by Chukwudi George Ozalla
A quiet, heavy mood settled over Nibo yesterday as residents gathered at the compound of the late Engr. Innocent Igwedinma Akuvue before proceeding to St. Theresa’s Catholic Church for the requiem Mass. Faces carried the weight of profound loss for an illustrious son of the soil, and conversations were subdued as people reflected on a man whose influence and leadership touched homes, churches, projects, and countless personal lives across the community and beyond.
Inside St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, the atmosphere was thick with emotion. Priests spoke of a life dedicated to family, community, and profession. They highlighted that Akuvue never saw leadership as a privilege but as an opportunity to uplift people, especially the less privileged.
Associates, friends, sympathisers, neighbours, professionals, and public figures turned out in large numbers, including former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Mr. Peter Gregory Obi with his entourage, who came to pay tribute. Obi spent time at the Akuvue residence consoling the widow, children, grandchildren, and extended family, offering words of comfort. Speaking afterwards, he described Akuvue as a man who lived with purpose and conscience, noting that his leadership style focused on helping others rather than drawing attention to himself.
Tributes flowed naturally from various groups. During his tenure as President-General of Nibo Union Worldwide from 2014 to 2022, Akuvue abolished financial levies, insisting that no Nibo indigene should be compelled to pay mandatory dues. He personally supported the union’s financial obligations, covering running costs and projects from his own resources.
Community members also recounted his quiet acts of kindness. He supported widows, paid school fees for orphans and young people, and contributed to numerous worthy causes across the town. Those who benefitted described him as approachable and thoughtful, someone who stepped in without waiting to be asked. He spearheaded various peace initiatives that bore fruit, often helping people when all other options had been exhausted.
Late Akuvue was known for bringing people together during tense moments, approaching disagreements with patience and encouraging discussion rather than confrontation. Colleagues testified that he preferred solutions that preserved relationships and constantly reminded them that the organisation’s and community’s future depended on unity and trust.
From the engineering field came testimonies of his quiet professionalism. Engineers from across the South East and beyond recalled his careful approach, which ensured tasks were done properly, and his mentorship of younger colleagues, which he shared freely and without expectation of reward.
After the funeral Mass, mourners accompanied the family to the Akuvue compound, where he was laid to rest. Late Engr. Akuvue was an icon, a father, and a grandfather. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, in-laws, and extended family. Condolence visits continue, giving friends, associates, and community members the opportunity to pay their respects.
