Ilonzo rewards loyalists with land gifts, others, unveils mausoleum in Onitsha

Lawrence Nwimo, Awka

First female artist in old Eastern Nigeria and respected Anambra herbalist, Chief Dr. Flora Ilonzo, has rewarded loyalists with land gifts and other incentives for their dedication and hard work in support of her career.

Ilonzo, the founder of Centre for Herbal Medicine and Centre for Psychic and Healing Administration (CPHA), Awka, gifted parcels of lands to two of her cousin brothers, Pastor Chetachukwu Chude, son of late Alphonsus Chude; and Mr Onyebuchi Ndulue.

Also among the beneficiaries was a northerner, Mohammed Sani, who was picked up by Ilonzo when he was aged three, after the loss of his mother. Sani was groomed by Ilonzo alongside Mr Emeka Friday, another beneficiary, to become her darling personal assistants.

Others she empowered were her cousin brother, Chief Onyekwe Onyido, who received N21 million to support his induction into the prestigious Ozo title in the Onitsha ancient kingdom; and her cousin sister, Mrs. Caroline Eke, gifted N1.5 million to facilitate her sons’ overseas education. She also presented N1 million to her cousin, Barr. Chigbo Ogwudibe, as a token of support. 

Recalling her other philanthropic gestures, Ilonzo said she had in the past gifted landed properties to eight of her staff, noting that it was her unique ways of celebrating good works and appreciating God.

“I built a technical school in 1982 and gave all the students a scholarship, I liberated women from forceful marriage, built houses for about six widows, and trained their children,” she added.

To mark the occasion during a Thanksgiving service at Our Saviour’s Church, Onitsha, Ilonzo unveiled a mausoleum in Onitsha, where, she said, would be her “final resting home,” when she passes away.

According to her, “I’ve built this place as my final resting ground because it’s where I wish to lie in eternal peace. I desire to be buried here, and I request that my wishes be respected. 

“I want to avoid any potential disputes or controversies surrounding my burial location. This is my home, and I’d like to rest here forever,” she said.

At 79, Ilonzo’s desire to be buried in a specific location may be linked to her past marital ties in Igbo-Etiti, Ukehe, and Uke, respectively, suggesting a deep-rooted connection to the area.