Human rights lawyer and social crusader Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor has lost his foster father, Chief David Onuorah Maduneme (Odanike Anam/Odogwu na Akpa Alo Anam).
Maduneme passed away on November 3, 2024, at the age of 73, after a brief illness.
Chief David Onuorah Maduneme, a former Special Assistant to the Anambra State Governor on Security, hailed from Umuoba Anam in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State.
In a statement on Friday, Sir Ejiofor described the late Maduneme as both his hero and benefactor.
According to Ejiofor, Chief Maduneme was not just a foster father but “everything” to him.
“I mean, he was everything to me in every sense of it. I am deeply broken by his tragic death,” Ejiofor said.
He went on to highlight Maduneme’s commitment to justice, describing him as a man who lived a life of courage, always standing fearlessly in defense of truth and justice, and never faltering in the face of adversity.
The statement reads:
“My eternal hero has departed this world to join our ancestors in the beyond. Though one day we shall meet again at the final judgment, I can hardly bear the thought of your absence. Farewell, Odogwu Na Akpa-alo Nke Mbu Na Anam – the unshakable warrior, the resilient protector.
“The mighty iroko has indeed fallen, and the heavens have cloaked themselves in mourning.
“I am struggling to comprehend that you are truly gone, Odanike. How could it happen? You, who lived a life on the battlefield, standing fearlessly in defense of truth and justice. You didn’t fall in the heat of combat, nor were you struck down by an enemy’s hand; instead, you passed away peacefully.
“A celebrated crime fighter across the South East and the nation, you devoted yourself to dismantling the forces of darkness. With every act, you struck powerful blows against the enemies of our land, tirelessly pursuing justice and condemning every form of evil.
“Can it be true that you are no longer with us, Odogwu na Akpa-alo? You were the one in a million, the only tree that could stand alone as a forest, towering and steadfast.
We dare not question God, yet the shock and weight of this loss is overwhelming.
“Though you left us with wise words and a legacy that will echo for generations, your continued presence would have made this world all the brighter. Friends, family, and loved ones across our community are grieving with disbelief.
“Odanike, men like you only come once in a lifetime; truly, Umuoba Anam has lost a treasure.
“As I witnessed your internment, Nna Anyi Odanike, I was engulfed by varying thoughts and emotions, yet, we cannot question God’s design. I, however, take comfort in knowing that I fulfilled my duties to you as a loyal foster son, without hesitation or reserve.
“As I bid you farewell from this world, I pray that the Almighty, who sees every heart, will welcome you into eternal peace.
“To your beloved wives, precious children, and the entire Umuoba Anam community, may the Lord’s comfort enfold you and give you strength to bear this profound loss.
“Odogwu, rest well in the bosom of the Almighty God until we meet again, never to part. Farewell, Nnam. Farewell, Odogwu na Akpa-alo. Farewell, Odanike Anam. Rest in peace, my Hero.”
