Biography

BIOGRAPHY OF LATE HIGH CHIEF ALPHONSUS ONUAWUCHI OKOR0

Early Life

Late High Chief Alphonsus Onuawuchi Okoro was born on May 21, 1948, to Mr Isaiah and Mrs Elizabeth Okorohoha in Umuofeze, Umuihuocha-Obohia. He began his education at St. Paul’s Anglican School, Umuedo-Obohia, where he excelled, achieving a distinction in his Standard Six examinations.

Despite his academic promise, financial constraints required him to begin working at the age of 14. This marked the start of a remarkable career spanning 62 years, culminating in his retirement in August 2024. His journey took him from Aboh-Mbaise to Northern Nigeria and eventually to Lagos State, where he established himself professionally.

Education

While residing in Lagos, High Chief Okoro pursued advanced education in commercial and secretarial studies, earning certifications such as the RSA Certification from the prestigious Pitman Institute, London.

He furthered his education by studying Law at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Upon completing his studies, he attended the Nigerian Law School and was called to the Bar in 1985. His academic pursuits continued in 1990 at Crown College, London, where he completed advanced studies in computer science and briefly served as a lecturer.

Career

High Chief Alphonsus Okoro’s career journey was diverse and illustrious:

• Ministry of Labour, Lagos (1966–1967): He began his civil service career here before the Nigerian Civil War interrupted his tenure.

• Ministry of Establishment and Ministry of Information, Enugu (1970–1973): Following the war, he returned to civil service in various secretarial and administrative capacities.

• Institute of Management and Technology (1974): He briefly worked with the Central Investment Company before joining the Institute of Management and Technology.

• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (1975–1990): High Chief Okoro worked in the office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, where his diligence earned him the nickname "Okoro DVC" within the university community.

• Crown College, London (1990): He pursued further studies in the UK and served as a lecturer.

• Prince Abdulaziz International Hospital, Saudi Arabia (1991–1994): He worked as Assistant Hospital Administrator.

• Sultan Qaboos University, Oman (1994–2024): High Chief Okoro headed the Examinations Department in the College of Medicine, serving with distinction for 30 years until his retirement.

Family

On September 2, 1978, High Chief Alphonsus Okoro married the love of his life. Their union was blessed with five children—four sons and one daughter.

Christian Faith

High Chief Alphonsus Okoro was deeply rooted in his Catholic faith. In 1985, he became the youngest Parish Council Chairman of St. Mulumba’s Catholic Church, UNEC. Under his leadership, the church's construction progressed from its foundation to roofing, enabling the Catholic community to celebrate Masses.

In 1986, he joined the Order of the Knights of St. John and served as recording and corresponding secretary until he relocated abroad.

In Oman, he served as Vice President of the Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Ghala for eight years and led the lectors' community for 10 years. A devout Eucharistic minister, he assisted priests in distributing the Blessed Sacrament.

Public Life

A philanthropist and humanitarian, High Chief Okoro was recognized by numerous traditional, community, and religious organizations. He served as Chairman of the Obohia Township Union for many years and was a patron of multiple organizations. While in Oman, he worked closely with the African community, supporting initiatives such as St. Theresa’s Poor Fund.

Traditional Titles

High Chief Alphonsus Okoro was a celebrated custodian of his culture and traditions. In 1988, he was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Onunaekwuru Oha 1 in Obohia, Ahiazu-Mbaise, becoming one of the youngest recipients of such an honour.

In 2022, he received the title of High Chief as he was installed the Ugwumba 1 of the Umuihuocha-Obohia autonomous community.

Call to Glory

On December 22, 2024, High Chief Alphonsus Onuawuchi Okoro passed away peacefully in his sleep at his beloved home in Umuihuocha, Obohia.

May his legacy endure and his soul rest in eternal peace.