“We’ve come to celebrate the life of one of our best,” declared Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, as he led family members, military top brass, and government officials to pay final respects to the late Lieutenant General (Dr.) Chikadibia Isaac Obiakor (rtd).
Governor Soludo paid his tribute at the solemn yet celebratory Eck Memorial Service held at the Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, honoring the revered military strategist and global peace icon who lived from 1951 to 2025 and passed away on May 27, 2026.
Extending his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, Governor Soludo described the late general as a distinguished son of the soil who proudly crisscrossed the globe to maintain peace, law, and order, ultimately serving as “Anambra’s export to Nigeria and the world.”
However, the Governor emphasized that despite these towering international achievements, the most crucial measure of a man remains his local impact.
“The impact on the community is the most important impact—that his people were able to testify that he was good.”
Addressing broader societal challenges, Governor Soludo reflected on public perception regarding the military and security services. He candidly noted that because the perception of the armed forces among the populace is often poor, young citizens are frequently begged to enroll in the army, police, and other security outfits.
Explaining why Awka indigenes continue to answer the call of service, Governor Soludo stated that it is because precursors like General Obiakor became true role models. He charged community leaders and elders to emulate this by bridging the gap. “We must multitask… become the villager, as a way of inspiring and motivating the younger ones,” he urged, stressing the vital importance of grassroots connection.
Representing the Chief of Defense Staff, Major General T.E. Gagariga also extended his deepest condolences to the Obiakor family, joining the state and the nation in mourning a decorated veteran whose illustrious service brought immense honor and dignity to the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Earlier during the service, the son of the deceased, Nonso Obiakor, reflected on a remarkable life well-lived by his father —highlighting a lasting legacy built on strict discipline, international peacekeeping, and an unwavering commitment to humanity.
The service drew a mammoth crowd to Alex Ekwueme Square, all gathered to honor a life that left an indelible mark on Awka, Anambra State, and the global community.
