The Abia Government, in collaboration with the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation Ohanaeze Ndigbo, yesterday held a commendation service in honour of the renowned Professor of Insurance, Prof. Joe Irukwu.

Irukwu, who hailed from Item in Bende Local Government Area of the state, died on July 7 at the age of 89.

The President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, formally received Irukwu’s remains at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, venue of the service and also decorated his casket with Ohanaeze uniform.

In a tribute, Iwuanyanwu proclaimed Irukwu a “Hero of Igboland”, whose accomplishments in life were not only enviable and inspiring but worthy of emulation by all Igbo sons and daughters.

He further said that Irukwu’s name would be in the Igbo Hall of Fame, in recognition of his attainment in life right from his days as a youth.

The Ohaneze chieftain further said that Irukwu’s life and time posed a serious challenge to contemporary Igbo youths.

Also, Gov. Alex Otti of Abia, described  Irukwu as a seasoned administrator and selfless statesman that contributed immensely to advancing the cause of Ndigbo during his life time.

The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, further described Irukwu’s demise as a huge loss to the state and nation at large.

Otti said that the deceased made impactful contributions to the growth of the insurance and legal profession.

He said that the deceased was the pioneer President of Nigeria Rail Insurance Corporation and the first Professor of Insurance in Nigeria and later became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).