25 years after chief John Ozegbe’s passage

Twenty-five years ago, we bade farewell to an icon, Chief John Egwuonwu Ozegbe.

Born on the 27th of December, 1946, to the family of Ogbuiji Akwanaka and Oteofe Ukpor Ozegbe at Owa Alidinma, his early life bore the marks of greatness. He was a shining light among his peers – brilliant in academics and outstanding in sports.

In pursuit of knowledge, he migrated to Lagos at a young age. He had his secondary education at the prestigious St. Gregory’s College, Ikoyi, and proceeded to the University of Lagos, where he studied Business Administration and graduated with flying colours. Driven by an unquenchable thirst for excellence, he earned a Master’s in Business Administration (Marketing) from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and was pursuing his Doctorate degree when the cold hands of death took him.

Chief Ozegbe’s career was one of diligent service. He began at Bentworth Finance, Lagos; Nigerian Bottling Company (Coca-Cola); SIO Industries, Asaba; and ultimately, Delta State University, where he served meritoriously as Head, Department of Business Administration and Marketing.

He was a patriot in the truest sense – deeply committed to the peace, progress and development of Utagba-Uno and the entire Ndokwa nation. He served his people selflessly in various capacities and gave generously to every worthy cause. His passing was a monumental loss to Ndokwa nation, leaving a vacuum yet to be filled.

A devoted husband, a caring father, and a loyal, honest and dependable friend, his virtues endeared him to all who knew him.

Today, his legacy lives on. He is fondly and eternally remembered by his beloved wife, Mrs. Roseline Ozegbe, his children, grandchildren, numerous friends, associates, and the entire Ndokwa nation.