Late Pa Patrick Okolie Fejokwu, JP, the father of General Lawrence Fejokwu, Chief of Administration, Nigerian Army, was laid to rest in grand style at his country home in Onicha-Ugbo, Aniocha North Local Government Area, Delta State, on Friday, October 10, 2025.
The funeral ceremony which took place at All Saints Catholic Church, Onicha-Ugbo, and was officiated by Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Ifeanyichukwu Obiategwu, Auxiliary Bishop of Orlu Diocese, alongside other Catholic Priests.
Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, who was represented at the funeral mass by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Asaba, Hon. Prince Johnson Erijo, joined General Lawrence Fejokwu and the family at the reception in honour of their departed patriarch, at Osemeke Primary School field, Onicha-Ugbo,
In his tribute, Maj. Gen. Fejokwu described his father as a peaceful man who guided him with wisdom, nurtured him to adulthood with kindness, and protected him with strength.
“You taught me values that will remain with me forever – discipline, humility, compassion, and faith. Every step I take in life carries the imprint of your guidance. Though your absence leaves a void in my heart, your love continues to live within me, sharpening the person I have become. You were my role model, my teacher, and my greatest supporter. Losing you is painful, but I take comfort in knowing that your legacy lives on through the lives you touched.
“I will forever be grateful for the gift of your life and the fatherly love you gave me selflessly. Lord, I ask that you grant him eternal rest and peace in your presence. May his good works follow him, and may the legacy he left in our hearts continue to bear fruit. Bless his memory within us, and help us to live by the values he instilled in us,” Maj. Gen. Fejokwu prayed.
Maj. Gen. Fejokwu also expressed gratitude to the Governor, members of his cabinet, his colleagues in the Army, as well as friends and well wishers, for finding time to join him and the family at the burial ceremony.
In a chat with journalists, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu condoled Maj. Gen. Fejokwu and the entire family, praying for the sweet repose of their father.
“From what I know about late Pa Patrick Okolie Fejokwu, he was a good man and a God-fearing man, a man of humility who dedicated his life to God and humanity. He will be remembered for his care and compassion, a disciplinarian of no mean repute with a heart of love and peace. I appreciate him immensely for the values of faith, humility, and love that he instilled in his children, particularly my brother, Maj. Gen. Lawrence Fejokwu,” Elumelu said, urging the children to find solace in their father’s worthy life and legacy.
The Executive Chairman of Aniocha North Local Government, Hon. Emmanuel Bazim Chinye, also paid tribute to the deceased, describing him as a renowned teacher, administrator, and disciplinarian who left an indelible mark on the lives of many.
“Pa Patrick Okolie Fejokwu’s life was an attestation of his exceptional dedication to his family, community, and profession. His commitment to education and community development inspired countless individuals, and his legacy will continue to shape the lives of those who knew him.
“We express our profound gratitude to God for the gift of a life well spent in the service of others. As you, Major General Lawrence Fejokwu, and the entire Fejokwu family mourn the loss of your beloved patriarch, we pray that the Lord God Almighty consoles you during this difficult time.
“May your family’s memories of your beloved Father, Pa Patrick Okolie Fejokwu remain a source of strength and inspiration to you all in the days ahead and may his soul and the souls of the faithful departed, through the infinite mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”
The ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, immediate past Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Engr. Victor Ochei, Executive Chairman of Aniocha North Local Government, Hon. Emmanuel Bazim Chinye, Dr. Gabriel Ugbechie, Chief Dumebi Kachikwu and his Mother, Chief Barrister Ada Josephine Kachikwu were also amongst the special guests.
Also in attendance was an impressive assemblage of over thirty serving and retired Generals of the Nigerian Army. They included Maj. Gen. Opuene, Maj. Gen. Awolo, Maj. Gen. Mabeakwu, Maj. Gen. Anarya, Corp Command ST, Maj. Gen. Yusuf, Maj. Gen. Ogheleka, Maj. Gen. Raymond Ochei, Mrs. Fatima Myam, Maj. Gen. Salami (rtd), Maj. Gen. A.B. Ibrahim COPP, Maj. Gen. O.J. Akpor, Maj. Gen. Sarham (retired), Maj. Gen. Salami (retired), Maj. Gen. Oguntola, Maj. Gen. Akerejola, Cdre. Onukwuru, and Maj. Gen. O.D. Williams.
Brig. Gen. Laguda, Brig. Gen. Chima, Brig. Gen. Nwoke, Brig. Gen. U.J. Mackbere, and Lt. Col. Egbor, among others, also graced the solemn occasion in celebration of a fulfilled life well lived in harmonious co-existence with all those who came in contact with him.
Leader of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Engr Emeka Nwaobi, PhD and some members of the State House of Assembly as well as some members of the State Executive Council were also at the event.
Also in attendance were members of the Class of ’84 of St. Pius Xth School, Onicha-Ugbo, led by their National President, Dr. Maxwell Chiemeka.
The Musical Band of the 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Asaba, regaled guests with classical music during the event where guests were treated to a rousing reception.
