Hello and Welcome
YOU ARE ABOUT TO JOURNEY INTO AN INSPIRED, DECENT AND FULFILLED LIFE OF OGBUNECHENDO HON. JUSTICE UMEGBOLU EMMANUEL OKOYE NRI-EZEDI, CHIEF JUDGE (EMERITUS)
THE BIOGRAPHY
Early Life and Family Background
Hon. Justice Umegbolu Emmanuel Okoye Nri-Ezedi, fondly called “Daddy” by his children, was born on January 2, 1943, into a large polygamous family. His father, Late Chief Nwokoye Anene Nri-Ezedi (Enyivuaku), was a wealthy and influential man by every standard and a revered Ozo title holder from Uruoji Village in the ancient Nri Kingdom, Anambra State. His father “Enyivuaku” married three wives. Daddy was the first son of his father's second wife, Late Mrs. Chinwe Nri-Ezedi (Nee Ubah), who hailed from Agbadani Village, Nri. Apparently, as the mother of a lawyer whose son, at that time in the 1960s, achieved a no mean feat of studying law overseas, she proudly wore the toga of “Nne Loya” and was widely known in Nri town with the sobriquet “Apili,” which, I think, was a corrupt version of the word “Appeal.”
Daddy had an elder sister and a younger brother who were his full siblings, and several half-brothers and half-sisters. Most of them are deceased. Notwithstanding the polygamous family background, Daddy and all his siblings were knitted together in love, which bond made the Nri-Ezedi family impregnable.
Early Education and the Hand of Providence
From a young age, Daddy displayed exceptional brilliance and a natural thirst for learning. He carved a niche quite early in his childhood to have an outstanding and impactful life. Recognizing his potential, one of his relatives, who was then working at Aba enrolled him at Christ the King School, Aba, to commence his primary education. Unfortunately, that promising chapter was cut short when his guardian unexpectedly relocated out of Aba, prompting Daddy’s return to the village.
Daddy was not at all deterred as he continued with his studies in the village. Although his father “Enyivuaku” had no formal education, Daddy’s academic journey was far from over. Soon after his return from Aba, his uncle, Late Mr. Donald Igwebudu Nri-Ezedi, a well-educated and prosperous man working with the Nigerian Railway Corporation, became a pivotal figure in his life. During one of his visits to the village on vacation, Uncle Donald came across Daddy’s schoolwork and was struck by his sharp mind and the precision of his handwriting. From his interactions with Daddy, who was then a little boy, he knew and was convinced that Daddy was a promising young lad.
From that moment on, Uncle Donald took Daddy under his wing, relocating him to Onitsha, and became his lifelong mentor and benefactor, investing wholeheartedly in Daddy’s education and wellbeing both at home and abroad. It was a turning point that would open doors to a future marked by academic excellence and purposeful achievement.
Blossoming in Onitsha
Daddy’s relocation to Onitsha marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in his life. Despite coming from a village, he was not daunted by the metropolitan lifestyle in Onitsha as he quickly adapted to the new realities. He was enrolled at St. Mary’s Primary School, Onitsha where he continued his primary education and quickly distinguished himself. He made excellent grade in the Common Entrance Examination and obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1954.
The following year, in 1955, he gained admission into the prestigious Christ the King College (CKC), Onitsha, where his talents truly began to shine. At CKC, Daddy’s brilliance was not confined to the classroom. He excelled both in academics and athletics emerging as a gifted quarter-miler and a remarkable sportsman. He proudly represented the school in numerous competitions, bringing home accolades that reflected his discipline, determination and competitive spirit. The pictures he took with his teammates and their Irish coach adorned his photo album as cherished memories.
Further Academic Pursuits: Fulfillment of an Aspiration to Study Law
After Daddy graduated from CKC, he continued to burn the proverbial night candle in his earnest desire to gain admission to study law in the UK. A desire that was propelled and influenced by Daddy’s fantasies to be like his relation Late Chief Philip Ezebuilo Umeadi, SAN, who was the first Nri man to study law overseas. Daddy pursued private studies in Economics and British Constitution. In 1961, he sat for the General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level examinations, which he passed with distinction, earning him admission to study Law at the University of London.
