Tears, Tributes as Popular Journalist ‘Jungle Journalist’ Is Laid to Rest in Abia
By Charity Uwakwe
“Tears flowed freely in Arochukwu, Abia State, as family members, colleagues, traditional leaders, and admirers gathered to bid farewell to a renowned journalist and media entrepreneur, Mazi Onukwube ThankGod Ofoelue, popularly known as “Jungle Journalist.” Beyond the grief and emotional tributes, mourners celebrated a fearless media icon whose unconventional journalism and unwavering advocacy for Igbo culture left a lasting imprint on the Nigerian media landscape.”
“Popular journalist and founder of Jungle Journalist Media Limited, Mazi ThankGod Ofoelue, has been laid to rest in Abia State amid emotional tributes from family, media colleagues, Ohanaeze Youth Council, and community leaders who described him as fearless, selfless, and committed to truth and Igbo cultural values.”
Grief and emotion filled the atmosphere in Arochukwu, Abia State, as family members, friends, colleagues, and admirers gathered to bid farewell to a renowned journalist and founder of Jungle Journalist Media Limited, Mazi Onukwube ThankGod Ofoelue, popularly known as “Jungle Journalist.”
Although tears flowed freely during the funeral ceremony, mourners also celebrated the enduring legacy of a media practitioner widely respected for his fearless journalism, integrity, and commitment to the promotion of Igbo culture and values.
The late journalist was laid to rest at his country home in Ezi Nde Ukpabi, Ugbo Village, Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State.
Born on March 27, 1977, into the family of Ofoelue Nwangwu-Ivere Ijeoma of the Aro Kingdom, ThankGod Ofoelue lived a life devoted to journalism, cultural advocacy, and service to humanity. He died on February 23, 2026, after battling an illness. He was 48 years old.
Widely celebrated for his unconventional style of reporting, Jungle Journalist became a household name within Nigeria’s media space andacross Africa, earning several awards and recognition for his dedication to truth and fearless reporting.
Delivering the funeral homily, Resident Enyinnaya Okoroafor, President of the Arochukwu Branch of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, described death as “a process of returning home.”
He reminded Christians that they have been given the freedom to choose between good and evil, adding that those who choose righteousness would reunite with their Heavenly Father.
According to him, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ conquered death, which he described as “a temporary separation from the body.” He further urged the congregation to live upright Christian lives.
Children Pay Emotional Tributes
In a heartfelt tribute on behalf of the deceased’s children, Mazi ThankGod Sunshine Ofoelue described their father as a man deeply passionate about conversation, culture, politics, and storytelling.
“It is with a mixture of deep pride and profound sadness that we honour the life of our father, Mazi ThankGod Ofoelue,” the tribute read.
According to the family, the late journalist found joy in sharing stories about his childhood, university years, and life experiences, often leaving lasting lessons for his children.
They noted that his passion for truth and storytelling naturally shaped his career in journalism through Jungle Journalist Media Limited, where he dedicated himself to impactful reporting despite the toll it took on his health.
“Even with the demands of his work, he remained steadfast, guided by integrity and a deep sense of responsibility,” the tribute added.
The children further described him as loving, patient, fair, and wise, noting that he remained not only a father but also a friend, teacher, confidant, and pillar of support.
They also reflected on the strong bond he shared with their mother, describing the relationship as one of companionship, laughter, and mutual support.
“He may no longer be with us physically, but he lives on in our hearts, memories, and the values he instilled in us,” they stated.
Friend Mourns ‘Heavy Blow’
In another emotional tribute, a close family friend, Mazi Daniel Uwah Nnorom, popularly known as “Zulu” or “Ikemba Aro,” described the journalist’s death as a painful shock.
“The news of your death came to me as a heavy blow,” he lamented.
Nnorom recalled visiting the deceased during Christmas alongside his brother and expressed sadness that it became their final meeting.
“With tears in my eyes, I am not only crying because of your death but also because of the responsibilities you left behind,” he said.
Community Leaders, Colleagues React
In their separate remarks, Chief Emeka Charles Kalu (CKC), a senatorial aspirant for Abia North Senatorial District, and Sir Dave E. Imoko (Ugwuaro), retired Director of Media and Public Relations of Nzuko Aro Worldwide, described the deceased as a journalist who worked with conviction and integrity.
According to them, ThankGod Ofoelue paid his dues to the Arochukwu Kingdom and remained committed to truth throughout his journalism career.
They expressed deep sorrow over his passing and prayed for God to grant the family strength to bear the painful loss.
They further described his death as a huge loss to Nzuko Aro Worldwide, the Arochukwu Kingdom, and society at large.
Ohanaeze Youth Council Pays Tribute
Also speaking, the National President of the Ohanaeze Youth Council, Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, said the late journalist devoted his profession and energy to advocating for the cause of Ndigbo.
He described him as an unbiased journalist committed to promoting Igbo culture, traditions, and values.
“This young man lying lifeless here is a true definition of Igbo,” Igboayaka said.
“He believed strongly in the Igbo nation and fought tirelessly for the betterment of Ndigbo through his unconventional journalistic style.”
According to him, the deceased rendered selfless service to both journalism and the Igbo nation.
Speaking on behalf of the Ohanaeze Youth Council, Igboayaka stated that ThankGod Ofoelue fought a good fight and that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
He, however, lamented that the council was unaware of the journalist’s prolonged illness, stressing that the organisation would have done everything possible to support his recovery.
“It is unfortunate that we were unaware of his illness. Otherwise, we would have done everything possible to ensure he returned to his feet,” he added.
Among dignitaries present at the funeral were Eze Dr Eberechukwu Oji, represented by one of his media aides, Captain Eugene Okey Imuoh; Eze Ibom, Mazi Amos Kalu Oji; Mazi Ijiomah Obasi Ijiomah (Ochiwar); Mazi Chimeremeze Okigbo; Chief Njoku Usen; Prince Emeka Echeta; Professor Chukwu Dozie Okolo; Stella Iheanacho; Sister Erinma; Sister Nnaola Izuogu; Dr Edward Onyema; Emmanuel Nwazue; Nneka Torti; and several other distinguished guests.
