The late publisher of Jungle Journalist, Mazi Onukwube ThankGod Ofoelue, was laid to rest on Saturday in Arochukwu, Abia State, amid grief, tributes, and emotional reflections from family members, associates, traditional leaders, and media stakeholders.
Delivering a sermon during the funeral service, Enyinnaya Okoroafor described death as a return home, expressing hope that the deceased would attain eternal rest based on his good works while alive. He encouraged the bereaved family to remain steadfast, noting that physical death represents only a temporary separation.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Okoronkwo Hyacinth Ofoelue described the late journalist as brilliant and exceptional from a young age. He expressed gratitude to sympathisers for their support throughout the mourning period and prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul.
Representatives of Nzuko Aro Worldwide, Emeka Charles Kanu and Dave E. Imoko, paid tribute to Ofoelue as a journalist who upheld integrity, truth, and professional conviction. They described his passing as a painful loss, especially at a time when his voice remained relevant in society.
In his remarks, Igboayaka O. Igboayaka noted that the deceased dedicated his career and platform to advancing the Igbo cause, practising journalism with courage and passion.
The speakers collectively described Ofoelue’s death as a significant loss not only to the Arochukwu Kingdom but also to the broader media and socio-cultural community, praying for strength for his family.
Dignitaries at the burial included Eberechukwu Oji (represented by Captain Eugene Okey Imuoh), Amos Kanu Oji, Ijiomah Obasi Ijiomah, Chimeremeze Okigbo, Njoku Usen, Emeka Echeta, Jerry Onwumere, Eugene Ntonta, Mathew Mgbo, Chukwu Dozie Okolo, Stella Iheanacho, Sister Erinma, Sister Nnaola Izuogu, and Edward Onyema, among others.
The funeral witnessed emotional scenes as friends, relatives, and associates paid their final respects to the late journalist, whose work through Jungle Journalist earned him recognition within media and socio-cultural circles.
