AWKA, NIGERIA — The Oko Community in Nigeria’s southeastern Anambra State has finalised arrangements for the funeral of its high-ranking traditional leader, Ichie Martin Ezeosim, the late Onowu Oko (Traditional Prime Minister).
The leader, who died at the age of 78, will be interred on October 9, 2025.
The announcement of his demise and funeral schedule was a joint effort from the traditional ruler, HRH, Igwe Prof. Laz Ekwueme (Eze Ijikala II), his cabinet, and the Oko People’s Union (OPU). The formal public statement detailing the arrangements was signed by Chief (Sir) Reuben Muoka, the Chairman of the Publicity Sub-Committee for the Onowu Oko Burial Committee.
A Legacy of Community Service
The position of Onowu Oko is the second-most senior traditional title in the community’s governance, making him the chief adviser and executive deputy to the paramount ruler, the Igwe (King).
Igwe Ekwueme expressed profound grief over the loss, describing the late Ichie Ezeosim as an “illustrious, reliable and hardworking community leader” who contributed immensely to the area’s development. Similarly, the OPU President, Nze Sunday Nwafor, highlighted the Onowu’s life as an example of a simple Christian existence, praising his bravery and carriage.
Funeral Preparations
The week-long final rites will include a Christian burial ceremony in his country home in Eziabo Village before the main funeral gathering at the Alex Ekwueme Civic Centre in Oko.
Chief Larry Iloh, who heads the official burial committee, stated that no expense would be spared to ensure the ceremony is a befitting farewell to the prominent leader. The committee anticipates a large turnout of community members, friends, and government officials to pay their final respects.
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