Great Okeatu of Inyi Goes Home April 7
By Odita Sunday
The family of the late Ogbuehi Eugene Ashiegbu Ezete has announced that his final rites of passage will take place on April 7, as they celebrate a life defined by resilience, enterprise, and service to humanity.
Ogbuehi Eugene Ashiegbu Ezete was born on January 1, 1936, into the family of the late Omere Ashiegbu Ezete of Inyi in Oji-River Local Government Area of Enugu State. From a humble beginning, he developed values that defined his life — hard work, resilience, integrity, deep faith in God, and a sincere commitment to the welfare of others.
Though he did not have the privilege of extensive Western education, he possessed remarkable wisdom, practical intelligence, and a deep understanding of life and people. Through determination, discipline, and faith in God, he built a successful life, raised a strong family, empowered others, and left behind a legacy of honour and integrity. As a young man seeking greener pastures, he moved to Bukuru in Plateau State after learning the timber trade at the renowned Onitsha Timber Market (Ogbo Osisi), eventually settling in Jos where he began work as a sawyer.
Through perseverance, he established his own timber enterprise and became a respected dealer and transporter before the outbreak of the Nigerian Civil War, which disrupted his progress. Undeterred, he rebuilt his life after the war, relocating to Abakaliki where he rose again as a successful timber merchant.
A visionary entrepreneur, he diversified into agriculture, commodity trading, and construction, and founded “O! Chukwu Transport Company,” which gained prominence across Abakaliki and beyond for reliability and diligence.
Through contracting, he contributed significantly to education by constructing schools in Abakaliki and neighbouring communities, leaving enduring monuments of development.
He also mentored many in the timber trade, including the late Chief Linus Ede, after whom the Abakaliki Timber Market was named. Under his guidance, Ede learned principles that shaped his successful career.
Ogbuehi Ezete was known for his progressive outlook, introducing his wife, Mrs. Theresa Ifeoma Ezete, into the timber business at a time it was male-dominated. She excelled, earning the affectionate title “Osodieme,” meaning “Husband’s Helper.”
A devout Christian, he lived by honesty and righteousness, earning a reputation for generosity and compassion. His home was open to many, and he gave quietly without seeking recognition.
He was a respected elder who believed in modest living and contentment, with a warm personality and humour that endeared him to many.
He once declined an opportunity to relocate to the United Kingdom, offered by a business associate, choosing instead to recommend his younger brother, demonstrating selflessness and commitment to family.
He was a member of Emmanuel Anglican Church, Azuiyiokwu, Abakaliki, Peoples Club of Nigeria (Abakaliki Chapter), and the Chief Linus Ede Memorial Timber Shade.
He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His life, the family said, remains a testament to perseverance, faith, and the dignity of honest labour.
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