From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
Famous author of ‘Village Headmaster’, Anezionwu Okoro, has died at the age of 94.
His first son, Chukwuma Aneziokoro, confirmed on Saturday in Enugu that his father died peacefully in his sleep in the early hours of Saturday in his house in Enugu.
“He died peacefully around 4am. He was a great man, caring father and husband. I will solely miss him,” he said.
Chairman, Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Enugu State, Zulu Ofolue, described his death as a sad one in the New Year.
Ofoelue, who visited the family of the writer with some of the members, described him as one of Nigeria’s most prolific writers who created stories that have inspired many writers and imparted deeply in Nigerian youths.
“He was also one of the first Africans to delve into the genre of Science Fiction.
“As a member and Grand Patron of ANA, Enugu Branch, Okoro was a glittering role model, motivator, counsellor, icon, support, leader and father.
“Even in his old age, he was deeply committed to the growth of ANA Enugu. We will miss him greatly. May his gentle soul rest in peace,” he said.
Born on May 17, 1929, Okoro is the author of many fictional books, including One Week One Trouble, The Village School and the Village Headmaster. Okoro had also written over 200 poems.
His recent publication was the translation of 10 Lamb’s Tales of Shakespeare to Igbo language, entitled, ‘Akuko Ufodu Shakespeare Koro’ in collaboration with another author, Nwobiara Chukwura.
Okoro, a native of Arondizuogu in Imo State, was the first dermatologist in West Africa and the second in Africa.
Okoro had his secondary school education at the Methodist College, Uzuakoli, Abia State, Nigeria.
He worked as a house surgeon, University College Hospital, Ibadan, from 1957 to 1959. He began his career as an academic in 1975 as a professor of medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
He is survived by a widow, Ese, gynaecologist and four children.