Murphy OJ Okeke was born on 3rd March 1971. He was a devoted husband, father, and an accomplished lawyer. OJ was a jolly good fellow. He passed away unexpectedly on January 12th 2016 at the age of 44 from a protracted illness.

OJ was born in Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria to Late Mr. Joseph Okeke and Mrs. Gladys Okeke. He was the third of six children. He graduated from the University of Benin with an LLB Honors and was admitted to the Nigerian Bar as a Barrister and Solicitor in 2000.

OJ was the Principal Counsel at Okeke, Okeke and Co. law practice until his death. His practice covered extensive areas of Civil, Criminal and Commercial Litigation as well as Alternative Dispute Resolution and Corporate Law. He was a very vibrant member of the Nigerian Bar Association having served the association in different capacities. He chaired the Nnewi Bar Association from 2012 to 2014 and was the Secretary from 2010 to 2012. He was also a member of the Eastern Bar Forum Constitution Drafting Committee of the NBA (2012), Member Election Tribunal Review Committee of the NBA (2012) and was until his death Secretary NBA Select/Appointment Committee.

OJ was also a Christian and a servant of his community. He served as the Registrar of the Anglican Church Ihiala Diocese until his death, and was also a member of the committee in charge of security in the Nnewi community.

OJ was amiable, sociable and charismatic. He was a people person who could relate and connect with anyone effortlessly. OJ loved life, loved family and valued friendship. He was also a very compassionate person who cared so much about others. His eclectic style derived from association with people of different culture and background as well as his love for travel and adventure.

He was also a problem-solver, a doer who often took on difficult and unwanted projects at work and around the home. If something needed to be accomplished, OJ would get it done.  

OJ is survived by his wife, UC; his 4 kids; his mom, siblings; Ifeanyi, Zee, Chineme, Uju and many extended family relatives.    

Murphy: We miss you terribly but are strengthened by our faith knowing that you are resting peacefully in the Lord.