The serene community of Umukoloma in Affa, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State has been thrown into deep mourning following the death of one of its distinguished sons, Dr. Obute Marius Aniji. The academic genius and former Vice Principal passed away on Friday, September 14, 2024, at the Mother of Christ Hospital, Enugu, after a brief illness. He was 68 years old.
Dr. Aniji's passing marks a great loss not only for his family but also for the entire Umukoloma community, where he played a prominent role in community development and cultural preservation. Until his demise, he served as the Secretary General of the Umukoloma Development Union (UDU) "mainstream" and was the Vice Chairman of the Umukoloma Elders Council (UEC). His contributions to the community were vast and influential, earning him the respect and admiration of his people.
Born in 1956 into the family of late Chief Aniji of Umukoloma, Affa, Dr. Obute Aniji was a man of exceptional intellect. He earned his Ph.D. from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), where he made significant contributions to academic research and knowledge in his field. His brilliance and dedication to education inspired many students and colleagues alike, leaving a lasting legacy at UNN and beyond.
Dr. Aniji was also a deeply devoted cultural custodian of the Affa people. He championed the customs and traditions of Umukoloma and worked tirelessly to preserve the heritage of his ancestors. As a community leader, his passion for unity, peace, and development was unmatched, and his leadership roles in both the UDU and UEC reflect his commitment to the progress of Umukoloma.
In accordance with the customs and traditions of his people, Dr. Aniji's family has announced that his burial will take place on Friday, September 27, 2024, at his country home in Umukoloma, Affa, Udi LGA, Enugu State. The entire community will gather to bid farewell to this exceptional leader, scholar, and son of the soil. His death has left a vacuum that will be difficult to fill, and the people of Umukoloma will continue to cherish his memory.
The family of the late Dr. Obute Marius Aniji, together with the Umukoloma Development Union and the Umukoloma Elders Council, extend their heartfelt appreciation to all those who have shown support during this difficult time. In a joint statement, Chief Mike Ani, Chairman of the Umukoloma Development Union, and Chief Hon. Charles Ani, Chairman of the Umukoloma Elders Council, expressed their deep sorrow on behalf of the people of Umukoloma and the Aniji family. They described Dr. Aniji's passing as a "monumental loss" to the community and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
May the gentle soul of Dr. Obute Marius Aniji rest in perfect peace. Amen.
Signed:
Chief Mike Ani (Chairman, Umukoloma Development Union, Mainstream)
Chief Hon. Charles Ani (Chairman, Umukoloma Elders Council)
On behalf of the people of Umukoloma Okengwu and the Aniji family.
