Ika Weekly Newspaper
The Ute-Okpu Monarch, His Royal Majesty Obi Pastor Solomon Chukwuka, has described the passing of one of the community’s illustrious sons, Sir Dr Chamberlain Nnamdi Dunkwu, as a monumental loss, likening it to the fall of a mighty Iroko tree.
Speaking on Tuesday, March 17, during a condolence visit to the family of the deceased, the monarch expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen.
Obi Chukwuka, who was accompanied by elders (Iwuzamas) and palace chiefs, noted that Dunkwu’s demise has created a significant vacuum in the socio-political landscape, not only in Ute-Okpu Kingdom but across the entire Ika nation.
“I received with great shock the news of the passing of a great son of Ute-Okpu, Dr Dunkwu. I am yet to recover from the shock because it is indeed a monumental loss. His death has created a void in the socio-political space and has deprived the Ute-Okpu (Ika) people of a strong voice in national affairs,” the monarch said.
He highlighted the late Dunkwu’s modest lifestyle, wisdom, and courage, stressing that his contributions and advocacy could have attracted major developments, including the establishment of a Federal University in Ute-Okpu.
“In his passing, we have lost a great deal. His outspokenness and dedication were key assets that could have brought infrastructural development to our land. Who now will champion our cause, especially the proposed Federal University in Ute-Okpu?” he queried.
The monarch urged the people of Ute-Okpu to take solace in God, encouraging the bereaved family and the entire community to remain steadfast in faith.
“For my Ute-Okpu people, we have indeed lost a great son. Let us leave everything in the hands of God to fight our battles,” he added.
Dr Chamberlain Nnamdi Dunkwu, a key figure in Nigeria’s legislative administration, passed away on March 7, 2026, at the age of 54. Since June 2023, he served as Deputy Chief of Staff (Legislative) to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and was widely respected for his loyalty, dedication, and service.
Some of the elders (Iwuzamas) present during the condolence visit included Chief Azagba Gilbert (Acting Ovia), Ezinna Sir E.C. Iwezue (Ede of Alieduku), Nduka Emefiele (Okparan of Ogbe), and Chief Monye A.N (Ojunwa of Ute-Okpu).
By Patrick Gbuchanye
