- Lay reader Simon Chukwuemeka Ezienweilo eulogized as pillar of truth, peace, community courage
By Akuma Ebere
It was a day of solemnity, reverence and heartfelt tributes as Prince Chimezie Chukwuemeka, Obele Eze Oraifite joined hands with his siblings to lay their beloved father, Lay Reader Simon Chukwuemeka Ezienweilo, to eternal rest in Umuezeani, Obiofia Ibolo village Oraifite , Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The final rites commenced with a dignified service officiated by clergy and members of Our Saviour’s Anglican Church, Obiofia Ibolo, Diocese of Nnewi. A sea of mourners,family, friends and sympathizers from far and wide filled the church compound, offering their last respects to the late patriarch who died at the age of 69.
Born on January 3, 1956, to the late Oramadike and Nkeobuna Mgbojikwe, Ezienweilo was the only surviving son of his parents. He married Mrs. Ukamaka Chukwuemeka and was blessed with eight children, two of whom sadly predeceased him.
Described by many as a man of unshakable conviction, Ezienweilo was a beacon of leadership in his community, serving as chairman of his kindred for 21 years and as head of the community security team. Fearless and forthright, he championed truth without partiality earning the admiration of both the humble and the mighty. To his people, he was more than a leader; he was a symbol of courage and justice.
In an outpouring of emotion, his first son, Prince Chimezie Chukwuemeka (Obele Eze I of Oraifite), and third son, Evangelist Chibuike Chukwuemeka (Blessed Top), remembered their father as “a man who lived for peace, justice and the common good.” They thanked all who came to honour him and prayed for safe journeys home for the mourners.
Rev’d Onyengozi, visibly moved, described the burial as a divinely orchestrated success, citing the cooperative weather as a heavenly nod. “Our father was a reconciler ,a man who settled disputes from family quarrels to communal strife. His legacy of peace is our compass,” he said. He encouraged the living to embrace peace while they yet breathe.
He expressed profound gratitude to the burial committee, his spiritual mentors ,Ven. Ekenedilichukwu Iloanusi, Rev’d Chinonye Ilechukwu and the Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Ndubuisi Obi as well as Archbishop Emeritus, Most Rev. Prof. G.I.N. Okpala JP. He paid glowing tribute to his wife, siblings and in-laws for their unwavering support during the trying period.
The deceased’s brother, Mr. Uchenna Obunike (Ogbuefi Nwachinemelu), also paid tribute, describing the late Ezienweilo as “a hero of peace and a servant of God,” pledging to uphold the harmony he stood for.
Among dignitaries and clergy present were Rev’d Obinna Obaa (National Secretary of Oraifite Anglican Indigenous Clergy Association), Rev’d Esione, Chief Timus Obianefo, Rev’d Chris Okwosa, Rev’d Chukwuemeka and several others. They commended the family for honouring a man whose life, they said, remains a template of humility, fortitude and godly service.
Indeed, the final farewell to Lay Reader Simon Chukwuemeka Ezienweilo was not just a funeral,it was a celebration of a life lived in bold truth, tireless service, and unwavering faith.
