Pictures: Onitsha makes final preparations for the funeral of ex-UN representative, Chief Arthur Mbanefo

Final preparations have been made for the burial of Arthur Mbanefo, Nigeria's former Permanent Representative to the United Nations, who passed away at the age of 95, with all arrangements now in place.

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Mbanefo was a distinguished accountant and diplomat who also served as Pro-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, and Ahmadu Bello University, leaving a lasting legacy in the academic and diplomatic communities.

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Dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond are expected to attend the funeral ceremonies, according to Okunwa Mbanefo, the deceased's younger brother, who spoke during a visit to the family residence in Onitsha.

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The wake and burial rites will be conducted in strict adherence to Onitsha customs and traditions, reflecting the family's rich cultural heritage and honoring their ancestral roots.

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Okunwa Mbanefo, a New York-based accountant, shared insights into the family's history, revealing that the surnames "Iwegbu" and "Mbanefo" are linked to the same lineage, with "Mbanefo" adopted as a surname after their father's formal education.

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Their father, Aniegboka Mbanefo, had a total of 18 children, with 11 still alive today, while Chief Mbanefo, who will be laid to rest on Saturday, is among those who have passed away.

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Okunwa Mbanefo described his late brother as a man of unwavering integrity, guided by the principles of honesty, humility, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their social status or background.

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According to Okunwa, Arthur Mbanefo believed strongly in self-honesty and treated others with the same respect and kindness he desired for himself, never prioritizing wealth despite his comfortable financial situation.

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Mbanefo served as Nigeria's Ambassador to the United Nations from 1999 to 2004, a position he was appointed to by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and played key roles in various national assignments during his career.

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He made significant contributions to state creation efforts under the administration of Shehu Shagari and was a former president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, demonstrating his expertise and leadership in the field of accounting.

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Mbanefo worked with prominent accounting firms, including Akintola Williams, before establishing his own practice, and his professional accomplishments are a testament to his dedication and expertise.

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A wake-keeping ceremony is scheduled to take place at 9 p.m. on Friday, ahead of the burial on Saturday, with a large turnout of prominent personalities expected to pay their respects to the late elder statesman.