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… says he was a rare gem
Igwe John Ositadimma Umenyiora, the late Igwe of Ogbunike Community in Anambra State, who passed on 28th of April, 2020 has been described as a rare gem; a gifted leader, iconic entrepreneur and a sportsman by Prof. Cee Cee Soludo, former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN.
Soludo said the late Igwe of Ogbunike was an Igwe who was very courageous, and visionary while he was on the throne of his forefathers.
The CBN former governor further described the late Igwe as a pillar who held his people together in peace for many years after he ascended the throne; and also a resourceful man who overcame the challenges of life from a humble beginning to become an Igwe in his home Community of Ogbunike and a successful businessman.
In retrospect, Soludo said “I recall the early life of Igwe Umenyiora as a young man who overcame the early challenges of life through dint of hardwork, focus and consistency.”
These sterling attributes, Soludo said became the guiding principles of his glorious 44 years reign as the Igwe of the Ogbunike community.
Soludo added that the late Igwe was not only a quintessential Monarch but one who brought panache and glamour to royalty with the several accomplishments he brought to bear in his Community which stand as his enduring legacies
“Igwe John Ositadimma Umenyiora was not just a quintessential Monarch of outstanding qualities and class, but one who brought panache and honour to royalty” Soludo enthused
Soludo also recalled that as a remarkable entrepreneur, the late Monarch mesmerized travellers and commuters in the 7Os with his famous iconic building along Agbani road in Enugu fixed with a rotating electronic sign (UNICCO) which adorned the top roof of an imposing glass edifice that could be easily sighted from miles away.
Soludo said that building became a landmark that was appreciated and adored by all, adding that it also bears an eloquent testimony of the personality of the late Igwe as a vibrant, friendly, and an elegant gentleman.
“Igwe Umenyiora will forever be remembered as a man with the midas touch, a true advocate for the voiceless and a sportsman who was irrepressible” Soludo further said.
Concluding, Soludo prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed Igwe; as he also prayed that the Almighty God grants the family of the late Igwe, the Ogbunike community and the government and people of Anambra State the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss!
