Two former African Presidents — Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma of Sierra Leone and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria — joined other dignitaries in Imo State, Nigeria, to honour a 105-year-old matriarch, the late Ezinne Monica Nwafor Amuchie-Akagburuonye.
The funeral and burial ceremonies were held from November 2 to 8, 2026, at Ogbor Uvuru, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, drawing traditional leaders, political figures, family members and well-wishers.
Mama Nwafor was celebrated as a woman of faith. A committed Christian, she was one of the early converts to the Assemblies of God Church in Mbaise in 1938. She died leaving behind more than *55 grandchildren.
She was the mother of renowned Nigerian philanthropist and APC chieftain, Chief Success Akagburuonye, widely known as Akaraugo 1 of Igboland.
Chief Akagburuonye gave his mother a befitting farewell that reflected Igbo cultural pride and filial devotion.
The procession featured horse-led golden carriages and a rotating golden casket, colourful traditional attire and elaborate arrangements that turned the solemn burial into a grand celebration of life.
Beyond the display, Chief Akagburuonye immortalised his mother by building a memorial hospital in her name in Ogbor Uvuru, and a magnificent church for the Assemblies of God. He also built an estate of over six duplexes and a high-rise apartment complex for his extended family, with a final resting place for both parents.
Former President Koroma’s presence alongside former President Obasanjo underscored bonds of friendship, solidarity and mutual respect.
The ceremony was not just a funeral — it was a celebration of a 105-year-old life well lived, and a demonstration of the enduring value of family in Igbo society.