He graduated from the University of London with a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) with honours in 1964. In 1965, Daddy was called to the English Bar and admitted to the Honourable Society of the Inner Temple. His name was accordingly entered on the Roll of Barristers of the High Court of Justice, Queen’s Bench Division in 1965.
As a lifelong learner, Daddy immediately enrolled in a postgraduate program and earned his Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the same University of London in 1966. On a lighter note, Daddy would often boast, humorously, to his family that he obtained his “Li-Li-Mi” from London.
Still filled with academic zeal, he enrolled in a PhD program just before the outbreak of the Nigerian Civil War. However, Late Chief Philip Ezebuilo Umeadi, SAN, felt that Daddy had already proved his mettle and talked Daddy into coming back to Nigeria to start a lucrative law practice. Prior to the outbreak of the Nigerian Civil War, and driven by the spirit of patriotism, Daddy abandoned his PhD program in London and returned home to support his family and relations. During the war, Daddy enrolled and obtained an award of diploma from the Republic of Biafra Council of Legal Education. He attended the Biafra Law School. When the war ended, Daddy still proceeded to the Nigerian Law School, Lagos, and upon a successful completion of the legal education, he was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1971.
Daddy’s sojourn in Lagos while at the Law School was made much lighter by a bosom friend. Daddy remained ever grateful to Prince Ben Egwuatu Okolo, the patriarch of Eze Nri Ubalike family who gracefully accommodated him in Lagos. Prince Ben Egwuatu Okolo has clocked 100 years plus and is indeed more than a friend and a senior brother to Daddy. Daddy’s death really broke his heart, and he openly lamented that Daddy who should bury him has exited the stage before him.
Daddy and His Heartthrob – Love that Stood the Test of Time
Daddy met the love of his life, Constance Izualor Okafor, whom he fondly called Connie. Only Daddy reserved the right to use that pet name Connie. For us the children, we call her Mommy, with due respect. She is a core disciplinarian just like Daddy. Mommy is from the reputable family of Okafor Nwaononikpo of Umuochiogu kindred in Obeagu Village, Nri.
Daddy met and fell in love with Mommy quite early in life. As a young student in the college, Daddy would often pass by Mommy’s family compound while visiting his childhood friend, Late Edmund Okoye, during vacation. Each time he spotted Mommy, who was then a little girl in elementary school, he’d jokingly tell his friend Edmund, “One day, I will marry that little girl.” What began as a playful remark would quietly take root.
Though Daddy’s academic journey took him away from the village, the seed of love had already been sown. By a twist of fate, they reconnected in Ibadan in 1960. At that time, Mommy had blossomed into a graceful and intelligent young lady and was training as a student midwife at Sacred Heart Hospital Abeokuta. Mommy came all the way from Abeokuta to Ibadan in August 1960 to attend a friend’s wedding and met Daddy in Ibadan. That chance meeting rekindled their bond in the most beautiful way.
Daddy and Mommy began to spend time together, sharing stories, dreams, and their hopes for the future. It was during those moments that Daddy spoke tenderly of his desire to study Law in London, a dream that Mommy took to heart and guarded with quiet devotion.
Surprisingly, Mommy left for London before Daddy, following her own dreams of becoming a British-trained nurse. When Daddy eventually arrived in London, their love blossomed even more, deepened by shared purpose, distance, and the dreams they carried together. Mommy qualified as a registered nurse in the UK, while Daddy also qualified as a lawyer.
But history would once again test their love. With the outbreak of the Nigerian Civil War, Daddy returned home while Mommy remained in Britain. Communication became difficult. Still, the bond endured. Eventually, Mommy arrived Nigeria on May 10, 1970 by sea. She was among the first set of Nigerians to come home after
the Nigerian Civil War. She fell into the warm embrace of Daddy as they both missed each other.
