Tribute to Ochi I of Isuochi
Abia State Government
Due Process & Public Procurement Bureau (DPPPB)
August 25, 2025
Hon. Prince Ikedi Ezekwesiri
Palace of Ochi I,
Umuelem Isuochi,
Umunneochi LGA
Abia State
Tribute to Ochi I of Isuochi
HRM Eze Sir Dr. Godwin Irononso Ezekwesiri
The ancient land of Isuochi mourns. A towering iroko has fallen, and the echoes of his departure resound across our hills and valleys. The Ochi I of Isuochi, His Royal Majesty, Eze Sir Dr. Godwin Irononso Ezekwesiri, the pioneer paramount traditional ruler of our ancient kingdom, has joined our ancestors.
For decades, Ochi I stood as the custodian of our heritage, the guardian of our unity, and the embodiment of dignity in leadership. His reign was not merely about the crown upon his head, but about the wisdom he carried in his heart and the vision he nurtured for his people since he ascended the throne of Isuochi in May 1974. He personified the strength and resilience of the Isuochi spirit.
As the pioneer custodian of our throne, Eze Ezekwesiri gave Isuochi a royal identity that commanded respect across Abia State and beyond. His voice was steady in times of crisis, his counsel a balm to troubled souls, and his presence an assurance of stability. He was not just a king; he was a father, a teacher, and a light-bearer to generations.
Ochi I lived as a bridge between tradition and modernity. He served meritoriously in councils of Ndi Eze at different times in Old Imo State, Abia State, the southeast region of Nigeria and at national levels. He wore his crown with humility yet defended the dignity of our people with uncompromising courage. His wisdom attracted statesmen, his generosity uplifted the poor, and his legacy will continue to inspire leaders who come after him.
As we bid farewell to a great monarch, I shall remember Ochi I fondly for his recognition of my service to our people through the conferment of the High Chieftaincy title of Ugochituberem I of Isuochi Ancient Kingdom and I bow in reverence to his cherished memory. The staff of authority may be laid down, momentarily, but the spirit of Ochi I will never depart from Isuochi as he lives on in our traditions, our stories, and the enduring pride of our people.
Farewell, great King. Rest in the bosom of The Almighty. May the heavens receive you as the noble king you were, and may your legacy continue to illuminate the path of Isuochi forever.
Indeed, the King is Dead. Long Live the King!!!
High Chief Oluebube A. Chukwu, Ph.D., mnipr
Ugochituberem I of Isuochi Ancient Kingdom
Senior Special Assistant to Abia State Governor on Due Process & Head, Due Process & Public Procurement Bureau
Government House, Umuahia
Government House, Umuahia, Abia State
dueprocess.publicprocurementbureau@abiastate.gov.ng
