Tribute to My Dad, TV Presenter, and Patriot, Late Chief Noble Ezenwata Godwin Ibe
Patriotism is not an abstract concept. It begins from one’s own home—as seen in the life of the late Chief Noble (Sir) Ezenwata Gordian Ibe (Enyi Oha, JP).
Ezenwata, as he was fondly called—Enyi Oha, as he was fondly identified—was born into the family of Mazi Nkemjika and Madam Onuogeri Ibeh eighty-two (82) years ago. He began his academic journey at St. Mary’s Primary School, Obodoukwu.
Before the Nigerian–Biafran War broke out, Ezenwata had already established an industry with a cosmetics production line. Despite the demands of his business, he still found time for love. In 1970, immediately after the civil war ended, he met and fell in love with his heartthrob, Lady Augusta Uzomba from Ozuakoli-Urulla. This union blossomed into a family blessed with seven surviving children and eighteen grandchildren.
Between 1985 and 1986, he obtained licenses from the Board of Customs and Excise for standard operating procedures on production and quality control.
He was a man of foresight and rugged tenacity of purpose—qualities that became the driving force behind Ezenwata International Company Limited, manufacturers of the Avalon brand range of products, including relaxers, creams, and soaps, to mention but a few. His passion for philanthropy inspired him to contribute immensely to the development of both his immediate and extended communities.
Chief (Sir) Ezenwata Gordian Ibe also saw the prospects in the commercialization of sport and the transformative effect it could have on youths in his beloved community. He donated trophies and sponsored the Ezenwata Ibeh Football Competition in Obodoukwu Clan. During this period, Obodoukwu became the centre of attraction in Imo State—especially every 9th of August, which marked the finals of this football competition.
This initiative brought together rural and urban youths, fostering love, peace, and unity among the Obodoukwu people. The Council of Chiefs, led by the late Paramount Ruler of Obodoukwu Clan, HRM Eze Sir Edmond Alisiobi Dim, Dim Agbakwuruibe (Obi of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom), conferred upon the veteran industrialist the chieftaincy title “ENYI OHA I OF OBODOUKWU” in 1995.
In recognition of his poverty alleviation programs and youth empowerment, the old Ideato Local Government Area named a 1.5km road stretching from Umuoka to Umunkwukwa-Umuune after this great enigma—Chief (Sir) Ezenwata Ibe Road. Enyi Oha was a man of immense moral character, courage, and integrity, who believed that the end of all education is moral character.
As we draw the curtain to say goodbye, we are proud to identify with his legacy, to be referred to as children of a great man, and to thank God Almighty for the remarkable life he lived.
Chief Noble Ezenwata Godwin Ibe burial announcement as announced by his son .
Ikechukwu G. Ezenwata (Omeziriinanya):
October 6th: A Vigil Mass was held at Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Aba.
October 14th: Another Vigil Mass took place at Knights of St. John International, Jubilee Temple, CKC Cathedral, Aba.
Wednesday, October 22nd: A Novelty Match will hold at Eke Obodokwu Market Field.
Thursday, October 23rd: Funeral Mass at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Umunkwukwa, Obodoukwu, Ideato North LGA, Imo State.
This will be followed immediately by interment at the family compound.
Ikechukwu G. Ezenwata (Omeziriinanya)