They got married in 1971 at the Marriage Registry in Ikoyi, Lagos, and welcomed their first child, Chinwe, shortly after. Daddy established his legal career while Mommy worked with the Lagos State Hospital Management Board, later serving at the Railway Hospital in Ebute Meta.
The family eventually settled in Onitsha, where Daddy and Mommy thrived in their respective professions and raised their children in a home filled with love, discipline, and purpose. Mommy, after a meritorious service to humanity retired as Deputy Director of Nursing Services at Iyi-Enu Mission Hospital, Ogidi.
In their later years, they moved to Enugu, where they enjoyed a peaceful retirement—surrounded by the legacy they had built together, and the warmth of memories forged over a lifetime of love, resilience, and companionship.
Their love, nurtured from childhood, had weathered time and distance. It became a love story admired by many—so much so that they were often referred to as twins, and Mommy was lovingly teased as Daddy’s handbag because they were rarely seen apart.
A Distinguished Legal Career both at the Bar and on the Bench
Upon his return to Onitsha in January 1972, Daddy joined his esteemed relation, Late Chief Phillip Ezebuilo Umeadi (SAN), in legal practice. He stayed briefly and ventured to open his own law firm “Umegbolu Nri-Ezedi Chambers”. A sharp and principled legal mind, he built a solid reputation as a legal practitioner. He eschewed unethical practices and stood out as a conscientious advocate and solicitor. By dint of his unsullied reputation, he later formed a partnership, known as “Iguh, Nri-Ezedi Chambers”.
In 1993, Daddy was appointed a High Court Judge in Anambra State, marking the beginning of a well-regarded and impactful judicial career. He made history as the first Nri man to be appointed a High Court Judge. He was a quintessential jurist, ready to accommodate young lawyers and new wigs but at the same time he had zero tolerance for nonsense. One of the most defining moments of his time on the bench came during the impeachment case of His Excellency, Mr. Peter Obi, as the then Governor of Anambra State.
The Impeachment Case
Daddy’s tenacity and vow to do justice even though the heavens fall was put to test in the impeachment case involving His Excellency, Mr. Peter Obi. Despite intense pressure and serious threats, Daddy remained unwavering in his commitment to justice. Many attempts were also made to induce him to pervert justice but he stood his ground.
When the case file was unexpectedly withdrawn from his court, Daddy, in his characteristic humility and integrity, quietly stepped away from it—refusing to compromise his principles. However, the National Judicial Council (NJC) soon intervened and ordered that the case file be returned to his court. Daddy went on to deliver a landmark judgment that upheld the rule of law and saved Anambra State from what would have been a colossal injustice. Justice was enthroned and heavens did not fall. This moment reaffirmed Daddy’s legacy as a fair, courageous and incorruptible judge.
In 2007, Daddy was appointed the Chief Judge of Anambra State, making another history as the first Nri man to hold this prestigious position. He served with distinction and righted many administrative wrongs in the judiciary. He retired honourably in January 2008.
Daddy’s Iconic Achievement and Personality
In 2016, Daddy was honored for his outstanding public service in Anambra State, a recognition of his years of distinguished service and unwavering dedication. The acknowledgment brought him deep fulfillment, and he remained profoundly grateful to God.
Daddy's personality was an embodiment of wisdom, dignity, and quiet strength. To him, education was not merely a value—it was a sacred duty. He believed that knowledge was the great equalizer, the one true inheritance that could never be taken away. With this conviction, he was intentionally present in the lives of his six children, whom he guided with firm but affectionate hands. At home, excellence was not an expectation—it was a way of life.
His unwavering belief in hard work and discipline bore fruit, as each of his children excelled in their respective fields and being upright citizens. Even in his later years, he extended the same dedication to his grandchildren, determined that the values he instilled would echo across generations.
A man of discipline and unyielding commitment to excellence, Daddy had an incredible gift for seeing potential in others—often before they could see it in themselves. His methods, however, were strict and uncompromising. He had no tolerance for laziness or half measures. Many misunderstood him at first, unable to grasp the depth of his expectations. But in the end, when success was achieved, they saw the wisdom in his ways.
