Family members, in laws, friends and well wishers have gathered in Ihiala, Anambra State, to bid a final farewell to Late Mr. Augustine Chinweike Chijioke, popularly known as Mmadukaejiaka.

The 73 year old, who hailed from Umunwajiobi Dimogo Village in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, was remembered as a peaceful, kind hearted and loving man who devoted himself to his family and maintained cordial relationships with those around him.

The funeral rites began on Thursday, September 17, 2026, with a Wake Keep at the deceased’s family compound in Umunwajiobi Dimogo Village, where relatives, friends and sympathisers gathered to mourn and celebrate his life.

On Friday, September 18, 2026, the funeral proceedings continued with the lying in state of the deceased before his remains were taken to the Cathedral Church of St. Silas, Ihiala, for the funeral service.

The service brought together family members, friends and well wishers who joined in prayers and paid their final respects before the deceased was laid to rest at his family compound.

A reception was later held at Udengwu Primary School Field, opposite the Cathedral Church of St. Silas, where mourners gathered to offer condolences and stand in solidarity with the bereaved family.

Speaking with UGAMATV after the burial, the first child and first daughter of the deceased, Mrs. Chijioke, described her father as a good, God fearing and peaceful man who was always willing to assist others.

She said his death was deeply painful and that she would greatly miss him, while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul and the safe return of those who travelled to attend the burial.

Also speaking, the second to the last daughter of the deceased, Mrs. Ede Amara Nkechi, described her father as a loving and peaceful man who consistently put the comfort and wellbeing of his children ahead of his own needs.

She expressed the emotional pain caused by his passing, saying that given another opportunity, she would still choose him as her father.

For Sir Edeh David Bright, Nwanne Di Namba 1 of Nkanu and son in law of the deceased, Late Augustine Chijioke was more than a father in law.

He described him as a peaceful, loving and kind man who treated him as his own son and served as a father figure throughout his years of marriage into the family.

Sir Edeh also appreciated family members, friends and well wishers who travelled from far and near to honour the deceased and support the family through the funeral rites.

As condolences continued to pour in, family members, in laws, friends and well wishers shared memories of the deceased, describing his life as one marked by love, peace, kindness and devotion to his family.

The gathering also provided an opportunity for loved ones to celebrate his legacy and offer emotional support to the bereaved family as they come to terms with the loss of their patriarch.

Late Mr. Augustine Chinweike Chijioke is survived by his family, who will continue to cherish the memories of a man whose life touched many and whose values remain a lasting part of his family’s story.