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Itode Akari
Dignitaries from within and outside Nigeria on Thursday converged in Aba, Abia state to pay their last respects to High Chief Egbu John Emejiaka (Enyioha I) during his funeral ceremony.
The solemn event began with a funeral service conducted by the Living Word Church, followed by interment.
The bustling commercial city came alive as family, friends, and well-wishers celebrated the life of a revered patriarch remembered for his discipline, integrity, philanthropy, and commitment to communal values.
This was as the burial ceremony attracted guests from all walks of life, political leaders, captains of industry, academics, and community figures, highlighting the late Chief’s enduring influence and far-reaching impact.
Rich cultural displays and traditional rites added colour to the ceremony, befitting a man who lived a life of distinction, dignity, and service.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South Senatorial District, and Rt. Hon. Mascot Ikwecheghi, member representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency.
A major highlight of the occasion was the presence of Nze James Egbu, the late Chief’s brother and close friend, who returned from the United States with his family to honour his memory, a gesture that reflected the unity and deep-rooted bond within the Emejiaka dynasty.
Nze Egbu described the late Chief as a selfless and compassionate man.
“He was a remarkable philanthropist. He cares for the widows, the youths and indeed, the entire community. He shaped my life in a very significant way, influencing my relocation from the United Kingdom to the United States of America.
“Though he may no longer be with us, his legacy will forever inspire future generations,” Egbu added.
He noted that High Chief Emejiaka was widely admired for his unwavering discipline, integrity, and sense of community, qualities that earned him respect across generations.
Family members and friends also spoke glowingly of his legacy of service, generosity, and exemplary leadership.
His daughter, Dr. Dionne Emejiaka, paid a heartfelt tribute describing her late father as her most excellent teacher compassionate, kind, cheerful, and humble.
She thanked all who sent messages of condolence and personally visited the family during their period of mourning.
In his tribute, Chief Sam Okorie, CEO of Holafield Multiconcepts Nigeria Limited and son-in-law to the deceased, described his father-in-law as a principled and loving mentor.
“My father-in-law lived a fulfilled life. He was a principled man who believed in hard work, honesty, and steadfastness.
“Beyond being a father-in-law, he was a mentor who guided us on the path of discipline and respect for humanity.”
Also speaking, Prof. Uzoma Nwokocha, National President of Ngwa Advancement Initiative, commiserated with the family and underscored the values of unity, compassion, and faith in times of grief.
He described Chief Emejiaka as a man of honour whose contributions to his family and community will not be forgotten, adding that his legacies would remain a source of inspiration to younger generations.
In his tribute, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe hailed the late Chief as a trailblazer who excelled in business, community development, and philanthropy, noting that his life was a model of integrity and impact.
Other dignitaries present included Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, member representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency; His Royal Highness, Eze Michael Ukaogu, traditional ruler of Eziama Igbere Autonomous Community and President General of Eziama Igbere; alongside several other distinguished guests.
The ceremony ended on a note of solemn reflection and celebration, a fitting farewell to a man whose life exemplified service, humility, and devotion to humanity.
