UMUAHIA — The ancient Ebem Ohafia Kingdom in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State has been thrown into mourning following the passing of its Paramount Ruler, His Royal Highness Eze Ukoha Kalu Ukoha (Kpoke I of Ekeluogo Ebem Autonomous Community), who joined his ancestors at the age of 89.
The death of the revered monarch, who ruled for 35 years as the Ezieogo of Ebem Ujuruezie, was officially announced on Monday morning, October 5, 2026, by the executive leadership of the Ebem Ohafia Development Union (EODU) and the Ebem Ohafia Council of Chiefs and Elders.
Confirming the monarch’s transition, the publicity secretary of the community, Ifeanyi Okali, described the late royal father as a champion of peace, cultural preservation, and socio-economic transformation across the Ohafia clan during his multi-decade stewardship on the throne.
Ascending the throne over three decades ago, Eze Ukoha was instrumental in resolving intra-community land disputes, mediating traditional institution frameworks, and spearheading civic infrastructure projects across the ancient kingdom.
Following traditional customs, the Ebem Ohafia Council of Chiefs has commenced customary rites and public consultation processes, with royal burial schedules and formal mourning protocols to be communicated by the family and palace elders.
