The family of Ilobanafor has officially released the funeral arrangements for their beloved patriarch, Chief Ogbuefi Clement Nwagbogu Ilobanafor (Esesuo Agbara I of Ozegu), who passed away on June 22, 2025, at the age of 93.
Chief Ilobanafor is fondly remembered for his wisdom, humility, and 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 all 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 (psc+Rtd), 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 other well-wishers and associates who have expressed their heartfelt sympathies to the family.
In a statement released by the Ilobanafor family, the funeral arrangements are scheduled as follows:
Monday, January 5, 2026
Christian Wake-Keep
Venue: His Compound, Umueke Ozegu, Enugwu-Inyi, Oji River LGA, Enugu State
Time: 5:00 PM
This gathering will offer family and friends the opportunity to share fond memories and testimonies of the late Chief Ilobanafor, a man widely regarded as a community development advocate and peace builder.
Tuesday, January 6, 2026
Requiem Mass
Venue: Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Enugwu-Inyi Parish, Inyi Town, Oji River LGA, Enugu State
Time: 10:30 AM
The Requiem Mass will be followed by the Funeral Rites and a Reception at his family compound, where guests will gather to honor and celebrate a life of service and enduring legacy.
Sunday, January 11, 2026
Thanksgiving Mass
Venue: Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Enugwu-Inyi Parish, Inyi Town, Oji River LGA, Enugu State
Time: 9:00 AM
The Thanksgiving Mass will mark the conclusion of the funeral ceremonies, serving as a celebration of 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 Ogbuefi Clement Nwagbogu Ilobanafor, whose kindness, integrity, and leadership left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
