Grief, solemn tributes and deep reflection marked the final journey of former Oru East State Constituency lawmaker, Chief Nkenna John Nzeruo, as he was laid to rest on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, in his hometown of Awo-Omamma, Oru East Local Government Area of Imo State.
The usually vibrant community stood still as family members, political allies, traditional rulers, clergy and residents gathered to honour a man widely described as selfless, fearless and deeply committed to public service. Emotions ran high as his remains were committed to the earth at his residence, bringing to a close a life many said was cut short too soon.
Chief Nzeruo, who represented Oru East State Constituency in the 8th Imo State House of Assembly (2015–2019), passed away at the age of 50.
Born to the family of Late Mr Henry Sunday Nzeruo and Mrs Florence Nzeruo of Umuejike Uzu Village, Ubachima I, Awo-Omamma, the late lawmaker was remembered for his discipline, humility and strong sense of community responsibility—qualities that endeared him to many across Imo State.
At a Requiem Mass held at St John’s Catholic Church, Ubachima, the homilist, Very Rev. Fr Donatus Okoro, described the late politician as a devout Christian who served diligently as an altar server in his youth. He noted that while death remains a mystery known only to God, Nzeruo’s life stood as a testament to selflessness, courage and love for humanity.
“He was trustworthy, fearless and deeply committed to God,” Fr Okoro said, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
The Parish Priest, Rev. Fr Kelechi Ugwoebu, revealed that the late lawmaker had eagerly looked forward to the dedication of the church but did not live to witness it. He noted that Chief Nzeruo became the first person to have a burial Mass in the newly dedicated church, a moment he described as both symbolic and deeply emotional.
The clergy lamented the loss of what they called a rare breed politician, offering prayers for divine comfort for his wife, Lolo Anthonet Ifeoma Nzeruo, and their children, while urging continued support for the bereaved family.
Reading his father’s biography, the deceased’s first son, Master Chukwuemeka Johnson Nzeruo, described his death as a painful void in the family. He recalled his father as a principled disciplinarian, cheerful giver and committed community leader who instilled strong moral values in his children. He also expressed gratitude to well-wishers for their prayers, support and financial assistance.
During his time at the Imo State House of Assembly, Chief Nzeruo sponsored several impactful motions and bills, notably the bill seeking the abolition of the Osu caste system and the inclusion of Oru East in the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC).
Condolence messages poured in from sympathisers who prayed for strength and fortitude for the family. Among those present at the funeral were traditional rulers led by HRH Eze Valentine Amanfor and his cabinet, religious leaders, politicians, academics and business leaders from across the state and beyond.
A day earlier, on Monday, January 5, 2026, a valedictory session was held in his honour at the Imo State House of Assembly, where serving and former lawmakers paid glowing tributes to his legacy. On the same day, his remains were received at the ISOPADEC headquarters in New Owerri by the Managing Director, Chief Austin Onyedebelu, in recognition of his service as a commissioner in the commission.
As Imo State mourns, many say the legacy of Chief Nkenna John Nzeruo will endure—etched in his service to humanity, his fight for social justice and his unwavering commitment to the people of Oru East.
