Encomiums As Sir Kenneth Arimanwa Goes Home

The remains of Sir Kenneth Ukachukwu Arimanwa has been committed to Mother Earth amid encomiums from family, friends and relatives, who described him as an intelligent gentleman, peace lover and consummate community leader, who loved the things of God.

In a tribute signed by his first son, Engr. Dr. Michael Arimanwa, who is also the Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, the deceased was described as “disciplined, focused, reliable, fearless, loyal and extremely selfless.” He was also characterized as a man who lived a “purposeful, healthy and fulfilled life,” having mentored many.

Besides the tributes from family members, there were countless other testimonies of people who described the gallant knight as a man endowed with exceptional wisdom and humanity, attributes which created lasting impressions on the minds of people with whom he came in contact. Sir Arimanwa who died at the ripe age of 90 was buried in his compound at his Umuneke Obazu Mbieri.

In a commendation service earlier at the Cathedral Church of the Transfiguration of our Lord (CATOL), Rev’d Bethel Ohagwam enjoined Christians to live a life of righteousness as there was a reward for every person according to the life they lived. He reminded believers of the words of Christ in Revelations 22: 12-14 where His second coming was made imminent, urging Christians to amend their ways.

In a well-attended funeral service later at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church Obazu, Christians were admonished to keep watch and be mindful of their speech, thought and habit. In a homily entitled “Keep Watch,” Ven Onyinyeoma Onyeagocha reminded Christians that the times are evil, a reason they need to keep watch on what they do, adding that they would be held accountable for their actions, as it is written in the gospel of Matthew, chapter 12.

The cleric further enjoined believers to guard their hearts against evil thoughts and intents, warning children of God to be resolute in changing their bad habits.

Three bishops and numerous archdeacons and priests officiated the service. The prelates were the Rt Rev’d Chukwuma Chinekezi Opara of the Anglican Diocese of Owerri, Rt Rev’d Chidi Oparaojiaku of Ohaji/Egbema Diocese and the Rt. Rev’d Geoffrey Okoroafor of Egbu Diocese.

The funeral service was graced by several dignitaries including the Governor of Imo State, represented by Barr. Kezie Ogaziechi, Commissioner for Power and Rural Electrification and other officials of the state. The Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, by Mrs Winifred Amadim.

Present also were the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Sen Ifeanyi Araraume, Ugwumba Uche Nwosu, Chief Jude Ejiogu, Prof Vitalis Orikeze, Prof and Prof (Mrs) Jude Njoku, Rectors of Federal Polytechnic Oko and Ekowei and their Principal Officers, among other dignitaries.

Also present were the Acting Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic Nekede and his wife, Sqd. Ldr. & Mrs Chima Idika Chima (Rtd), and other council members.

There were the Principal Officers of the polytechnic including the Deputy Rector (Academic) C.C. Onyemenonu, Deputy Rector (Administration) Dr. Uzoma Ibeaja, Registrar, Mrs. E.C. Anuna, Bursar, Mr. V.N. Anyanwuocha, Deans, Directors and Heads of Departments, among a host of others including traditional and community leaders.

In a vote of thanks, the Rector and first son of the family, Engr. Dr. Michael Arimanwa, appreciated dignitaries that found time to come for the burial, wishing them journey mercies back to their destinations.

Three choirs including the host church, Anglican Church of the Holy Spirit in Control and Praise God Anglican Chaplaincy (Federal Polytechnic Nekede), participated in the funeral service.

6 May, 2023