The passing of Prof. Joe Irukwu, the former president general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and a renowned insurance guru, has led to an outpouring of condolences and tributes from various individuals and organizations. Among those expressing grief are Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti, former Abia State Governor Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, and Irukwu’s kinsmen in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.
In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Dr. Chiedozie Ogbonnia, the organization described Prof. Irukwu as a moral edifice, erudite scholar, and accomplished legal luminary. They praised his contributions to the Igbo socio-cultural organization during his tenure as president general, highlighting his intellectual masterpiece “Nation Building and Ethnic Organisation: A Case Study of Ohanaeze in Nigeria.”
Governor Alex Otti acknowledged Prof. Irukwu’s significant achievements in the insurance sector, including his role as the pioneer managing director of Nigeria Reinsurance Corporation and founder of African Development Insurance Company. He expressed gratitude for the late leader’s contributions and emphasized the importance of upholding his legacies.
Former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu referred to Prof. Irukwu as an authentic academic giant and a proud son of Abia State. He praised his commitment to the field of law and insurance, as well as his leadership as the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
Various individuals from Irukwu’s community, including Joe Ogbonnaya Irukwu, Chief Maduabuchi Ogbonnaya, Dr. Nduka Anyaso, Chief Ihendu Ojukwu, Chief Ebere Ali, and Rev Egbita Sunday Chukwu, expressed their deep condolences and described the immense impact Prof. Irukwu had on their lives and communities.
The passing of Prof. Joe Irukwu is seen as a significant loss, not only to his community and Abia State but also to the Igbo nation, the insurance industry, academia, and humanity as a whole. His remarkable achievements, wisdom, humility, and contributions will be forever remembered by those whose lives he touched.