The people of Amaebu Ebenator and the wider Imo State community are mourning the passing of High Chief Christopher Onyimachukwu Ejemba, a revered traditional leader, devout Christian, mentor, and community builder whose life of service spanned nearly nine decades.

 

Born in April 1935 in Umuezikihe village of Amaebu Ebenator, Orsu Local Government Area, High Chief Ejemba was the son of the late Mr. Okonkwo and Udumeje Ejemba. From his early years, he distinguished himself through discipline, vision, and an uncommon commitment to excellence—qualities that would later define his enduring legacy as one of the most respected figures in his community.

 

High Chief Ejemba received his early education in Amaebu, where his brilliance and dedication to learning earned him outstanding results in his Standard Six examinations. Although he was immediately offered a teaching position—a prestigious role at the time—he declined, choosing instead to pursue business ventures that reflected his entrepreneurial foresight. That decision marked the beginning of a successful business career and laid the foundation for his later influence as a mentor and employer of many young people.

 

In the 1960s, he married his beloved wife, Lady Agnes Olachukwu Ejemba (née Ihemegbulem Okorie). Their marriage, widely admired for its stability and mutual respect, was blessed with ten children—six sons and four daughters. A devoted husband and exemplary father, High Chief Ejemba ensured that all his children received sound upbringing, education, and moral guidance, a legacy now reflected in his successful children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

 

A man of deep faith, High Chief Ejemba was an unwavering pillar of the Catholic Church. His service included roles as Church Warden, Parish Station Chairman, Pioneer Council Chairman of All Saints Catholic Church, Amaebu Ebenator, and active membership of the Catholic Workers Association and the Catholic Men Organization in both Orlu and Owerri dioceses. His exceptional dedication earned him the prestigious title of Knight of St. Mulumba, rising to the Fourth and Final Stage, with his wife honored as Lady of the Knight. He was further distinguished with the revered title of Nnaoma di Ebube of Orlu Diocese, a rare recognition of his outstanding commitment to the Church.

 

Beyond the church, High Chief Ejemba’s influence was deeply felt in traditional and civic life. He was conferred with the titles of High Chief and Ichie and served as a respected member of the Eze’s Cabinet, where his wisdom and balanced judgment guided community affairs. His leadership extended to the diaspora, where he founded the Ebenator Town Union, Owerri Branch, earning him the affectionate and enduring title of “City Father” for uniting and stabilizing Ebenator indigenes living in urban areas.

 

He also served as Patron of the Ebenator Social Club and the Commonwealth of Nigeria, and as the undisputed Leader of the Umuezikihe Clan, roles through which he promoted unity, philanthropy, and social cohesion.

 

Perhaps most remarkable was his passion for mentorship. High Chief Ejemba personally trained and supported many young men in business, equipping them with skills and opportunities to become self-reliant. His hands-on approach to empowerment transformed lives and strengthened the economic future of his community.

 

Tributes continue to pour in, describing him as humble, selfless, and deeply principled—a man whose wealth was measured not by possessions but by lives touched and institutions built.

 

High Chief (Sir) Ichie Nnaoma Christopher Onyimachukwu Ejemba leaves behind a towering legacy of faith, leadership, family devotion, and community service. Though he has answered the final call, his name remains etched in the history of Amaebu Ebenator and in the hearts of all who were privileged to know him.