FATHER OF COSON'S GM, PA JOSIAH ONYEOGARIDINMA CHUKWUJI LAID TO REST AMIDST TEARS

Nigeria’s eastern state of Imo came alive as dignitaries from all works of life converged at Oka Autonomous Community in Isiala – Mbano L.G.A, Imo State for the final burial arrangements and celebration of life of Late Pa Josiah Onyeogaridinma Chukwuji, father of COSON’s General Manager, Mr. Chinedu Angus Chukwuji.

The burial arrangements began with a Service of Songs at his residence on Thursday, October 20, 2016 and continued on Friday, October 21, 2016 with a well attended Funeral Service at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Oka, Isiala Mbano L. G. A.

This was followed by his internment at his residence, Chukwuji Compound, Ndi – Owerre, Oka, Isiala Mbano.

Among the dignitaries present were Chairman, Copyright Society of Nigeria, Chief Tony Okoroji; General Manager, AVRS, Mr. Victor Nwokocha; National President, MUPMAN, Engr. Sharon Essco Wilson; COSON Directors, Hon. And Mrs. John Udegbunam, Mrs Azeezat Allen; COSON staffs, amongst many others.

An outing service was also held to celebrate the life and times of Late Pa Josiah Chukwuji at the St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Isiala Mbano L.G.A on Sunday, October 23, 2016.

Late Pa Josiah Onyeogaridinma Chukwuji was born to the family of Chukwuji and Martha Okparaegede of Oka Autonomous Community in the present day Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.

He started his primary education at Enitonia Primary School, Ibeme, Mbano, Okigwe, Imo State and later went to Ibeme Community School, Mbano, Okigwe, Imo State where he later completed his Standard Six.

In search of better opportunities, he left the village on April 15, 1957 for Lagos. On arrival, he lived with his older brother, Late Pa Johnson Chukwuji. After seven months of searching for a job, was employed by a Building and Civil Engineering Contractor; Cappa & D’Albeto, one of Nigeria’s oldest organisations in the Nigerian Construction Industry today.

In 1960, when the Federal Palace Hotel opened its gate to the public, Pa Chukwuji joined the national hotel as a pioneer staff.

While in employment of Federal Palace Hotel, he decided to settle down with his heartthrob, Janet Ukachi Oguike in February 1966. Their marriage was blessed with children and they lived together for fifty years.

Pa Josiah’s relationship with Federal Palace Hotel was however abruptly interrupted as a result of the Nigerian civil war of between 1967 – 1970.

After the civil war, Pa Chukwuji instead of returning to the service of Federal Palace Hotel decided to join the Federal Ministry of Works & Housing where he rose to a senior position before he retired.

Pa Josiah Chukwuji is survived by his wife of five decades, three gentlemen and a beautiful woman who are all doing well in their chosen fields. He is also survived by many grandchildren.

May the soul of Pa Josiah Onyeogaridinma Chukwuji continue to rest in peace. Amen.