Born in the year 1930 into a noble family of the Late Pa John Uchendu of Unuegbu Kindred, Okpunoifite village, Ogboji in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State, the Late Nze John Onwuesogbuo Uchendu, popularly known as “Ulo Udo Di” could be described as a man of many positive attributes in view of his peaceful disposition and eventful life. He gave all that nature endowed him with to the service of God and humanity. God in His infinite mercy, rewarded his good deeds with longevity as he died a devout Christian at the ripe age of 93.
The Late Nze John Onwuesogbuo Uchendu was a lover of Education. He attended primary school in Ogboji but due to certain unforeseen circumstances, “Ulo Udo Di” could not further his education. He opted for business and became a household name in the field of business. To show his love for education, he ensured that he gave sound education to his children and others.
In the business field where the Late Nze Uchendu ventured, he was exceptional. He was into all kinds of business such as transportation, timber and building materials and palm oil products. For many years, “Papa” was an active supplier of these materials to the Northern and Southern parts of Nigeria. He was a reliable business man and he won the hearts of his business partners with truthfulness. After the death of his father, he settled down at home, being the only son of his parents. It is on record that “Ulo Udo Di” operated a big beach where he supplied sand and also became a famous butcher. Indeed, he was a born business man.
“Ụlọ Udo dị” was a loving husband and father. He had three wives-Late Ezinne Theresa, Comfort and Mary Uchendu. “Ulo Udo Di” had fourteen children out of which three are decease. He related well with all his siblings and supported them in all their endeavors. It is due to the love he had for all his descendants that they all affectionately referred to him as “Papa Nnukwu”.
He was never found wanting in Community Affairs. He made giant contributions to the development of his home town, Ogboji and beyond. His philanthropy knew no bounds as he was ever ready to share in the pains of other people by assisting the needy the much he could. He was a role model and positive influence on many people, having nurtured and mentored a lot of people to become useful in life. Ndi Ogboji, Ndi Orumba and indeed Ndi Anambra have lost a virtuous man whose life was outstanding in all ramifications.
The Late Nze John Onwuesogbuo Uchendu was a great man, no matter what standard greatness is measured. He found favour from God both in life and in death as nature was so kind to amazingly distinguish him among his contemporaries. He was really a man of the people who came, saw and conquered through hard work and by the special grace of God.
Though Nze John Onwuesogbuo Uchendu transited from this world on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 into eternity, his glorious life are enough consolation to the Uchendu family, Ogboji community, Orumba South and Anambra State at large as he gave good account of his life and also rendered quality service to God and humanity.
It is expected that people from all walks of life will converge on Ogboji on the 3rd November, 2023 to pay their last respect to the Late Nze John Onwuesogbuo Uchendu. The funeral ceremonies will start with a burial mass at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Ogboji, Orumba South Local Government Area by ten o’clock in the morning after which “Ulo Udo Di” will be buried in his compound.
He is survived by many children, grand children and great grand children among whom is the Transition Committee Chairman, Orumba South Local Government Area, Hon. Prince Neville Uchendu (Mayor of Atlanta).
“Ulo Udo Di”, may your gentle soul rest in peace, Amen.
Written by PRINCE NEVILLE UCHENDU
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