Coffin containing the remains of Chief Ikedife
By Sunny A. David, Nnewi
Typical of Dr. Dozie Ikedife, the committal to mother earth of the former President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo World Wide was symbolic and reflected core Igbo tradition.
Dr. Ikedife who died at 86 years, was buried at his country home, Nnewi in line with his last wish that his rites of passage begin at sunset within 24 hours of his demise.
The burial rites has in attendance Governor Willie Obiano, represented by the Secretary to the state Government Professor Solo Chukwulobelu, the state Chairman Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Damian Okeke Ogene, members of the Nigerian Medical Association, Dennis Memorial Grammar School Old Boys Association, representatives of the Rotary Club International among others.
Governor Obiano while sympathising with the Ikedike family noted that Anambra and the entire Igbo nation has indeed lost an icon calling on the family to uphold his legacy by remaining a united family.
In a condolence message, the Anambra State President of Ohaneze Ndi-igbo, Chief Ogene who described late Ikedife as a true leader and a role model, maintained that his fight for Justice, fairness and Equity will continue as he has nurtured and inspired many including himself.
For the family of late Ikedife including his son Dozie Ikedife Junior and his daughter Mrs. Chinazo Ikedife Ileka, their father lived a life worthy of emulation noting that though he has passed on, his good deeds and love will forever live.
He said that they will take solace in the good life he lived and the moment they shared with him while on earth and they however prayed God to grant him eternal rest.
Others who spoke at the event including the District Governor, District 9142 of the Rotary club international, Rotarian Dan Ajawara represented by the Assistant District Governor Rotarian Paul Ileka and the first Vice President of DMGS Old Boys worldwide Engineer Bernard Nwanya, prayed for God to give the people he left behind the fortitude to bear the great loss.
Left to mourn him were his wife Chief Mrs. Christie ikedife, seven children and sixteen grandchildren.
