● Ferdy Agu with additional contributions from Chelsea Chinenye and Pascal Chibuzo
Agbani, a town in Nkanu West LGA known for its cultural heritage and strong community ties, today Friday, October 11, played host to Enugu State and beyond in a solemn occasion to bid farewell to one of its respected sons, Chief Okafor Ede. The funeral, held at St. Michael’s Methodist Church, was a tribute not only to a life well-lived but to a man whose influence touched every corner of the community. Dignitaries, family members, and well-wishers filled the church to pay their respects to a man whose legacy of education, public service, and faith will forever remain in the annals of Nkanu West and beyond.
Presiding over the ceremony, Rt. Rev. Bishop Okorie, the Methodist Bishop of Agbani, led the service with solemnity, while retired Archbishop A. C. Okenwa delivered an inspiring homily. “Chief Ede was more than just a servant of the church; he was a man who brought light wherever he went. His faith was unwavering, and his commitment to the growth of this community and the education of our youth is something we should all strive to emulate,” Archbishop Okenwa said, as the congregation nodded in agreement.
Among those who came to honor the late Chief was Professor Bart Nnaji, Chairman of Geometric Power Group and former Minister of Power, represented by his Principal Personal Assistant (PPA), Amara Uwadiegwu. He extended his condolences, stating, “Chief Okafor Ede was a man of profound impact, especially in education and public service. His legacy of integrity and dedication to community development will continue to inspire future generations.” Nnaji continued, “He was a man of integrity, …strategizing on how to reposition Nkanu land. He was known for speaking the truth with boldness no matter the circumstance.”
Hon. John Ogbodo, Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government led some members of his council to the funeral. In his tribute, Ogbodo expressed deep admiration for Chief Ede’s contributions to the community, calling him “a man of profound wisdom and selfless service.” He added, “Chief Okafor Ede’s dedication to our local community was extraordinary. He was a teacher, a mentor, and a leader whose actions spoke louder than his words. We have lost a pillar, but we take solace in the life of impact he led. His spirit will continue to guide us as we work towards the development of Nkanu West.”
Hon. Ogbodo did not stop at highlighting the late Ede’s public service. He also took a moment to comfort the grieving family. “To the family of Chief Ede, we share in your loss. Know that the legacy of your father, uncle, and brother is one that will be remembered for generations. He was not just yours but ours – a father to many in this community,” Ogbodo said.
Victor Ene, representing the Senator of Enugu East Senatorial District, Kevin Chukwu, also conveyed his principal’s condolences and described Chief Ede as “a man of integrity whose life was marked by service to both God and the people.” He emphasized the importance of Chief Ede’s work in education and governance, noting, “His contributions to the Methodist Church and to education were foundational. We cannot talk about the progress made here without mentioning his name.”
Born in 1945, Chief Ede’s life was marked by humility and dedication. His journey in education began at Group School in 1953, and later he moved to Methodist Central School Agbani. His passion for teaching started early, and by 1961, he was already molding young minds as a teacher. His thirst for knowledge saw him gain admission to the prestigious University of Ibadan in 1976, where he graduated in 1979. His time in academia continued at the College of Immaculate Conception (CIC) in Enugu and later at Anambra State University of Science and Technology (ASUTECH), now known as Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), where he left an indelible mark before retiring in 2001.
His service to the community did not end with his retirement. Chief Ede was appointed a commissioner in the Enugu State Civil Service Commission in 2001, serving until 2008. His tenure was characterized by dedication, fairness, and a commitment to improving the public sector. “Chief Ede was not just a public servant; he was an example of what leadership should be,” said Hon. Raymond Ugwu, representing Enugu East Rural Constituency in the Enugu State House of Assembly. “His influence went beyond the classrooms and offices – he touched lives and uplifted the community in ways that cannot be measured.”
Comrade Udoagha Ani, President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Enugu State Council, paid tribute to Chief Ede, highlighting his unwavering commitment to both faith and community. “As a Knight of John Wesley,” Ani remarked, “Chief Ede exemplified the true spirit of service and humility. His faith was his guiding light, and he was always there to support the church’s mission, ensuring that his actions reflected his deep dedication to the values of compassion and selflessness.”
Nkanu West LG Chairman John Ogbodo (in red cap and sunglasses) exchanging pleasantries with guests.
Dr. Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, Managing Director of the Enugu Investment Authority, reflected on Chief Ede’s impact on both public service and the private sector. “Chief Ede was a mentor to many of us in public service. His dedication to his work and the betterment of Enugu State was evident in all that he did. He was a man who believed in the power of education and service, and that belief drove everything he touched,” Ogbu-Nwobodo stated.
In addition to his professional and spiritual endeavors, Chief Ede was deeply involved in the cultural life of his community a reason for some cultural display. Traditional rulers like HRH Igwe Okecchukwu Nwobodo Egbune of Ogbeke na Ukuruta, Agbani, and HRH Igwe Engr. Damian Ede of Amankpaka Nike were in attendance, underscoring the respect he commanded among local leaders. “Chief Ede was a true son of Enugu State, a man who knew the value of community and unity. His contributions will not be forgotten,” Igwe Egbune said during his tribute.
HRH Okecchukwu Nwobodo Egbune, Ikpendu Olinya Esq., Madueke Ngene (on feather fitted red cap) and others
Engr. Greg Nnaji, former Commissioner for Works, also highlighted Chief Ede’s unwavering commitment to public infrastructure and community development. “Chief Ede understood that progress comes from serving the people. His influence on the state’s infrastructural landscape, though indirect, cannot be overlooked. He consistently advocated for policies that would improve the lives of everyday people,” Nnaji remarked.
As the ceremony which later shifted to Nkanu West Local Government Secretariat drew to a close, it was clear that Chief Okafor Ede’s passing marked the end of an era. However, his legacy, rooted in education, service, and faith, will continue to live on through his family, friends, and the many lives he touched. He is survived by five children and other relatives, all of whom have inherited his values of community and dedication.
Sitting R-L: Former Deputy Chairman, Nkanu East LG Honourable Ben-Joe Ogenyi; Chief Madueke Ngene and wife, Mrs. Ngene.
Chief Madueke Ngene, President of the Nkanu Odenigbo Welfare Association (NOWA), summed up the feelings of many in attendance when he said, “Chief Ede was a man of few words but deep action. His life was a testament to what it means to serve God and your community. He may be gone, but his legacy will continue to shape our future.”
As Enugu State in Agbani bids farewell to one of its finest, Chief Okafor Ede’s life remains a guiding light for the next generation. His legacy of dedication to the Methodist Church, public service, and the educational sector will continue to inspire those who knew him, ensuring that his spirit lives on in the community he so dearly loved. GMTNewsng
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