The people of the Ebem Ujuruezie Ancient Kingdom in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State have been plunged into mourning following the official announcement of the transition of their long-reigning Paramount Ruler, His Royal Highness, Ezie Ukoha Kalu Ukoha (JP), KSC, who passed away at the age of 89.
​The announcement was made on Monday, October 5, 2026, during an emergency solemn assembly convened at the Ebem Royal Palace. Speaking on behalf of the Royal Family and the Ebem Palace Council, the Council Spokesperson, Chief Kalu Kalu Ndukwe, confirmed that the revered traditional ruler joined his ancestors peacefully in the early hours of Tuesday, following a brief illness surrounded by family members.
​Reflecting on the legacy of the departed monarch, Chief Ndukwe described the late Ezie Ukoha Kalu Ukoha as a titan of peace, justice, and community development whose leadership transformed the ancient kingdom over several decades.
​”His Royal Highness was not just a custodian of our ancient customs and heritage; he was a bridge-builder, a devout Christian, and a beacon of wisdom whose counsel was sought across Abia State and beyond,” Chief Ndukwe stated. “His reign brought unprecedented peace, unity, and infrastructural growth to Ebem Ujuruezie.”
​Addressing journalists at the palace press center, the Chairman of the Central Burial Planning Committee, Elder (Dr.) Okwara O. Kalu, outlined the official schedule for the royal funeral rites.
A 14-day period of traditional mourning has commenced across all autonomous communities within Ebem Ujuruezie, during which all public celebrations are suspended.
Day of Tributes & Night of Songs, scheduled for Thursday at 5:00 PM at the Ebem Civic Center, Abiriba-Ohafia Road.
Commendation Service to be held on Friday at 10:00 AM at St. Peter’s Presbyterian Church, Ebem Ohafia, where clergy, state dignitaries, and traditional leaders will pay their final respects.
The private interment will take place at the Royal Mausoleum inside the Ebem Royal Palace on Saturday, followed by traditional homage ceremonies by age grades, chiefs, and cultural groups.
​Tributes have begun flooding in from prominent community figures, political leaders, and traditional institutions across Nigeria, hailing the late monarch as a selfless leader who dedicated his life to the service of his people and the preservation of Ohafia cultural heritage.
​The Palace Council has opened a Condolence Register at the Ebem Royal Palace for well-wishers, community members, and dignitaries to record their tributes.
