Bishop Chukwunweike Urges Christians To Live For Good Deeds

The Anglican Bishop of the Diocese of Awgu/Aninri, Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Dr. Benson N. Chukwunweike (JP) reminded Christians that every individual will eventually die and will be remembered for their good deeds on earth.

During the funeral sermon, Bishop Chukwunweike urged the congregation not to take life for granted, emphasizing that life itself is sustained only by God’s mercy. He noted that no one has control over the length of their life, but everyone can control how they live.

Quoting Numbers 23:10, he read, “Who can count the dust of Jacob, and the number of the fourth part of Israel? Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his!” He explained that the scripture instructs believers to focus on living righteously so that their end will be pleasing to God.

He also referenced Ecclesiastes 7:8, stating, “Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.” According to him, this verse reminds Christians that how one finishes life is more crucial than how they start it.

Bishop Chukwunweike further cited Hebrews 9:27: “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” He stressed that death is inevitable, and judgment follows immediately thereafter, making it essential for everyone to live a life acceptable to God.

He warned against seeking blessings outside God’s will, noting that any blessing not from God could lead a person astray. Using the story of Jacob, he explained that Jacob became more blessed only after he stopped acting independently of God and submitted to divine timing.

He cautioned that one careless action could ruin a person’s life and reputation forever. “Consider Judas Iscariot, whose name means praise; he is remembered negatively because he betrayed Jesus Christ.”

“When you lie down where the late Mrs. Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe rests today, what will heaven say about you?” the bishop asked, urging everyone to live righteously every day.

The life and times of Lady Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe were marked by fulfillment and accomplishment. Like a warrior, she came, she saw, and she conquered.

Born in the year 1935 to the polygamous family of the late Chimengwu of Isu-Awaa community in the present Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State, she was married to the late Chief Benson Maduabuchukwu Ibe (Chinenyeze 1 of Isi-Awaa) from Umunevo n’Umuevee of Enugu Isu-Awaa Agwu in Enugu State.

Through hard work and unwavering faith in God, Lady Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu rose from humble beginnings to achieve greatness.

She passed on to glory at the age of 90 (1935–2025), and her death was described as a glorious transition to eternity based on her Christian virtues and service to humanity.

Her life was remarkable, and the legacies she left behind are inspiring.

Therefore, it was not surprising that the funeral ceremonies, held from December 18th to 21st, 2025, were labeled “BLACK INDIGO GOES HOME.”

The ‘Black Indigo’ left unparalleled footprints in the sands of time in the history of the Isu-Awaa community, Enugu State, Nigeria, Africa, and beyond. She was a unique mother and a prime example of motherhood, facing significant challenges while raising and training her children.

She did not allow her background to weigh her down. Amidst adversity, she remained kind and generous to all who crossed her path.

Thus, it was no surprise that God Almighty, in His infinite mercy, blessed her children abundantly, as seen in Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe and his siblings, all of whom are billionaires.

Her funeral ceremonies created a celebration that will remain indelible in the history of the Isu-Awaa community and for generations to come.

The religious, social, and cultural aspects of her funerals were executed flawlessly, thanks to God’s grace. Funding was not a problem, as the Ibe royal family allocated substantial resources to commemorate their beloved mother, who was evidently the source of their success and prosperity in life.

An empowerment program to initiate her final funeral rites was held at the Ibe Family’s event venue in the Isu-Awaa community. In the spirit of giving and caring for humanity—a value instilled in them by Lady Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe—they distributed bags of rice, gallons of vegetable oil, and sachets of Maggi cubes to 50 of the poorest families across the 21 communities in Awgu Local Government Area. In total, 1,050 bags of rice, vegetable oil, and Maggi cubes were shared among the most vulnerable families in each community.

To avoid a stampede at the venue, the Coordinators of the Save Awgu Forum Enugu (SAFE), a socio-cultural organization promoting unity and peace in Awgu, were instructed to distribute their community shares at their respective village squares.

The event was memorable, as Chris Baywood Ibe and his companions provided hope to families in Awgu through this outreach.

For the women and families present, it was more than just food; it served as a tangible reminder that kindness and care still exist. Some balanced heavy rice bags on their heads while guiding their children; others whispered quiet prayers of gratitude. The atmosphere was lively and filled with laughter, with the occasional cheers of “Emperor!”

