The Umuode Ikenna Nsulu community is in mourning following the passing of their esteemed monarch, His Royal Highness, Eze Sir Ferguson Chimka Nwulu, who reigned for 28 years and died at the age of 92. His royal burial rites are scheduled for December 28–30, 2025, as announced by the Nwulu Royal Family.

A high-powered Burial Planning Committee has been inaugurated to oversee the ceremonies. The committee is co-chaired by Sir Chinedu Ugoezi Ugoala, former Chairman of Isiala Ngwa North LGA, and Chief Victor Arisa, Prime Minister of the community.

 

Sir Ugoala revealed that Eke market day before the burial will be reserved for cultural activities celebrating the king’s remarkable life. A 40-member central committee will manage ten specialized sub-committees to ensure the historic event is meticulously planned.

Eze Ferguson Nwulu was the first traditional ruler of the Umuode Ikenna autonomous community, established 25 years ago, and previously served as chief, following in the footsteps of his father, Chief Marcus Ajuzie Nwulu, a colonial-era Warrant Chief.

 

His reign saw significant development projects, including rural electrification and improvements to water supply, enhancing the community’s quality of life.

A lifelong scholar, Eze Nwulu attended St. Thomas School, Umuosu, St. George’s School, Nbawsi, and Idi Oro Road Primary School, Lagos, before completing further studies at Yaba Trade Centre Evening Class (1954–1958).

 

Professionally, he served as Assistant Storekeeper at G. Cappa Ltd, Apapa, Assistant Inspector of Works at Lagos Executive Development Board, and completed industrial training with Dane Group, London. Upon returning to Nigeria, he became Manager at S.P.A.N. Group, Port Harcourt, and in 1979 founded Fermit and Sons Associates (Nig) Ltd, a civil engineering firm that created jobs and mentored young professionals while contributing to regional infrastructure development.

Eze Nwulu is survived by his children: Mrs Francisca Nwulu-Ohanele, Mrs Joy Nwulu-Ijeoma, Mrs Blessing Nwulu Njoku, and Prince Chukwudubem Chimka Nwulu. His siblings include:

• Brothers: Mr Leonard Okechukwu Nwulu, Architect Emmanuel Nwulu, Mr Herbert Nwulu, Sir Dr Steve Nwulu, and Mr Victor Nwulu

• Sisters: Rev. Mother Assumpta Nwulu, Ugoeze Rebecca Ogonnaya Emelogu, Adanne Nwulu, Mrs Anayo Nwulu-Osuji, Evangelist Mercy Chinasa Nwulu

 

He will also be remembered fondly by his nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and a broad circle of relatives and admirers.

 

The announcement was jointly signed by Uchenna Awom and Chido Nwakanma, co-chairmen of the Burial Publicity Committee, as the community prepares to bid farewell to a monarch whose leadership, scholarship, and entrepreneurial spirit left an enduring legacy.