In Umuchinyere Amamba Autonomous Community, Ndundu, Uturu, Isuikwuato LGA of Abia State, a century-old life of faith, farming, and family has come to a peaceful close. Sir Pius Okeoma, Principal Partner at Goodwill Chambers, speaks on the legacy of his father, Late Ezinna Sylvester Nwankwor Okeoma, the Ichie Agbaekperechi of the autonomous community, as the family prepares to lay him to rest, Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka Our Managing Editor can report.
A Glorious Home-Going: “My father passed-on gloriously and peacefully at the ripe age of 103 on 5th May, 2026, as the oldest person in my community,” Sir Pius told journalists in A uja the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Rooted in Faith: The patriarch, until his passing into the blossom of God, was a devoted Christian. His home was one of prayer, gratitude, and service to others.
A Legacy of Peace: “He left a legacy of peace, tranquility, love, harmonious relationship and fear of God, in the family,” Sir Pius Okeoma said. Neighbours recall him as a man who settled disputes with wisdom, not anger.
Sacrificial Fatherhood: Beyond faith, he built people. “He left the legacy of children and grandchildren who he sacrificed his yesterdays to make today a better day for them,” the son noted.
Values That Endure: The Okeoma children were raised on clear principles. “We his children learned to be law-abiding, honest, peaceful in all our dealings with all men,” the legal guru affirmed.
The Farmer-Patriarch: Ichie Agbaekperechi was a lifelong farmer. “My dad had plantations all over the village and he was servicing them, until age caught up with him, then he left them behind.”
A Name that Carries Weight: Ichie Agbaekperechi of Umuchinyere, Amamba Autonomous Community, was a respected voice in Ndundu, Uturu and Isuikwuato in general. His counsel was sought, and his presence commanded respect.
Final Rites Announced: The family has fixed his burial for the 23rd day of July, 2026. Funeral Mass will be at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Ndundu, before interment at his compound.
Call to Fortitude: “My advice to those he left behind is that God grants them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss of his life,” Sir Pius said.
A Befitting Farewell: The family is also praying for resources to give him a befitting burial, one that honours a life that spanned a century and touched many.
Emulate His Life: The core message to community and kin is simple: “Emulate his peaceful and honest life.” That, Sir Pius says, is the greatest tribute.
Living the Standard: Personally, the son has made a vow: “I will endeavour to make my life as upright as his own, so that those behind me will not suffer.” For Ndundu, _Ichie Agbaekperechi_ departs, but his standard remains.
