reign (May 1977- October 1984).
In recognition of his dedication and love for his home town, Ezeike lll, bestowed upon him the prestigious title of ‘Ichie’, making him a member of the royal cabinet.
Thus he became known as ‘Ichie Akubuko.’
Late Chief Ezeigwe replicated the same service to his Anglican church faith with utmost commitment.
