A solemn air of grief and reverence enveloped the quiet Community of Amegu Umuitodo in Obollo Etiti Ward, Udenu Local Government Area, as thousands of mourners gathered to pay their final respects to Late Caius Onyekachi Nwodo, fondly known as Smeok’, who was laid to rest amidst an outpouring of emotions, tributes, and celebration of a life well lived.
Late Nwodo passed away on Easter Tuesday, April 22, 2025, after a brief illness. His funeral rites, held today, attracted a mammoth crowd of sympathizers from across Udenu and beyond, including political leaders, traditional rulers, community members, and friends from all walks of life who came to honour the memory of a man described as “humble and committed,”
SLG, Aroh making presentation on behalf of Aka Eze Aka
The Executive Chairman of Udenu Local Government Council, Aka Eze Aka, joined in mourning the Late public servant, sending a high-powered delegation to represent him at the burial ceremony. The delegation was led by the Secretary to the Local Government (SLG), Mr. Chika Aroh, and comprised top aides and stakeholders of the Local Council, including the SPA to the Chairman on Political Matters, Hon. Maduka Abonyi, and the PDP Chairman in Udenu, Hon. Meletus Onah.
Delegation from the Local Government Council
Speaking on behalf of the Chairman, Mr. Aroh described Late Nwodo as “a grassroots mobilizer, a committed party loyalist, and a man whose service to the people of Udenu will not be forgotten.”
Among the notable dignitaries present at the funeral was the immediate past Chairman of Udenu LGA and current member representing Udenu Constituency at the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Solomon Izuchukwu Onah (popularly known as Jack Solo). Hon. Onah extolled the virtues of the deceased, stating that “Smeok’ was not just an ally but a true friend of the people, whose energy and zeal will be sorely missed.”
Also in attendance was former Udenu Local Government Chairman, Hon. Innocent Ezeh.
Until his death, Late Caius was a dedicated member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and served as the Local Government Coordinator of the Special Public Works (SPW) program of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) under the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity. In this capacity, he played a key role in implementing community-based public work initiatives aimed at reducing youth unemployment and fostering rural development in Udenu.
The wife and son of the deceased
Smeok’ is survived by his wife and child, along with numerous extended family members, relatives, and associates who gathered to bid him farewell.
May his soul rest in peace.