His motto was simple yet profound: “There is no failure in hard work.” To Daddy, excuses were meaningless. What mattered was effort, resilience, and determination.
To be one of Daddy’s children was to understand that striving for anything less than excellence was not an option. His discipline extended well beyond academics. Together with Mommy, he instilled in us the value of self-reliance. As a family while growing up, we worked the land, growing our own food and embracing the dignity of labour. While peers may have teased us about Daddy’s strict methods, in the end, we reaped the fruits of his vision. His training, though firm, became a blueprint for success, even to the quiet admiration of those who once misunderstood him.
To be his friend was to be challenged to grow beyond limits you never imagined. And to be within his circle meant embracing one undeniable truth: you would succeed, because failure simply wasn’t allowed. His teachings shaped not just his family, but an entire generation of people privileged to learn from him. He was firm.
Yet, beneath his firm exterior was a deeply compassionate soul. Though he carried himself with strength and unwavering resolve, his tenderness often revealed itself in the quietest moments especially within his family. Suffice it to say that, inwardly, Mommy is even a stronger person than Daddy. When two of his children fell gravely ill, the challenge was not only their recovery but how to break the news to Daddy. And when he finally learned of their condition, he did not disappoint. His uncontrollable tears bore witness to the depth of his heart. In this respect, he was, perhaps, the weakest in his family. That delicate balance of strength and softness was a hallmark of his character.
Beyond his relentless pursuit of excellence, Daddy was a man of profound humility. The Igbo proverb “Ezi afa ka ego” (a good name is worth more than wealth) was not just something he said, but something he lived. To him, wealth meant nothing if it compromised integrity. He believed that true fulfillment came not from possessions, but from a life built on honesty, diligence, and an untarnished reputation. He always cautioned us to keep our hands clean and reminded us that money can only offer comfort, but a good name brings peace, honor and true contentment.
Daddy was not just an accomplished man. He was a force of nature. A beacon of wisdom, discipline, and enduring principles. His presence commanded respect, not through loudness or authority, but through the quiet strength of his character. As a revered judge, his career was defined by integrity, fairness, and a relentless pursuit of justice.
A Quiet Philanthropist
Daddy touched countless lives. He did not forget the benevolence of his benefactors. He gave generously never for recognition, but out of a deep sense of purpose and responsibility. He sought opportunities to uplift others, often supporting people his own family only later came to know. He gave his family a charge to always do charity. According to Daddy, charity is a religion we all need to practice.
A Life Rooted in Family
Daddy was not a man of many friends. He cherished a quiet and thoughtful life, and believed in meaningful, impactful friendships. One such bond that deeply enriched
his life was with late Hon. Justice Eugene Chukwuemeka Ubaezonu, CON, JCA, whose friendship he held in the highest regard.
Daddy was a devoted husband to his beloved wife for over 54 years, and a father who raised his children with the same care, precision, and dedication that he brought to every aspect of his life. His world revolved around his family and his greatest joy was found in his family. In December 2019, at his request, all his children returned home with their spouses and grandchildren, filling the house with joy and shared memories. Again in December 2024, most of his children with their spouses and the grandchildren came home for another celebration, which culminated in what would become his final birthday celebration on January 2nd, 2025.
Surrounded by love, Daddy made a touching request that Mommy, his children and grandchildren join him for what would now be the last dance with Daddy on earth. That dance, unbeknownst to us, filled with grace and quiet farewell, has now and will forever be a sacred memory for the family.
Final Years and Enduring Legacy
For many years, Daddy cherished and answered with pride his father’s Ozo title name, “Enyivuaku”. But in 2022, he was formally initiated into the prestigious Ozo Society of the Ancient Nri Kingdom, where he received his own Ozo title name “Ogbunechendo” meaning “an expansive tree that shelters many.” His Ozo title name aptly defined the life Daddy lived as a silent philanthropist.
He was a protector, a mentor, a man of deep principle, and a guiding light whose influence will continue to echo for generations. As his loved ones gather to honour his memory, they do so not only with sorrow, but with profound gratitude for the extraordinary legacy he left behind. His life was a masterclass in perseverance, and his teachings served as a roadmap to greatness.
