Oforola Mourns as Its Oldest Man, Celestine Obiwumma, Dies at 115 After Brief Illness

The oldest man in the Oforola community, Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State, Celestine Obiwumma, has passed away at the remarkable age of 115 after a brief illness.

His death, which occurred on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, has left the entire Oforola community in deep sorrow, even as many describe his passing as one worth celebrating, considering his long and impactful life.

The late Celestine hailed from Umuimeka, one of the nine villages that make up the Oforola autonomous community.

The other villages include Obagwa, Umuadu, Umuogide, Umueke, Umuagubiam, Umuezeroke, Amoji, and Amaku.

He was widely known as a man of peace, wisdom, and strong moral values.

Many regarded him as a living archive of Oforola’s traditions and history, having witnessed the community’s transformation across generations.

A Kristina Reports correspondent who once interviewed him recalled how he shared the full history of Oforola, speaking with clarity and passion about the people’s roots, growth, and unity.

Celestine was also known as the last child of the Obiwumma family to pass away, marking the end of an era for the lineage.

The Obiwumma family is now left with the grandchildren and succeeding generations who continue to uphold the family’s name and legacy.

Residents of Umuimeka and beyond have continued to pay tribute to the departed patriarch, describing him as a man who lived an extraordinary life filled with humility, knowledge, and devotion to God and community.

Though his death brings pain, many believe his 115 years on earth represent a life of divine favour, one that deserves to be celebrated with gratitude rather than grief.