The longest-serving traditional ruler in Anambra State, Ogbuefi James Chukwudolue, and his wife, Janet Chukwudolue, have died in quick succession.

The late traditional ruler of Umuezawala community Ihiala, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, who mounted the throne in 1964, passed away at the age of 89 after a brief illness.

News Express gathered that the late couple shared so much love while alive hence, his wife Janet, not being able to cope with the loss, died few days after.

The son, Okey Chukwudolue, in a statement, said the king and his wife would be buried the same day in memory of the love they shared while alive.

The statement reads in part: “The remains of one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Igbo land, Chief James Agukwu Chukwudolue, and his wife, Lolo Janet Chukwudolue, will be committed to mother earth the same day.

“Chief Chukwudolue was for 55 years the traditional ruler of Umuezawala, Ihiala in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.

“He was arguably the longest-serving traditional ruler in Anambra State, having mounted the throne as Ogbuehi of Umuezawala in 1964.

“Ogbuehi Chukwudolue died at the age of 89 after a brief illness; his wife, Janet, who apparently could not bear the pains of the separation followed a few days after.”

According to Chukwudolue, the three-day burial activities of their patriarch and matriarch would be kicked off by the beating of the traditional uhio music to announce their transition to eternity.

He added that the Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Bishop Hilary Okeke, would preside over the burial service.

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