Family describes late patriarch as a humble gentleman, peace advocate and committed kingdom developer
The family of late Mr David Onuwa Akwunwa has paid glowing tribute to their departed patriarch, describing him as a selfless community leader whose commitment to the peace, unity and development of Otolokpo Kingdom remained unwavering until his death.
In a statement signed by Friday Nkwere Akwunwa on behalf of the family, the bereaved relatives expressed profound appreciation to Otolokpo sons and daughters for their condolence messages, prayers and heartfelt tributes, saying the overwhelming show of solidarity had brought them comfort during their moment of grief.
The family described the deceased as a soft-spoken, humble and peace-loving gentleman, whose life was defined by kindness, wisdom, mentorship and service to humanity. A chartered accountant by profession, he was also remembered as a teacher, adviser, motivator and unifying figure.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, the family said his greatest passion was the development of Otolokpo Kingdom in Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State.
Despite retiring from active service more than 15 years ago, Akwunwa remained actively involved in community affairs. He served for several years as President of the Otolokpo Development Union (ODU), Asaba Branch, a position he held until his death. His commitment to the union’s activities was such that he rarely missed its conferences except on health grounds.
The family observed that his quiet disposition might have concealed the enormity of his contributions to the kingdom, noting that he was never one to seek publicity or recognition for his efforts.
The statement also disclosed his royal ancestry, revealing that his mother was a daughter of the late Obi Agboje and an elder sister to the late Obi Ezenweali, making him closely connected to Otolokpo’s traditional ruling house. Despite this heritage, he remained humble and never allowed his royal background to define his relationship with others.
As the eldest surviving son of the Akwunwa family, his passing represents a painful loss to his immediate family and the wider Otolokpo community.
While acknowledging the depth of their grief, the family expressed confidence that his legacy of patriotism, humility and community service would endure.
“When the story of great and patriotic men of Otolokpo is told, his name will not be forgotten. He has made his mark and left indelible footprints on the sands of time,” the family declared.
The family further assured the community that burial arrangements would be announced in due course, expressing the hope that the Otolokpo Development Union would participate in the final rites.
Concluding the tribute, the family described the late Akwunwa as a man who came, saw and conquered, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed.
Daddy was a very peaceful man, his calm disposition even in the midst of chaos, was his greatest strength. His love for education was profound and his commitment to family life was rock solid. I will miss you so much my dear Father, rest on Dad, Adieu Chief Auditor! till we meet to part no more!
Daddy may some times may look very serious, thanks to his Accounting/Auditor background, but he had that quiet smile that was welcoming and warm. Never one to be found where there was breakdown of law and order. He was always that bridge that unites rather than divides.
Rest well Sir.