The remains of late Mr. Onwukamuche Dickson Nwazuo-Ijebuonwu, popularly known as “Pilot” have been laid to rest in his hometown, Umuobasi Isiama Afaraukwu, Umuahia North LGA.
Until his death, Mr Onwuka, a staff of Government House Umuahia, served diligently as a Chief Driver attached to the Government House Press Corps.
Speaking on Friday, November 6, 2026 while receiving the remains of the deceased at Govt House Umuahia, before conveyance to his hometown for burial, the Permanent Secretary, Government House, Mr Precious Uma Okoro, described Mr Ijebuonwu as a dedicated and committed staff member who served with diligence, professionalism and devotion to duty.
Mr Precious Uma Okoro
The Permanent Secretary, who expressed sadness over the loss, noted that the deceased, was a dependable individual who related well with colleagues and demonstrated commitment to his responsibilities.
According to him, the demise of Mr. Ijebuonwu was painful, particularly at a time when his services were still needed, but urged his colleagues and loved ones to draw comfort from the Christian hope of resurrection.
“It pains me that we are losing such a man at a time like this. But our consolation is that those who die in Christ have the hope of resurrection and shall find rest in the bosom of the Lord’, he said.
Mr. Okoro encouraged members of staff to take solace in the fact that the deceased lived a good life and to emulate his positive attributes, particularly his dedication, commitment and spirit of service.
In his tribute during the funeral at Isiama Afara, the Head of Information and Press Government House Umuahia, Comrade Divine Nwankwo expressed sadness over the death of Mr. Ijebuonwu describing it as a monumental loss to members of the press.
Comrade Nwankwo said the deceased was “a very good man, a jolly good fellow, the toast of members of the press, a cheerful man that didn’t get angry“, noting that, he served everyone with unparalleled commitment.
He said that the press men would miss him greatly but urged members of the family to take solace in the fact that Mr. Ijebuonwu lived a good life worthy of emulation.
Delivering a sermon titled “Power of Choice,” a pastor of the Masters Vessel Church, Pastor Blessing Ukelere, said the ability to make choices was one of the fundamental rights God had bestowed on mankind.
The Cleric who described decision-making as an inevitable part of human life, noted that although God desires man to choose good over evil, He does not compel anyone to make the right choice.
He urged people to exercise caution and wisdom in their decisions, stressing the need to make choices they would not live to regret.
In a vote of thanks, elder brother of the deceased, Mr Nwazuo Ijebuonwu expressed profound appreciation to relatives, friends, associates, church members, dignitaries and other well-wishers who joined them to bid their departed loved one farewell.
He acknowledged the prayers and other acts of kindness extended to them, noting that the show of love and solidarity had provided immense strength and comfort during their period of grief and prayed God to reward all those who stood by them.
The burial ceremony drew a large gathering of mourners, including relatives, age grade, colleagues, friends and well-wishers.
