Over nine decades ago, in Eziowelle, Idemili North Council Area, Anambra State, a remarkable journey began with the birth of John Obide Akukwe.

He was the son of  Chief Ngwuakpu Akukwenze, the second Warrant Chief of Eziowelle and Madam Theresa Akukwe.

His education began at Catholic Primary School, Dunukofia, where he shared classrooms with distinguished minds like Cardinal Francis Arinze, Chartered Accountant Charles Amobi, and Professor James Awachie. He continued his academic pursuit at Metropolitan Secondary School, Onitsha. Young John was taught at the Catholic Primary School Dunukofia by teachers that became Catholic Bishops including Bishop Mary-Grace Paul Okoye; Bishop Anthony Gogo Nwedo; and, Bishop Mark Unegbu. His deep Catholic faith was further cemented when he was baptized by Blessed Cyprian Tansi, now on the path to sainthood.

John Akukwe began his professional journey as a clerk at Leventis, Lagos, rising to become one of the first Nigerians to attain the position of Deputy Manager at Kingsway, Lagos. His career path later took him to the National Broadcasting House, Lagos, where he worked as a broadcaster. However, he soon found his true passion in business, quickly making a name for himself as a successful entrepreneur. By the age of twenty-seven, he had already built his first home on the scenic hills of Jos and laid the foundation for the Onowu Villa in Eziowelle.

Beyond business, Chief Akukwe was a man deeply committed to service. He held over sixty leadership positions, including serving as the third National President of the Peoples Club of Nigeria and as Supervisory Councillor of Education in Old Idemili Local Government Area. His influence extended to philanthropy, where he sponsored the education of countless children, many of whom have become billionaires, industry captains, scholars, and leaders in their own right.

A champion of women’s empowerment, he pioneered the education of girls, supporting many to attain doctorate degrees and leadership positions in complex institutions. His generosity extended to funding businesses for young entrepreneurs, providing aid to widows, and advocating for the voiceless. Despite his towering achievements, he remained a man of humility, integrity, and deep community spirit.

Chief  Akukwe is survived by his  wife  Madam Regina Akukwe and  children, namely Professor Chinua Akukwe, Engineer Chuka Akukwe, Barrister Nwamaka Akukwe, Reverend  Obinna Akukwe and Dr. Onyeka   Akukwe, among many other relatives.

To bid Onowu Eziowelle a final bye, Christian Wake will be held at his residence, Okpaliko, Eziowelle, today  Thursday, March six, 2025, at five o’clock in the evening . A Requiem Mass officiated by Archbishop Valerian Okeke will take place on Friday, March 7, 2025, at  ten o’clock in the morning  at St. Edward’s Catholic Church, Eziowelle, followed by interment at his residence and a reception at Eziowelle Civic Center. A Thanksgiving Mass will be held on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at  half past nine o’clock in the morning  at St. Edward’s Catholic Church, Eziowelle.

Onowu John Obide Akukwe leaves behind a towering legacy of leadership, service, and generosity. His life was a testament to selfless giving, community building, and unwavering faith.

May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

PROFESSOR   CHINUA AKUKWE

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