By Christian Aburime
The ancient town of Isuofia stood still in solemn reflection as Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo joined dignitaries, clergy, traditional rulers, family members and mourners to bid a final farewell to the late traditional ruler of the community, Igwe Lt. Col. Christopher Moghalu (Rtd.), at a Pontifical Funeral Mass held at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Isuofia.
The funeral Mass, celebrated by the Catholic Bishop of Ekwulobia Diocese, His Eminence Peter Ebere Cardinal Okpalaeke, was marked by heartfelt tributes to a monarch remembered for his unwavering commitment to peace, education, faith, culture and community development.
‘He Was an Iroko Who Lived to Matter’ – Soludo
Paying glowing tribute, Governor Soludo described the late monarch as an “Iroko” whose 88 years on earth were defined by remarkable service and enduring impact rather than longevity.
“We don’t just live; we live to matter. And when it is all done, it is not how long but how well,” the governor said.
He praised the late royal father as a man of integrity who devoted his life to building people, strengthening the community and preserving cultural values.
“He was a man of his word. He was a builder of people, community, church, faith, tradition and culture,” Soludo noted.
The governor particularly recalled the monarch’s passion for education, revealing that the late Igwe personally visited him to appreciate the state’s intervention at Amorji Primary School, Isuofia, while sharing his lifelong efforts to encourage educational advancement within the community.
Offering reassurance to the people of Isuofia as they begin the succession process, Soludo urged unity and peace.
“God brought peace to Isuofia after twenty years, and I assure you we will have this transition in peace. The best way to honour this Iroko is to uphold the values he lived for,” he added.
Cardinal Okpalaeke Calls for Peaceful Succession
In his homily, Cardinal Okpalaeke reminded mourners that Christians grieve with hope because of Christ’s victory over death.
“We do not mourn as those without hope. Our hope rests in the victory of Christ over death. A baptized child of God journeys to heaven; he does not die,” the Cardinal said.
He commended the late monarch for successfully harmonising his Christian faith with his traditional responsibilities.
“The departed traditional ruler demonstrated that one can preserve cultural heritage without compromising Christian faith. He did this exceptionally well,” he said.
The Cardinal further explained that the Church and traditional institutions are complementary partners in building society, rather than competitors.
He also appealed to the people of Isuofia to ensure that the selection of a new traditional ruler is peaceful and devoid of rancour.
“Let the process never become a source of hatred. Preserve the peace he cherished. That will be the greatest honour we can pay him,” he urged.
Army General Pays Emotional Tribute
An emotional moment came when a representative of the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Osita Okoye, revealed the profound influence the late monarch had on his military career.
“What I am today, he contributed 90 per cent. He ensured that I gained admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1990,” the senior military officer said, describing the late monarch as a mentor whose impact extended far beyond Isuofia.
A Legacy That Will Endure
As Isuofia prepares for the formal Ofala ceremony scheduled for January 5, 2027, tributes continued to pour in for the late royal father, whose reign was widely acknowledged as one of peace, selfless service, educational advancement and community development.
Though the revered monarch has departed, his enduring legacy of faith, integrity and dedication to the common good is expected to remain a guiding light for generations to come.
Tags: Soludo, Isuofia, Igwe Christopher, Moghalu, Anambra
