BIOGRAPHY OF CHIEF OWU U. UKOH (UKO OF NKPORO)
MARCH 2IST, 1936 - JULY 2ND, 2024
EARLY LIFE AND FAMILY BACKGROUND
The late Chief Owu Uko Ukoh, fondly known by his business name OTC, was born on March 2nd, 1956, in the historic Ndi Ogwo compound of Ndi-Nko, Nkporo, in Ohafia LGA, Abia State (Former Imo State). He was the son of the Late Ezeogo Uko Ukoh, of the prominent Ude Agu Ogwo lineage of Ndi Nko, Nkporo, and his mother, the late Ogbonne Uko Ukoh. Chief Owu Ukoh came into this world under the nurturing guidance of his parents who inculcated values of integrity, wisdom, and service, further building him into the man he
became. From a young age, Chief Owu showed promise and potential, growing up in a household steeped in the traditions of Nkporo. His father was a highly respected farmer and merchant, whose success in agriculture and trade provided a stable foundation for his family.
TRANSITION TO BUSINESS
Initially, Chief Owu dreamt of becoming a teacher. With an insatiable appetite for reading and learning, he felt a strong calling to the noble profession, seeing it as an avenue to impart knowledge and positively influence lives. However, when he came short of getting into the teacher's college, his father recognizing his son's potential in business encouraged him to pursue a different path. To prepare him for a life in commerce, Chief Owu was apprenticed to his cousin, an experienced Businessman, Late Chief Ibe Agbai Otah from Abiriba who introduced him to the world of business. He served his Master with loyalty and dedication, absorbing invaluable lessons that would serve as the foundation of his entrepreneurial career. Throughout his apprenticeship he was dedicated to learning the nitty-gritty of the business; Upon completion, his master settled and blessed him and he set out to launch his own business first in Calabar, Cotonou, Cameroon during the Nigerian Civil War, later relocating to Lagos and Port Harcourt, and finally settling in Aba. Chief Owu established The “Owu Trading Company Limited,” known as OTC in 1977 at 104 Jubilee Road, Aba, and Sunrise Food Company. One of Chief Owu's most notable legacies is his commitment to youth empowerment. Recognizing education as a powerful tool for advancement, he devoted substantial resources to helping young people gain access to learning opportunities. For those who were willing to pursue formal education, he covered school fees and provided necessary supplies. For others who preferred trades or vocational training, he facilitated their entry into apprenticeships, ensuring they acquired the skills needed to sustain themselves. Today, the impact of his human capital investment is visible throughout Nkporo, with many of Nkporo's accomplished sons and daughters attributing their success to Chief Owu's support and mentorship.
BUSINESS ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Chief Owu's business acumen, integrity, and relentless drive propelled his company into international markets, reaching as far as Europe, America, and Asia. In addition to being a businessman, his managerial abilities were unparalleled, evidence through his service in various companies. He served as an Executive Director of Golden Guinea Breweries in Umuahia, now in Abia State, from 1979 to 1983. Under his leadership, Golden Guinea experienced its peak performance. He was also a board member of NIGERCEM, also known as Nkalagu Cement, the first indigenous cement manufacturer in Nigeria. He was the first distributor of ST petroleum products in Africa and eventually became the sole importer of ST motor oil in Nigeria: an American brand of automotive aftermarket products, especially lubricants such as motor oil and motor oil additives. He was not only a businessman but also an altruist whose generosity knew no bounds. His philanthropic disposition touched the lives of countless individuals, both within Nkporo and beyond. He was more than a philanthropist; he was a true altruist, whose selfless giving and sacrificial support extended to anyone in need, regardless of background or status Chief Owu placed others' welfare above his own, a rare quality that endeared him to his community and earned him a lasting place in their hearts.
