Former President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Professor Joseph Irukwu, Receives Tributes as His Body Arrives in Umuahia

Various individuals from the Igbo community gathered at the International Conference Centre, ICC, Umuahia, on Friday to pay their respects as the body of Professor Joseph Irukwu, former President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, arrived in the Abia State capital.

A large crowd, including traditional rulers, industry leaders, government officials, and religious and community leaders, attended the commendation service held in his honor.

During the event, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, delivered a speech expressing his sorrow over Irukwu’s passing and emphasized the significance of his contributions to the Igbo nation.

Iwuanyanwu encouraged young Igbo individuals to follow in Irukwu’s footsteps and embrace his legacy while shaping their own future.

Abia State governor, Alex Otti, also expressed his shock and the state’s deep loss upon hearing the news of Irukwu’s death. He praised Irukwu for his selflessness and patriotism, highlighting his role as Nigeria’s first Professor of Insurance.

Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, representing the Abia State Council of Elders, commended Irukwu for his contributions to the development of the old Eastern region and for popularizing the insurance business among Igbo businessmen.

The President of Item Welfare Union, Onwuka Orji, added to the tributes, highlighting Irukwu’s significant contributions to the progress of his homeland.

Prior to the commendation service, a reception was held for the body of the former Igbo leader at the Abia State High Court Complex in Umuahia.

Irukwu’s final resting place will be in Amaokwe Item, Bende LGA of Abia State, where he will be buried on Saturday, October 21.