The Oko community in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State has concluded plans for the burial and final rites of passage of its late traditional Prime Minister, Onowu Oko, Ichie Martin Ezeosim, scheduled to hold on Thursday, October 9, 2025.
The announcement of his passing and burial arrangements was jointly made by His Royal Highness, Igwe Prof. Laz Ekwueme, Eze Ijikala II, and his cabinet; the Oko People’s Union (OPU); as well as the Ezeosim family.
The late Onowu, who was second-in-command to the Igwe of Oko, passed away at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy of outstanding service and contributions to the growth and unity of the Oko community.
According to the burial programme, a Christian funeral service will take place at his country home in Eziabo Village, Oko, followed by a reception and traditional rites at the Alex Ekwueme Civic Centre, Oko.
A burial committee, headed by Chief Larry Iloh, a member of the Oko Council of Chiefs, has been constituted to coordinate the ceremonies. The committee comprises prominent members representing all sectors of the community and is working to ensure a befitting farewell that will draw participation from government officials, community members, and friends of Oko both at home and abroad.
Speaking on the passing of the revered leader, Igwe Prof. Ekwueme described the late Onowu as “an illustrious, reliable, and hardworking leader whose impact spanned various aspects of community life.” He urged the committee to uphold the dignity and honour of the Oko throne by organizing a ceremony worthy of the late traditional prime minister.
Also paying tribute, President of OPU, Nze Sunday Nwafor, described the late Onowu as “a humble Christian leader whose simplicity, bravery, and admirable carriage remain worthy of emulation.”
In his remarks, Chief Iloh, Chairman of the Burial Committee, expressed the community’s deep appreciation for the life and service of the late Onowu, noting that his contributions would remain invaluable to Oko’s history. He assured that every effort is being made to ensure that sons, daughters, and friends of Oko turn out in large numbers to honour the departed statesman.
