The remains of veteran journalist and publisher of Jungle Journalist, Mazi Onukwube ThankGod Ofoelue, have been laid to rest amid tears, glowing tributes and deep sorrow from family, friends, media practitioners and community leaders.
At the funeral ceremony held on Saturday, the Resident Preacher, Enyinnaya Okoroafor, President of the Arochukwu Branch of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, described death as a return home, expressing confidence that the late journalist would make heaven because of his commitment to righteousness and service.
The cleric urged the bereaved family to take heart despite the painful and irreplaceable loss, stressing that Christ came to abolish death, which he described as only a temporary separation from the body.
According to him, Christians have the freedom to choose between good and evil, adding that those who embrace good deeds would reunite with their heavenly Father.
Speaking on behalf of the Ofoelue family, Mazi Okoronkwo Hyacinth Ofoelue said the deceased was exceptionally intelligent and bright from childhood, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Also paying tribute, Chief Emeka Charles Kanu, a candidate for the Abia North Senatorial District, alongside Sir Dave E. Imoko (Ugwuaro), a retired Director of Media and Public Relations representing Nzuko Aro Worldwide, described the late publisher as a fearless journalist who worked with conviction and integrity.
They noted that ThankGod Ofoelue stood firmly for truth throughout his journalism career and remained committed to values that earned him respect across communities.
The duo lamented that he died too soon, describing the development as a painful loss not only to Arochukwu Kingdom but also to the journalism profession and society at large.
In his remarks, Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, said the late journalist dedicated his energy and platform to advancing the cause of Ndigbo and practised journalism driven by conviction rather than personal interest.
Dignitaries present at the burial included Eze Dr Eberechukwu Oji, represented by his media aide, Captain Eugene Okey Imuoh; Eze Ibom, Mazi Amos Kanu Oji; Mazi Ijiomah Obasi Ijiomah (Ochiwar); Mazi Chimeremeze Okigbo; Chief Njoku Usen; Prince Emeka Echeta; Mazi Jerry Onwumere; Comrade Eugene Ntonta; Comrade Mathew Mgbo; Professor Chukwu Dozie Okolo; Stella Iheanacho; Sister Erinma; Sister Nnaola Izuogu; Dr Edward Onyema, alongside other distinguished guests who gathered to honour the late media practitioner.
