Royal rites, Thanksgiving as Damian Okoroafor Laid his Father Patriarch to Rest at 91

The Umumadukwe Royal Family of Umulowu Amuzi in Obowo Local Government Area of Imo State has buried its patriarch, Chief Philip Ifeanyi Okoroafor, bringing to a close a series of funeral rites that blended royal tradition with Christian solemnity. He was 91.

The ceremonies, attended by dignitaries from within and outside Nigeria, reflected the dual pillars that defined his life — heritage and faith — as traditional observances were held alongside a thanksgiving service in honour of the nonagenarian.

Chief Okoroafor, born in 1933, was widely regarded as a respected son of Obowo whose life embodied perseverance and transformation. Raised in a large traditional household, he rose through discipline and enterprise to become a successful businessman before serving for years as a staff member of the University of Benin.

Following his retirement, he established a microfinance business that supported families, traders and young entrepreneurs across the community. Many beneficiaries attended the burial ceremonies, paying tribute to what they described as his mentorship, generosity and financial guidance.

He was married on August 19, 1967, to Lolo Gertrude Obeakwauwa Okoroafor of Umuosochie, Obowo. Their union produced six children — two sons and four daughters — all of whom survive him, alongside 21 grandchildren.

Among his children is Damian Ifeanyi Okoroafor, a serial entrepreneur and businessman with operations spanning Nigeria and the United States. Based in Lagos and abroad, Damian is the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of several enterprises, including DKM Nigeria Ltd, Split Communications, LarryScholes and Mindray Technologies ETC. Family sources described him as one of the torchbearers of the Okoroafor legacy, continuing the values of enterprise and philanthropy instilled by his father.

Residents of Umulowu Amuzi said the funeral drew traditional rulers, academics, business associates and community leaders, many of whom described the late patriarch as a bridge between generations.

“He represented stability and wisdom. When elders like this depart, an entire archive of history goes with them,” a community member said during the ceremonies.

Family members noted that his life embodied the meaning of his name, Ifeanyi — nothing is impossible with God — stressing that the burial was not only a moment of mourning but also one of gratitude for a life lived with purpose and impact.

With his interment now concluded, the community reflects on the enduring legacy of a patriarch whose influence, they say, will continue to resonate through his children, grandchildren and the many lives he touched.