Samuel Ogidan, Abuja
The 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, the governor of Anambra State, Charles Soludo and the Minister of Health, Ali Pate are expected to grace the burial ceremony of a distinguished member of the Second Republic of old Anambra State House of Assembly in 1983, late Chief, Sir, Engr. Dr. Ernest Madu Onyekwena.
Others, who are expected to attend the burial Onyekwena, who was elected under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), are the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Barrister Ifeanyi Ossai, Speaker of Anambra State house of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, Speaker of Enugu State house of Assembly, Hon. Uche Ugwu, traditional leaders from around the country, as well as other notable Nigerians and individuals from around the world.
The late Onyekwena, popularly called Omekannaya 1 Ufuma, served alongside notable figures such as the late President Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari (GCFR), the late Vice President Dr. Alexander Ifeanyichukwu Ekwueme (GCON), and the then Executive Governor of Anambra State, the late Chief Christian Chukwuma (C.C.) Onoh.
The burial of Onyekwena, who lived between 1946 to 2024, is slated Friday 30th to Saturday 31st August 2024, for the funeral arrangements in Ufuma, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Beyond his political career, the late Sir Ernest Madu Onyekwena was an accomplished Agricultural Engineer. He was a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, NSE, a Fellow of Nigerian Institution of Agricultural Engineers, NIAE and a Registered Engineer with the Council for Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, COREN. He was also a fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Agricultural Engineers and a one-time South-East Regional Chairman.
He was a pioneer in agricultural engineering, leaving an indelible mark on the industry through his innovative projects and his dedication to improving food security in Nigeria. His career, spanning over five decades, is marked by an unwavering commitment to innovation, and a passion for building a stronger agricultural infrastructure.
Sir Onyekwena’s impact is evident in the numerous projects he spearheaded, each a testament to his deep understanding of the challenges facing the Nigerian agricultural sector. Through his expertise, he led the development, installation and management of grain silos, abattoirs and agro-industrial plants across the country, as well as the assembly, marketing and maintenance of field machinery; his work impacted the lives of many farmers, producers, and consumers.
His expertise in grain storage systems is particularly noteworthy. His company, Portech Nigeria Limited, constructed grain storage complexes at nearly 20 sites across the country, ensuring the preservation of vital food supplies and contributing to a more stable agricultural economy. His work with the Strategic Grain Reserve, where he was appointed a National Consultant on Storage, further solidified his reputation as a leading expert in this field.
Dr. Onyekwena’s dedication to learning and knowledge sharing extended far beyond his technical expertise. He was a sought-after consultant, lending his insights to strategic committees tasked with overseeing critical sectors of the economy. His active participation in high-level seminars and conferences across the globe not only enhanced his own knowledge and skills but also provided a platform for him to generously share his vast experience.
He was a recipient of different honours for his work in agriculture including the “Award of Outstanding Excellence in Agricultural Engineering Practice,” he was also named one of the most successful Agricultural Engineers by “Giants of Agricultural Engineers in Nigeria.”
Dr. Onyekwena’s passion for education was also evident during his time as Chairman of the House Committee on Education in the Second Republic. His leadership played a pivotal role in the strategic siting of the Anambra State Polytechnic, Oko, adjacent to the secondary school built by Umunebonato-Ufum, a decision that has had profound impact on the lives of many students.
Engr. Dr. Ernest Madu Onyekwena’s dedication to education remains a cornerstone of his legacy. His commitment to fostering knowledge and opportunity for future generations is evident in his actions, both within his professional career and in his service to his community and the nation at large.
His commitment to his community was also deeply rooted. He served as President-General of the Ufuma Development Union, leading efforts to improve the lives of his fellow community members. His dedication to his hometown was recognized with the conferral of two chieftaincy titles, “Omekannaya 1 of Ufuma” and “Enebu of Umuenebu,” reflecting the respect and admiration he earned from his people.
In a statement signed by his son, the Deputy Director, Infectious Diseases Advocacy, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Dr Obinna Onyekwena, on behalf of the family, the late Sir Ernest Madu Onyekwena’s funeral rites will commence with a Service of Song on Friday, August 23, 2024, at 5 p.m. at his Enugu residence.
Other lined-up burial activities that will precede the interment are a valedictory session which will take place in his honour at the Anambra State House of Assembly Legislative building on Thursday 29th August, 2024.
The Christian wake will take place on the 30th of August 2024, by 6:pm, at the late Onyekwena’s country home in Ufuma, Anambra State. The burial activities shall be capped with a Thanksgiving Service by 9.am at the Holy Trinity Church, Ufuma.
In the meantime, prominent Nigerians throughout the world have begun to send in their condolence messages. In his message, His Royal Highness, Diji III of Ufuma, the traditional ruler of Ufuma town, described the late Onyekwena as a community champion. He called on all natives of Ufuma to come out en mass to pay their last respects to the late Chief, Sir, Engr. Dr. Ernest Madu Onyekwena.
The statement said: “The late Onyekwena’s life was a beacon of inspiration for his peers, his family, and his community and the nation at large. His achievements were not only remarkable but also unique, reflecting his commitment to excellence and his dedication to making a difference.
“He will be remembered as a true visionary, a leader, and a champion for progress.”
