The Oko community in Orumba North Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State has concluded preparations for the burial and final rites of passage for its late traditional Prime Minister, Onowu Oko, Ichie Martin Ezeosim, scheduled to hold on Thursday, October 9, 2025.
Chief (Sir) Reuben Muoka, who Chairs the Publicity Sub-Committee of the Onowu Oko Burial Committee, disclosed in a signed press release that the passing of the late Onowu was formally announced by His Royal Highness, Igwe Prof. Laz Ekwueme, Eze Ijikala II, and his cabinet; the Oko People’s Union (OPU); and the bereaved family.
Aged 78, Onowu Oko served as the traditional Prime Minister and second-in-command to the Igwe of Oko. He is remembered as a dedicated community leader who made outstanding contributions to the peace, unity, and development of Oko.
His Christian burial will take place at his country home in Eziabo Village, Oko, followed by a community funeral and tribute event at the Alex Ekwueme Civic Centre, Oko.
To ensure a befitting farewell, a burial committee led by Chief Larry Iloh, a respected member of the Oko Council of Chiefs, has been constituted. The committee comprises prominent individuals from across the community and is tasked with coordinating all burial arrangements. The events are expected to attract government dignitaries, traditional leaders, and friends of Oko both at home and in the diaspora.
In his condolence message, Igwe Prof. Ekwueme expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Onowu Oko as “a reliable, hardworking and illustrious leader whose legacy of service will endure.” He encouraged the committee to deliver a farewell worthy of the late Prime Minister’s stature.
Similarly, Nze Sunday Nwafor, President of the Oko People’s Union, paid glowing tribute to Onowu, describing him as a man of simple Christian values, personal courage, and a dignified presence that inspired many.
Speaking on behalf of the burial committee, Chief Larry Iloh said the community owes a debt of gratitude to the late Onowu for his immeasurable service. He pledged that the committee will leave no stone unturned to ensure a successful and memorable burial ceremony.