Renowned Abia Legal Icon, Sir Barr. Anthony Nwazue Okezie, Passes On At 84

The legal and Christian community in Abia State has been thrown into mourning following the death of Sir Barrister Anthony Nwazue Okezie, a revered legal luminary, community leader, and devout Christian, who passed away on June 11, 2025 at the age of 84.

The announcement of his passing was made public by his son, Barr. Nwazue Kanu Okezie, in an official family statement dated August 2nd, 2025.

Born on March 12, 1941, into the family of Pa Jeremiah Kanu Okezie and Madam Rosannah Kanu Okezie of Mgboko Isiama Afaraukwu Ibeku respectively, late Sir Okezie lived an accomplished life dedicated to education, legal excellence, public service, and the Christian faith.

He was married to Lady Helen Chinkata Okezie, and their union was blessed with six children.

A PIONEER IN LAW

Sir Okezie made history as the first lawyer from Afaraukwu Ibeku, Umuahia. His journey in education began at Ibeku Central School before proceeding to the Teachers Training College in Umuobiakla. He later studied law at the University of Lagos, Akoka, gaining admission in 1977, and was subsequently called to the Nigerian Bar in July 1983.

He began his legal practice at the chambers of the late Barr. G.C.E. Imo before founding his own law firm, Emeaba Chambers, situated at No. 1 Oba Street, Umuahia. A respected member of the Bar, he also served as Financial Secretary of the Umuahia Bar Association in 1992.

LEGACY OF SERVICE

Before his legal career, Sir Okezie worked as a teacher at Ubakala Primary School and later as a court clerk in the Eastern Region prior to the Nigerian Civil War. He also served with the Ministry of Finance in Owerri as an Account Clerk before gaining admission to study law.

His commitment to public service earned him appointments to several critical roles:

Member, Abia State Local Government Election Appeal Tribunal (1997)

Chairman, Abia State Ezeship and Autonomous Communities Disputes Panel (1999), appointed by the Executive Governor of Abia State

FAITHFUL CHRISTIAN AND COMMUNITY LEADER

A devout member of the Anglican Church of Nigeria, Sir Okezie was a Knight of Saint Christopher (KSC). His Christian faith was the bedrock of his values, leadership, and service to humanity.

The family has described him as a man of integrity, discipline, and deep faith whose life impacted many within and beyond his immediate community.

Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.

May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.