CYRIACUS IZUEKWE
It is very true that death has a way of reminding those alive about the memories of the past, both good and bad. And as we look back and reminisce about an Icon, High Chief Innocent Chukwuma Anulunkor, Ezedinobi in Umuchu town, Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, what mostly comes to mind is the nostalgic encounter with a man full of wisdom, compassion, love and milk of human kindness, which High Chief Innocent Anulunkor personified.
It all started as a rumour and mere dream that will fizzle out when the day breaks. But the purported dream and rumour eventually became reality as it spread like wild fire that the beacon of hope of the poor, the widows and less privileged people in the society, Chief Innocent Anulunkor, has passed on.
Late Chief Ezedinobi was an epitome of success borne out of rare combination of tenacity, hard work, resilience and love for God and humanity through out his life before being snatched by the cold hands of death.
Ezedinobi, as he was fondly called, was born into the great Anulunkor family of Umuezeohia, Umungodo in Ibughubu Village, Umuchu town, Aguata LGA of Anambra State.
He was very well known in his community, town, Anambra State, Nigeria and beyond. Those who knew him had spoken volumes about his impeccable character and disarming smile. He would go out of his way to help others despite the gender, ethnicity and creed. High Chief Innocent is a true Igbo man to the core, a socialite per excellence, who also enjoyed spending quality time with family and loved ones.
Ezedinobi was a devout member of the Catholic Church, which was responsible for his strong Christian foundation. He was a former Chairman of St Joseph’s Christian Fathers Association Foyer Pie xii, Lome Togo, former Patron, Amachee Choir, Foyer Pie xii Catholic Parish Lome Togo.
Late Chief Ezedinobi also belonged to different political and social organizations both locally and internationally including the Ambassadors of Peace International Togo Chapter, former Treasurer, Nigeria Community Togo, former Vice President, Nigeria Community Togo, former Chairman Anambra State Union, Lome Togo.
He was also the Assistant Coordinator, Rebuild Nigeria Initiative, Togo Chapter. Ezedinobi was equally Former Member Ex-officio, Rebuild Nigeria Initiative H/Q, Abuja. Former Grand Patron, old Aguata Union, Lome Togo.
Late Chief Innocent Anulunkor (Ezedinobi) was a rare gem in the eyes of many and a foundation for many successes. In his not-so-short life, he affected a lot of people in several ways and the result of his impact will last for a very long time as many continue to testify to what they have benefited from Ezedinobi.
He was an astute and successful businessman; he built an Aluminum Company in Lome, Togo, which was formerly known as CEGO Aluminum but now GRACE Aluminum. Until his death Chief Ezedinobi was the MD/CEO of GRACE Aluminum Company in Togo.
His younger brother, Ugochukwu Anulunkor (Ugobest), who is still in shock, described late Ogbuehi Ezedinobi as a true husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to many and who touched many lives positively through his philanthropic gestures.
He stated, “Before death plucked you from our midst, though we are saddened by losing you, we take solace in the words of God which says: “I am the resurrection and the life, the one who believes in me will live even if he dies” John 11:25. And we believe that you are living and resting at the bosom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen”.
Ogbuehi Chimereze has passed on but his memory will remain evergreen in the minds of many for a long time.
Late High Chief Innocent Chukwuma Anulunkor was a recipient of several awards both in Nigeria and Republic of Togo. He was given one of the highest awards by the then President of Togo, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbe Eyadema, for his outstanding contributions to humanity.
The late Innocent Chukwuma Anulunkor passed on after a protracted illness and will be buried on 10th January, 2024, in his country home in Ibughubu village, Umuchu town, Aguata LGA, Anambra State. He was married with children.
Adieu Ezedinobi!