Ibe family distributes bags of rice, pledges two-storey guest house to Church in honour of late Matriarch

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By Sunny A. David, Awka

The peaceful community of Isu-Awaa in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State was last week enveloped in reverence and celebration as family members, clergy, dignitaries, and well-wishers gathered to honour the life and legacy of Lady Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe (née Chime), fondly called Black Indigo or Apụnanwụ, who passed on at the age of 90.

The occasion also marked the 10th memorial anniversary of her late husband, Chief Benson Maduabuchukwu Ibe, as the family held a four-day funeral ceremony tagged “Black Indigo Goes Home”, from December 18 to 21, 2025, at the Cathedral Church of Saint Mark’s, Isu-Awaa.

Lady Ezinne Eunice Ibe was celebrated as a devoted Anglican lay reader, Jerusalem pilgrim, accomplished businesswoman, lover of music and dance, and a woman whose life was defined by faith, generosity, and service to humanity.

No fewer than five Anglican bishops graced the ceremony, including the pioneer Archbishop of Enugu Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Dr. Amos Madu; Bishop of Afikpo Diocese, Rt. Rev. Paul Udege; Bishop of Eha-Amufu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Daniel Oliha; and the pioneer Bishop of Awgu/Aninri Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Afam Ugwu, while other dioceses were duly represented. Over thirty priests also attended, reflecting the widespread impact of the late matriarch.

Prominent dignitaries present included Governor Peter Mba of Enugu State, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, former House of Representatives member Hon. Toby Okechukwu, former Aviation Minister Chief Osita Chidoka, former PDP Publicity Secretary Barrister Olisa Metuh, NUJ Anambra Chairman Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, and several political, business, and traditional leaders. Nigerian Ambassadors to Malawi and Uganda, Ambassador Ben Shida and Ambassador Sam Umara, were also in attendance.

Born in 1935 into the family of the late Chimengwu of Isu-Awaa, Lady Ezinne Eunice rose from humble beginnings through hard work and faith. She was married to Chief Benson Ibe, with whom she raised eight children, including Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe, Executive Vice Chairman of Baywood Group and founder of Save Awgu Forum Enugu (SAFE).

In honour of her lifelong compassion, the Ibe family, led by Emperor Ibe, carried out a Christmas outreach ahead of the burial, distributing 1,050 bags of rice, vegetable oil, and seasoning cubes to families across the 21 communities of Awgu LGA. The exercise, coordinated by SAFE, was conducted transparently and aimed at sustaining the late matriarch’s legacy of caring for the needy.

Beneficiaries expressed deep gratitude, describing the gesture as dignified and impactful, especially during the festive season. Observers commended the initiative as a demonstration of leadership rooted in service and empathy.

The funeral activities were enriched with cultural displays, traditional music, royal visits, praise worship, and an all-night vigil, transforming mourning into a celebration of a fulfilled life.

In his sermon, the Bishop of Awgu/Aninri Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Benson N. Chukwunweike (JP), reminded the congregation that life is measured not by length but by impact, urging Christians to live righteously and finish well.

In another major gesture, the Ibe family announced a pledge to construct a two-storey guest house at Saint Mark’s Cathedral, Isu-Awaa, with the foundation expected to be laid in the first quarter of 2026.

Lady Ezinne Eunice Ibe was later laid to rest beside her late husband at the family compound, amid solemnity and celebration. Speaking during the vote of thanks, Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe emphasized family unity and reaffirmed the family’s commitment to sustaining their mother’s legacy of faith, service, and compassion.

According to him, “Though Black Indigo Apụnanwụ has departed, her values, spirit, and the lives she touched will continue to guide generations to come.”