The late publisher of Jungle Journalist, Mazi Onukwube ThankGod Ofoelue, was laid to rest on Saturday amid tears, tributes and emotional reflections from family members, associates, traditional leaders and media stakeholders who gathered in Arochukwu, Abia State, to honour his memory.
Delivering a sermon during the funeral service, Enyinnaya Okoroafor said death signifies a return home and expressed confidence that the deceased would make heaven because of his commitment and good works while alive. He urged the bereaved family to remain strong despite what he described as an irreplaceable loss.
Okoroafor explained that Christians have been given the freedom to choose between good and evil, stressing that those who choose righteousness would reunite with God. According to him, the death and resurrection of Christ abolished eternal death, describing physical death as only a temporary separation from the body.
Speaking on behalf of the Ofoelue family, Okoronkwo Hyacinth Ofoelue described the late Jungle Journalist publisher as exceptionally intelligent and brilliant from childhood. He prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and thanked sympathisers who stood by the family during the period of mourning.
Also speaking, Emeka Charles Kanu and Dave E. Imoko, who represented Nzuko Aro Worldwide, described the deceased as a journalist who worked with conviction, integrity and dedication to truth. They said his passing was painful and came at a time his voice and contributions were still needed in society.
The speakers noted that the late media practitioner remained committed to fairness and truth throughout his career, adding that his death was not only a loss to the Arochukwu Kingdom but also to the wider society. They prayed for God to grant his family the strength to bear the grief.
In his remarks, Igboayaka O. Igboayaka said the late Jungle Journalist publisher devoted his energy and platform to the advancement of the Igbo cause. He added that the deceased practised journalism with passion, courage and conviction.
Among dignitaries present at the burial were Eberechukwu Oji, represented by Captain Eugene Okey Imuoh; Amos Kanu Oji; Ijiomah Obasi Ijiomah; Chimeremeze Okigbo; Njoku Usen; Emeka Echeta; Jerry Onwumere; Eugene Ntonta; Mathew Mgbo; Chukwu Dozie Okolo; Stella Iheanacho; Sister Erinma; Sister Nnaola Izuogu; and Edward Onyema, alongside several other guests and mourners.
The funeral drew emotional scenes as friends, relatives and associates paid their final respects to the late journalist, whose work through Jungle Journalist earned him recognition within media and socio-cultural circles.
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