PHILANTHROPY AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Chief Owu was a philanthropist whose vision for Nkporo went beyond individual development and his generosity extended far beyond his immediate community; he was deeply invested in communal progress. His efforts to establish Nkporo Comprehensive Secondary School in 1975 were driven by his conviction that every child in Nkporo should have access to quality education. Not only did he advocate for the school's creation, but he also provided critical resources to support its operation. He donated his residence to house the school's first principal and supplied essential amenities, including a generator, a television set, and a full set of American Encyclopedias, equipping the Chemistry and Science laboratory. Additionally, he ensured that qualified teachers were assigned to the school, setting a high standard for academic excellence. He was instrumental in ensuring adequate health for the community by equipping the health center with medical and power supplies. As a family man, Chief Owu was deeply loved and cherished. Though he was his mother's only child, he cultivated a large and loving extended family. His home was a welcoming space where family, friends, and community members alike were treated with kindness and respect. Despite his success, he remained humble, embodying values of compassion and service. Chief's legacy of unity extended beyond his immediate family. He played a significant role in bringing together his maternal and paternal relatives, fostering a sense of togetherness and solidarity that bridged generational gaps. His home was a sanctuary of love and connection, and his influence united the Ude Agu Ogwo kindred and other affiliated families. He believed in the power of family and community and worked tirelessly to build strong bonds that have withstood the test of time. His contributions to the community extended far beyond his business and political accomplishments. He built the first hotel in Nkporo as well as the first fuel station in his hometown in Ndi-Nko Nkporo, thereby accentuating the rapid development of Nkporo land. These and many more of his community development acts propelled his receipt of the Chieftaincy Title conferred on him by his community. Known as a moral philosopher, he was a wise and thoughtful leader whose counsel was sought by people from all walks of life. His wisdom, humility, and insight made him a trusted advisor and mentor, particularly to those in challenging situations. He was an unwavering source of encouragement and guidance, fostering resilience and fortitude among those he advised.
POLITICAL CAREER
In the political sphere, Chief Owu was a force to be reckoned with. During the Second Republic, he was the chairman of his party NPP in the Old Bende Local Government Area. His political relevance and prowess were highlighted when Nnamdi Azikiwe (Zik of Africa), his political ally at the time, visited Nkporo Land. He also worked with the Late Governor Samuel Onunaka Mbakwe the former Governor of Imo State. Chief Owu's debut in politics was marked by unwavering integrity and commitment to uplifting mankind and the people of Nkporo. Through his political influence, he secured numerous opportunities and resources for his people, positioning
Still in the Second Republic, Chief Owu continued his political involvement by serving as the NPP party chairman for Arochukwu/Ohafia LGA. He also supported Dr. Ufere Torti of Ututu in Arochukwu LGA victory in his bid for the Umuahia Senatorial Seat under the NPP party at that time. However, the military coup of that era interrupted these political ambitions. Nevertheless, Chief Owu’s legacy in politics remains a testament to his dedication to Nkporo's representation and development. In the Third Republic, he was the Party Chairman of SDP for Ohafia LGA in which as delegate ensured the emergence of Moshood Abiola and Kingibe as the Flag Bearer in the most acclaimed election ever held in Nigeria. He was a member of the ABIA Movement, contributing his resources, experience and connections throughout its period in the creation of the Abia state with the likes of Late Ezeogo Akanu Ibiam and Late Ezeogo Anagha Ezikpe Who was the secretary of the movement as well as others. He was a founding member of The Nkporo Charter of Equity, tasked with ensuring that political and community developments are distributed evenly among the 8 villages of Nkporo. He was also a member representing Nkporo in the defunct agitation for the creation of Abiriba/Nkporo local government from the present Ohafia local government during General Abacha's military regime.
FAITH AND PHILOSOPHY
Chief Owu Ukoh adhered to Christian principles under the guidance of his uncle Chief Ndukwe Ukoh, an early adopter of Christianity in Nkporo; which equipped him to attend the Presbyterian Church School Nkporo Central. This upbringing strengthened his faith, which he held until his death. As a dedicated member of the Presbyterian Church, Chief Owu Ukoh actively contributed to its growth in Nkporo. He also embraced the principles and values of Rosicrucian Order, which includes principles such as reliance, respect for diverse beliefs or philosophical beliefs as long as they uphold human dignity, being faithful to your promises and commitments, and being generous to those in need or less fortunate.
FAMILY LIFE
Chief Owu was a devoted husband, blessed with two wives; Sarah Owu Ukoh and Catherine Owu Ukoh, who supported his endeavors and shared in his legacy. Together, they raised twelve biological children and are blessed with twenty grandchildren, all of whom continue to honor his memory and uphold his values.
Fondly called "Papa", Chief Owu was endeared to his children. He was a doting father, friend, and mentor. He had an instinctive sense of what his children needed, He seemed to know exactly what they needed, even before they did. He gave them the resources and support to chase their dreams and grow into the people they wanted to become. He wasn't overly strict, nor did he take a completely hands-off approach. Instead, he found this gentle balance; he let them figure things out on their own but was always there to steer them back if they lost their way. As they grew older, he remained their rock. Even as adults, they knew they counted on him: for advice, a reassuring word, or a quiet presence. He became their safety net, the one they could turn to no matter what. His love and steady support gave them confidence, knowing they had someone who believed in them completely. He was, and always will be, their foundation; the person who taught them that strength is often found in being steady, in listening, and in simply being there.