Though his passing is painful, his family finds comfort in knowing that his legacy endures in the lives he shaped, the justice he upheld, and the boundless love he gave. His was not a life of unfulfilled dreams but a life poured out fully, faithfully, and with honour.
Perhaps Daddy’s greatest lesson of all was the wisdom to know when a journey was complete. He embodied contentment, the rare grace of a man who knew he had lived well and fulfilled his purpose. He was never afraid of death. He met it with quiet readiness, knowing he had given his all to his family, to his profession, to his community, and to the values he held dear.
In his final days, when weakness became evident, Daddy gently declined hospital care, preferring the quiet dignity of home. It wasn’t until the doctor insisted, that he agreed to go. That hospital visit, as it turned out, was the end as Daddy did not return home. But Daddy was ready to return to God Almighty, having lived a good, fulfilled and accomplished life.
As God would have it, Daddy transitioned peacefully on March 8, 2025 with his family gathered around him, both physically and virtually. A final gift of unity and grace.
Though his passing is deeply painful, his loved ones take solace in knowing that Daddy was prepared for this final journey. His life was not simply long, it was deeply purposeful. A life of service, love and unwavering conviction. A life that now inspires those he left behind to carry forward his legacy with courage, compassion, and faith.
Daddy, you lived with purpose, loved with depth, and led with quiet strength. Your legacy is engraved not just in the records of justice, fairness and equity, but in the hearts of all who knew you. We miss you dearly, but we carry your light forward with pride, with gratitude, and with love.
Rest well, Ogbunechendo.
Adieu our beloved Daddy.
Your work is done. May the angels welcome you with warm embrace.
Daddy’s Surviving Relations
Wife:
Lady Constance Izualor Nri-Ezedi (Nne Udo)
Son:
Hon. Justice Emeka Samuel Nri-Ezedi (Nigeria)
Daughters:
Dr. (Mrs.) Chinwe Ejikeme (USA)
His Worship Ndidi Onunkwo (Nigeria)
Mrs. Adaora Nri-Ezedi-Otti (UK)
Mrs. Uchenna Okhidemeh (Nigeria)
Dr. (Mrs.) Chinenye Nri-Ezedi-Anejionu (UK)
Engr. Chukwudumebi Ejikeme (USA)
Chikosolu Ejikeme (USA)
Ifenlota Ejikeme (USA)
Dilichukwu Ejikeme (USA)
Kenechukwu Onunkwo (Nigeria)
Kosisochukwu Onunkwo (Nigeria)
Kasiemobi Onunkwo (Nigeria)
Kamdilichukwu Onunkwo (Nigeria)
Leslie Otti (UK)
Wesley Otti (UK)
Chiagoziem Nri-Ezedi (Nigeria)
Onochie Nri-Ezedi (Nigeria)
Ozioma Nri-Ezedi (Nigeria)
Ikenna Nri-Ezedi (Nigeria)
Ewela Oghena Okhidemeh (Nigeria)
Oshiozemeh Okhidemeh (Nigeria)
Oshioremeh Okhidemeh (Nigeria)
Emoshoike Okhidemeh (Nigeria)
Icon Anejionu (UK)
Chizaram Anejionu (UK)
Engr. Stanley Ejikeme (USA)
Hon. Justice Okechukwu Raphael Onunkwo (Nigeria)
Mr. Chukwuma Otti (UK)
Mr. Richard Okhidemeh (Nigeria)
Dr. Obinna Anejionu (UK)
Daughter-in- Law:
Dr. (Mrs.) Chisom Nri-Ezedi (Nigeria)
Chief Chukwuneke Nri-Ezedi (Ochudo)
Chief Chidube Nri-Ezedi (Ugonwanne)
Chief Ikwunne Nri-Ezedi (Isinawagu)
Mrs. Josephine Nwokoye
Mrs. Antonia Mmako
Mrs. Cordelia Ufom
Mrs. Nma Onuora
Signed
Hon. Justice Emeka Samuel Nri-Ezedi
(For the family)