Family Releases Funeral Arrangements for Late Chief Ilobanafor

Esther Oluku

The family of Ilobanafor has released the funeral arrangements for their beloved patriarch, Chief Clement Ilobanafor, who passed away on June 22, 2025, at the age of 93.

Late Ilobanafor is fondly remembered for his enduring commitment to community development. Throughout his life, he served as a pillar of unity, peace, and progress in Ozegu, Enugwu-Inyi, Oji River Local Government Area of Enugu State, earning the admiration of many who crossed his path.

Since his passing, an outpouring of tributes and condolences has continued to flow from across Nigeria, reflecting the depth of his impact and the legacy he leaves behind.

Notable among those who have sent in their condolences are: the Ywom Traditional Council, Garkawa District of Mikang Local Government Area, Plateau State, under the leadership of His Royal Highness, AIG Bashir E. Makama Dabup III, the Mwo-Ywom of Garkawa; Dr. Adedayo Olugbade Ajayi, Director General of Afe Babalola International Study Centre (ABISC); Pharm. (Prof.) Lere Baale, CEO of Business School Netherlands and President of the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy, along with his wife, Mrs. Ife Baale; and Pharm. Elechi Oyim, National Chairman, Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN), among many others.

In a statement released by the Ilobanafor family, the funeral arrangements are scheduled as follows: Christian wake-keep will hold at his Compound, Umueke Ozegu, Enugwu-Inyi, Oji River LGA, Enugu State on Monday, January 5, 2026 at 5:00pm.

A requiem nass will hold at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Enugwu-Inyi Parish, Inyi Town, Oji River LGA, Enugu state on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at 10:30am.

Funeral rites and a Reception will follow at his family compound, where guests will gather to honor and celebrate a life of service and enduring legacy.

Following the funeral rites, a thanksgiving mass will hold at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Enugwu-Inyi Parish, Inyi Town, Oji River LGA, Enugu State on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 9:00 AM.

The thanksgiving mass will mark the conclusion of the funeral ceremonies, serving as a celebration of late Chief Ilobanafor’s life, his faith, and the values he instilled in his family and community.

The Ilobanafor family invites relatives, friends, associates, and well-wishers to join them in celebrating the life and legacy of Chief Clement Ilobanafor, whose kindness, integrity, and leadership left an indelible mark on all who knew him.