By Ebere Akum
Ogbaru main market traders led by their President, Chief Ndubuisi Ochiogu, recently joined the people of Ogidi in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State to bid farewell to late Chief Sir Samuel Ajaefo Mendu.
Other friends and well-wishers joined in the farewell trip as the event drew prominent dignitaries from various fields of human endeavours.
Speaking to the press, Chief Ndubuisi Ochiogu mentioned the significant contributions of the late Chief Mendu, also known as Onwa Ogidi, made to the growth and development of the Ogbaru Main Market as its Board of Trustees Chairman, noting his substantial financial investments.
Chief Mendu was born to the late Chief Mendu Chieke and Eunice Mendu in Ezi-Ogidi, Ogidi, Anambra State.
Renowned for his sympathy and philanthropy, the deceased built homes for needy widows and provided scholarships for deserving students in Ogidi and beyond, supporting degree courses in fields such as science, engineering, and medicine.
As a prominent socialite, he held various significant roles, including grand patron of the Great Committee of Friends, patron of the Royal League of Nigeria, life Vice President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ogbaru Main Market, among others.
Speaking on behalf of his late father, Chief Obiora Ajaefo Mendu (Nnanyelugo) described him as a compassionate individual dedicated to helping others, often taking on their burdens to alleviate their suffering.
Nnanyelugo expressed gratitude to everyone who traveled from far and near and contributed to the success of the burial, wishing them God’s guidance and protection.
Dignitaries who attended the burial, including Barr. Dan Okoye; Prince Nnaemeka Nnadozie (Ogbuefi Nzeakonobi); Edikpa Picady; Augustine Mbaekwe (Ngala Igbo); Chief Iyke Nwosu LP, and Chigbogu Nwinya, praised Onwa Oyoko as a gentleman and a great philanthropist whose commitment to human capital development transcended ethnic boundaries.
They urged his children to uphold the legacies their father left behind.