One beneficiary, Mrs. Madueke Geraldine, reflected on the late Lady Ezinne Eunice Ibe, saying, “She was a woman of giving. She would always check on us: ‘Sister, have you eaten?’ ‘Aunty, have you eaten?’ Seeing her son continue her legacy today makes it feel like her spirit is still with us.”

Volunteers and community coordinators worked swiftly, ensuring that the 50 selected families received their supplies smoothly. Over 42 vehicles were employed to transport the goods, highlighting the community effort behind the outreach.

Ibe emphasized that the program was not about personal recognition. “No name is attached to this program,” he stated. “This is about the community, not me.”

The day was filled with quiet joy and relief. Children ran around in excitement, women exchanged smiles, and laughter filled the air. For many, this outreach was not just a festive gesture; it offered a chance to celebrate Christmas without hunger, reminding them that generosity can profoundly impact lives.

Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe indicated that the distribution was part of the legacy of giving they inherited from their mother, likening her to Mother Teresa.

He noted that the reason for sharing with the very poor stemmed from the understanding that not everyone in the rural areas would have the privilege of participating in the larger event planned for Friday, December 19th.

Beneficiaries interviewed by reporters expressed gratitude to the Ibe family for their generosity, describing the late Lady Ezinne Eunice Ibe as kind-hearted and generous to all who came her way.

Ifeanyi Okonta, a beneficiary from Mgbidi Awgu, said the support arrived at a critical moment for many families grappling with rising living costs. He described the palliatives as lifelines that enabled families to celebrate Christmas modestly but with dignity.

“This means the world to those who otherwise would have had nothing for Christmas,” he commented. “It shows that Emperor Baywood Ibe truly cares about the poor and understands the struggles of ordinary people.”

Another beneficiary, Christiana Onwualia, expressed her joy and gratitude, describing the outreach’s remembrance of the downtrodden as a rare and kind act that restored hope.

“This gesture goes beyond mere food,” she stated. “It reminds us that we are not forgotten. I pray that God opens greater doors for him and rewards him abundantly for this kindness.”

Leticia Ike, who also received support from the distribution, shared that the initiative brought happiness and relief to many households during the festive season.

“He has made Christmas memorable for us,” she remarked. “May God continue to bless him for remembering people at such a special time.”

The outreach garnered commendation from notable observers. Mr. Lukas Udeagbara, former Executive Assistant to the Enugu State Governor, praised Emperor Ibe for extending love and support to the needy, describing the gesture as a reflection of a compassionate heart dedicated to uplifting others.

“This is a clear example of leadership through service,” he asserted, praying that God would replenish Emperor Ibe’s resources and reward him richly for his generosity.

Observers note that this distribution of palliatives underscores the growing importance of individual and private-sector efforts to address social challenges, particularly during festive periods when many families struggle to meet their basic needs. Such acts foster community bonds and promote a culture of empathy, sharing, and mutual support.

The usually serene and quiet community of Isu-Awaa came alive on Friday, December 19th, as various dignitaries and friends of the Ibe family from across Nigeria and beyond gathered to join the family in a church service to commemorate their late mother.

In their respective speeches, clerics praised the late Lady Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe as a virtuous woman who dedicated her life and family to God. Rev. Dr. Amos Madu recognised her contributions as a devoted chorister in her youth and noted her steadfast service in God’s vineyard throughout her lifetime.

In his vote of thanks on behalf of the Ibe family during the church service, Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe promised that the family would continue to honor their late mother’s legacy by supporting church projects. He invited the church to submit requests since the family hadn’t brought any material for Thanksgiving. The church requested a two-storey guesthouse.

This immediate request for a guest hall at the cathedral was graciously accepted by Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe, and on behalf of the entire Ibe family of Isu-Awaa, he pledged that the foundation for a befitting cathedral guesthouse would be laid in the first quarter of 2026, prompting applause and jubilation from the congregation.

Following the service at St. Mark’s Cathedral, the remains of the late Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe were interred at her late husband’s residence in Isu-Awaa.

A lavish reception followed for friends, special guests, and other dignitaries, including locals who identified with the Ibe family during the final funeral rites of their late mother, Lady Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe.

Among the notable attendees at the service were Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti, former House of Representatives member Hon. Toby Okechukwu, Hon. Chijioke Edeoga (the 2023 Labour Party gubernatorial candidate in Enugu State), and Hon. Ikeje Asogwa, a former chairman of the PDP in Enugu State, among many others.

