By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
A Life Well Lived, A Farewell Well Honoured: Umuguma Bids Sir Benjamin Okorie Goodbye
There are men whose lives speak louder in death than in words. Chief/Sir Ukachukwu Benjamin Okorie was one of such men. When he was finally laid to rest, Umuguma did not just host a burial; it witnessed a celebration of legacy, love, and quiet impact.
The burial rites of the late patriarch, father of journalist, writer and poet Mr Ukachukwu Okorie, founder and CEO of AfricaWorld News and Owere Chronicles, drew friends, family, dignitaries and well-wishers from far and near, all united by one purpose; to honour a man who lived peacefully and left footprints of kindness behind.
The wake-keep held on December 17 at Umuguma, Owerri, was lively, warm and deeply communal.
Villagers, friends and associates gathered as music filled the air, led by Shama, the popular life band musician famed for the song “Shama Azutala Motor.” His performance added colour and rhythm to the night, keeping guests on their feet and drawing admiration from all corners.
As laughter mingled with memories, a well-organised suya night kept guests well fed, reflecting the Igbo belief that “onye nwetara ozu, nwetakwa ndi mmadu” — when death comes, people must be cared for.
The celebration stretched into the late hours of the night, with entertainment flowing freely and everyone feeling at home.
A Burial Befitting a Man of Honour
The following morning, December 18, marked the burial proper.
The body of late Sir Benjamin was brought from the mortuary to his residence at World Bank, Owerri, and later to the church for a funeral mass before returning to his compound in Umuguma for final interment.
Professional undertakers handled the rites with dignity, while caterers and decorators ensured the event was orderly and tasteful. Members of AfricaWorld News media team were fully on ground, documenting the ceremony and ensuring moments were preserved for history.
The interment was smooth and hitch-free, drawing respected personalities including traditional rulers, clergy, Knights of the church, politicians, artistes and community leaders.
As the Igbo adage says, “a na-esi n’ulo mara onye mmadu bu” — a man is known by the calibre of people who stand with him.
Guests were interviewed by Oma, a reporter with AfricaWorld News, as tributes poured in.
One of the most touching moments came when Mr Levi Oguike, a playwright, poet and childhood friend of the deceased, spoke fondly of their shared years.
He described Sir Benjamin as a man of peace and principle who left lasting marks in Umuguma and Owerri through quiet service and integrity.
Visibly movede, Dr (Mrs) Kate Okorie Ufere, a close relative, broke down in tears while recounting the late Sir Benjamin’s kindness, humility and open-door nature. “He was accommodating to a fault,” she said, struggling to hold back emotion. “He lived like a father to many.”
Renowned Igbo thinker Prof. Pita Ejiofor once said, “Ezi aha ka ego” — a good name is worth more than wealth. Those words found true meaning in the testimonies shared that day.
Guests were treated to an abundance of food and drinks, while security personnel maintained order throughout the event. Yet beyond the logistics and ceremonies, what lingered most was the sense that a good man had gone home.
In the words of celebrated writer Chinua Achebe, “A man who uses his hands, head and heart leaves behind a story bigger than himself.” Sir Benjamin Okorie’s story is one of peace, service and quiet strength.
As Umuguma lowered him into the earth, it was clear that though he is gone, his legacy remains rooted in the hearts of those he touched. For, as the elders say, “onye oma anaghi anwu anwu” — a good person never truly dies.
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