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Renowned author of ‘The Village Headmaster,’ Prof Anezi Okoro, passes away at 94
Professor Anezionwu Okoro, the acclaimed author of literary works such as ‘One Week, One Trouble’ and ‘The Village Headmaster,’ has passed away at the age of 94. The sad news was confirmed by his first son, Chukwuma Aneziokoro, who informed newsmen on Saturday in Enugu.
Chukwuma shared that his father peacefully departed in his sleep during the early hours of Saturday at his residence in Enugu. Reflecting on his father’s life, he remarked, “He had been sick for some time. But he died peacefully around 4 a.m. He was a great man, caring father, and husband. I will sorely miss him.”
Born on May 17, 1929, in Arondizuogu, Imo, Anezi Okoro was not only a distinguished author but also the first dermatologist in West Africa and the second in Africa. His contributions extended beyond literature, encompassing medicine, health, environmental sciences, and ecology.
Throughout his illustrious career, Prof Anezi authored numerous notable works, including ‘The Village School’ and ‘The Village Headmaster,’ along with over 200 poems. His latest achievement was the translation of 10 of Lamb’s tales of Shakespeare into the Igbo language, titled ‘Akuko Ufodu Shakespeare Koro,’ in collaboration with Mrs. Nwobiara Chukwura.
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Anezi’s educational journey took him to Methodist College, Uzuakoli, Abia State, Nigeria, for secondary school. He later served as a house surgeon at University College Hospital, Ibadan, from 1957 to 1959. In 1975, he commenced his academic career as a professor of medicine at the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN).
Beyond academia, Anezi Okoro held prominent roles, including president of the African Association for Dermatology from 1986 to 1991, director at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) from 1977 to 1981, and a visiting professor at various international institutions.
The nonagenarian, a former Chairman of the Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB) and member of the Petroleum Development Trust Fund (PTDF), leaves behind his wife, Ese, a gynaecologist, and four children.
The literary community mourns the loss of a visionary storyteller, medical pioneer, and esteemed academic. Prof Anezi Okoro’s legacy will undoubtedly endure through his impactful contributions to literature, medicine, and education.
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