Zazzau Mourns: Eze Ndi Igbo of Zazzau's Burial Brings City to Standstill

From B.J Lord, Zaria 

The city of Zaria came to a grinding halt on Saturday, March 14, 2026, as thousands of mourners gathered to bid farewell to the late Igwe (Sir) Unogu Vitus Ibeh KSM, JP, Eze Ndi-Igbo Zazzau,  

The late Eze's burial ceremony, held at the Pastoral Center in Graceland, Sabon Gari, Zaria, drew a massive crowd of dignitaries, traditional leaders, and well-wishers from across Kaduna State and beyond. 

Notable among the attendees were the representative of Kaduna State Government, the Zazzau Emirate Council, District head of Sabon gari, Security agents, Business and Commercial moguls and the Igbo communities across the country.

The late traditional ruler, was laid to rest amidst tributes and eulogies from prominent figures.

Our Correspondant reports that, during the burial, the atmosphere was calm and somber, with many people expressing their condolences to the bereaved family and the Ndi Igbos of Zazzau.

The report added that Business and commercial activities were paralyzed as Igbo community closed shops to allow people attend the burial ceremony. 

Speaking shortly after event, Chief Ephraim Umeasigbu Ohazurume, the Acting Eze Ndi Igbo expressed appreciation for the massive turnout which he described as a reflection of the respect and admiration the late traditional ruler commanded.

According to him the turn out was also a great testament to the late Eze's love, respect and impact on the community

Chief Ohazurume while acknowledging various support from Ndi Igbo for the success of the burial, prayed God to reciprocate the gesture accordingly.

The Acting Eze urged all Igbo community to continue to pray for the soul of deceased and seek God to protect and promote the family.

 

He enjoined Igbos across the country to continue to be their brother's keeper and imbibe the spirit of unity wherever they find themselves for socio-economic and political development of the country.

The acting Eze while emphasizing on justice and fairness, assured Igbos that due process and constitutional provisions will be followed in the selection of a new Eze Ndi Igbo of Zazzau.

He however cautioned that the process will not be too soon as traditionally a long period of time is allocated for the mourning period of the late Igbo Chief.