By Udekwe Okue-Agbomma
The Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Chief Tony Collins Nwabunwanne, on Friday joined hundreds of sympathisers at the burial ceremony of Chief Francis Nzedigwe Okeke, father-in-law to Barrister Ikechukwu Chukwudobelu.
The deceased, who hailed from Umuezeanya quarter in Umuoba Anam community, was laid to rest following proper burial rites that drew dignitaries from across Anambra East and West Local Governments Area and beyond. Commissioner Nwabunwanne’s presence at the ceremony underscored the government’s solidarity with grieving families and communities during times of loss.
During the ceremony, a prominent socio-political group known as G-8 in Anambra West made a customary presentation called “Itu uni,” which involved a substantial cash donation to support the bereaved son-in-law, Barr. Chukwudobelu. The traditional practice, common in Igbo communities, demonstrates communal support for families during funeral arrangements and helps offset burial expenses.
The members of G-8 are Hon. Ike Obiesili (Igbiligba 1,2,3); Hon. Fidelis Nnazor, Mayor, Anambra West LGA; Comrade CJ Jekwu, President General, Ifite Anam; Hon. (Mrs) Edith Ndive, Deputy Mayor, Anambra West LGA; Lady Chinyere Mmoya (Okpueze diya); Hon. Paul Offorzor (Orimmili); Hon. Ikechukwu Chukwudobelu and Comrade Raphael Obeche.
Barrister Chukwudobelu, along with his family members, expressed profound gratitude to all who attended the burial ceremony and offered support during their period of mourning. The legal practitioner acknowledged the overwhelming show of solidarity from both government officials and community members who travelled from various locations to pay their final respects to the late Chief Okeke.
Community elders, age-grade associations, and various groups from within and outside Umuoba Anam participated in the funeral rites, reflecting the deceased’s standing within the community.
Chief Francis Nzedigwe Okeke’s burial attracted a cross-section of society, including political leaders, business associates, and family friends, all of whom gathered to honour his memory and provide comfort to the grieving family. The ceremony served as both a celebration of the deceased’s life and a demonstration of the strong communal bonds that characterise Igbo society.
Commissioner Nwabunwanne’s attendance at the burial reflects the Anambra State government’s policy of maintaining close ties with communities and demonstrating empathy during significant events in citizens’ lives. His presence also highlighted the importance the administration places on traditional customs and community solidarity.
The G-8 group’s “Itu uni” presentation represents one of several traditional practices that continue to thrive in contemporary Igbo society, serving as a social safety net that provides practical support to families during challenging periods. Such customs reinforce community cohesion and ensure that no family bears the burden of major life events alone.
Barrister Chukwudobelu’s appreciation for the support received during his father-in-law’s burial ceremony reflects the success of these traditional mechanisms in providing both emotional and material assistance to bereaved families across Igbo communities in Anambra State.