Former Aviation Minister Chief Osita Chidoka, Barr. Olisa Metuh and Hon. Martins Chukwunweike, the immediate past commissioner for health in Enugu State, were also present at the grand celebration.

Others included Princess Peace Nnaji, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, Barr. Eugene Eneh, Gabriel Oladekpo, Sir Chidi Nwokeabia, Prince Austin Nwankwo (the insurance guru), Dr. Raph Ezeoma, Dr. Mrs. Nkoli Anibogu, Dr. Emeka Onah, Yakubu Yikassa, Prof. Victor Nnam, High Chief Enahoro, and many others from various parts of the country.

Notably, the Nigerian Ambassador to Malawi, Ambassador Ben Shida, and Ambassador Sam Umara from Uganda were also in attendance at the reception.

Emperor Baywood Ibe expressed his gratitude to everyone for joining the Ibe family in their commemorative activities honoring their late mother.

He lauded his wife, Empress Pat Baywood Ibe from Obosi, as the secret behind the success of the entire funeral arrangements. He also commended her for the immense love and care she provided to his late mother, Lady Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe, while she was alive. He humorously remarked that he is motivated to visit his in-laws in Obosi and pay her dowry again, should they permit him, due to her exceptional care for their family.

He expressed appreciation for the unity within the family and encouraged others to come and learn from them. He emphasized that no external force could undermine the strong foundation of the Ibe family. He also thanked his sisters for their solidarity in fostering family unity, peace, and love.

An outdoor church service to conclude the four-day funeral of the late Lady Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe was held at St. Mark’s Anglican Cathedral, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Isu-Awaa, on Sunday, December 21st.

Governor Peter Mba of Enugu State, Dr. Alex Otti of Abia State, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Right Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, former Governor of Enugu State, Chief Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, and various senators, including Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Senator Osita Izunaso, Senator Osita Ngwu (Senate Minority Whip), and Senator Okey Eze, alongside several dignitaries, expressed their condolences to His Majesty Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe and his family for the loss of their matriarch.

The reception featured several caterers, including Ike Osiriora Continental Dishes, Precious Kitchen Onitsha, and The Lagos Kitchen (Yetunde Caterers). Event planning was executed by the Lifestyle and Events team, led by international event planner Kofosorade Macaulay, who expressed her gratitude to the family for their ongoing support and noted that she had also planned their late father’s burial ten years prior.

Known affectionately as the “Black Rose of Aninri,” Lady Ezinne Eunice’s funeral unfolded like a carefully orchestrated script—solemn, dignified, emotional, yet deeply celebratory. It was not simply about death; it celebrated meaning.

The journey began at the Ibe family home in Enugu-Isu Village, Isu-Awaa, Awgu, Enugu State. Awaiting was a horse-drawn carriage ambulance, which immediately set a profound tone for the occasion. As the casket was gently placed inside, murmurs rippled through the crowd. It was not extravagance that stirred the emotions but rather the symbolism of the moment. The slow-moving carriage traversed the familiar roads that Lady Eunice had walked, roads imbued with her kindness and presence.

People lined the streets, some standing in silence, others bowing their heads, and a few quietly wiping away tears. Friends and sympathizers followed on foot, turning the procession into more than a funeral march; it became a collective act of gratitude from a community affirming, “We saw you, we remember you, and we honor you.”

After the church service, the same reverent mood accompanied the body back to the family compound for interment. There was no rush; every movement was deliberate, as though time itself had slowed to allow everyone to grasp the moment’s weight.

Inside the Cathedral Church of St. Mark, Isu-Awaa, history and humanity converged once again. The Anglican cathedral, familiar with years of worship and farewells, bore witness in its own way. The pews were filled, the aisles crowded, and the atmosphere heavy with emotion. Amid the sorrow of loss was also a profound sense of gratitude for a life that had been lived well.

After the burial, sorrow gradually transformed into celebration. At the Ibe family residence, guests were warmly welcomed, laughter mingled with memories, and stories of Lady Eunice flowed freely.

From the praise worship and all-night wake to the funeral service proper, as well as royal visitations, cultural displays, and the ten-year remembrance service for their patriarch, the late Chief Benson Maduabuchukwu Ibe (Chinenyeze), the entire series of events was replete with grace and splendor.

Indeed, the late Lady Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe, the Black Indigo Apunanwu, lives on.