EBENATOR MOURNS THE FALL OF AN IROKO, HON. DR. HARRY ORANEZI (IFÈMBÀ)
January 25, 2026
The Leadership of Ebenator Development Union (E.D.U.) and the entire people of Ebenator Community in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State, received with sadness, and a heavy sense of loss the news of the fall of one of our tallest Irokos, Hon. Dr. Harry Oranezi (Ifemba), a great and highly illustrious son of the community.
The sad news of Ifèmba’s passing, which occurred in the early hours of yesterday, Saturday, January 24, 2026, after a brief illness, has cast a dark cloud of grief over Ebenator, leaving behind pain, silence, and an irreplaceable vacuum in our heart as Ndị Ebenator. More regrettably, this unfavourable news is coming just few weeks after he marked his 59th birthday on sick bed.
Dr. Harry Oranezi was not only a prominent national figure, but a deeply rooted community man whose heart remained firmly with his people. A medical doctor by profession, Ifèmba was a former Member of the House of Representatives, influential political figure, and the Director-General of Atiku-Obi Campaign Council in Anambra State in 2019; but beyond positions, he was first and foremost a patriotic and deeply committed son of Ebenator Ozulọgụ. He carried the name, honour, and progress of his community as a personal responsibility and consistently demonstrated this through actions that spoke louder than words.
Throughout his lifetime, Dr. Harry Oranezi remained firm and exemplary in his dedication to the development, unity, and advancement of Ebenator. He was a true believer that true leadership is measured by impact, sacrifice, and service to humanity; and this belief guided his engagements both in public life and within the community.
His influence and interventions cut across social development, infrastructure support, and humanitarian assistance, which have all left visible and lasting footprints across the community.
One of the most visible legacies of his commitment to Ebenator’s development was his instrumental role in the recent tarring of the major entrance into the community, stretching from Ebenator Junction to Orienwankwọ Market. Today, this all-important infrastructure and interventional project that progressed and got completed even while he was still on sick bed, has not only eased transportation and boosted commercial activities but also restored dignity to the vital access route into the community.
Dr. Oranezi was also known for his noble character, uncommon compassion, and deep sense of responsibility to the less privileged. Even while battling his own health challenges, he remained accessible and responsive to calls for help, counsel, and community intervention. Even while still on sick bed, the latest edition of Ebenator Youth Football Tournament held this yuletide to his name.
To Ebenator, Nnewi South, Anambra State and beyond, Dr. Oranezi was more than a leader, but a bridge-builder, a stabilizing force, a benefactor, and a dependable voice.
His passing, indeed, is a monumental loss to Ebenator Community, to Anambra State, to Nigeria, and to all who encountered his generosity, wisdom, and selfless service. The Iroko tree has fallen, but its shade, fruits, and legacy will endure for generations.
The leadership and people of Ebenator extend our deepest condolences to his beloved wife, children, and the entire Oranezi family, praying that God grants them the strength to bear this irreparable loss. We also commiserate with all those whose lives he touched through his service, generosity, and leadership.
May the soul of Hon. Dr. Harry Oranezi find eternal rest, and may his legacy of commitment, compassion, and community service continue to inspire generations yet unborn.
Signed:
Izunna Okafor
Public Relations Officer
Ebenator Development Union (E.D.U.)
For:
The President-General
Amb. Henry Chigozie Anadi
