High Chief Engr. Emmanuel Onochie Monyei, Odogwu Abi of Akwukwu Igbo, Delta State, Nigeria, passed away on December 25, 2024. Born on April 6, 1959, in Akwukwu Igbo, Delta State, Nigeria, Emmanuel’s life was marked by his unwavering faith, his dedication & love to family, and a profound commitment to his community. He never met a stranger and will be remembered as a jokester and for his infectious sense of humor.

Manny, as he was known in his industry, worked as the CEO of his entrepreneurial tax engineering business. However, as a young man, he began his career as a clerk at African Continental Bank in Nigeria. Shortly thereafter, he emigrated to Los Angeles, California, USA and started his career all over again, this time at Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream Parlor. Through sheer tenacity and perseverance, he gained full-time employment as a security guard and later a law clerk while simultaneously pursuing his education. Emmanuel used his education and his people skills to navigate corporate America and successfully landed a role in one of the country's largest finance companies known as Deloitte & Touche, where he worked for a decade. With Deloitte, he would hone the skills and expertise in cost segregation that would allow him to set out and eventually open his own business, Construction Engineering Tax Services, LLC. He successfully ran this business for over 30 years being one of the few engineers in his field in the entire country. During this time, Emmanuel travelled almost all 50 states creating an amazing network of engineers and companies that truly admired his work and proficiency.

Although Emmanuel worked very hard as an entrepreneur, he prioritized building his community in Los Angeles and back home in Akwukwu-Igbo, Delta State. Emmanuel spent several years involved in various organizations that provide charity and support to his local community. He was a member of the Aniocha Oshimili Association of Southern California and served on the board in various leadership capacities. He was also a member of the Akwukwu Village Association of Southern California.

Emmanuel became a pillar in his local community as he emcee’d numerous events in Los Angeles. Emmanuel had impeccable stage presence and could make the whole room burst into laughter with jokes and crazy dance moves. His work as an emcee also served as an extension of the support he showed his friends and family. Emmanuel supported friends and family with his presence as much as he could. He valued community and showing up for those he cared about.

As a traditionalist, Emmanuel valued the ways of our forefathers and instilled the importance of Nigerian heritage and culture into his children as well. In 2014, on Christmas Day, Emmanuel was crowned the Odogwu Abi of Akwukwu Igbo. This high chief position was a great honor and he was proud to hold a position of distinction. His selflessness and generosity touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impact on the communities he called home.

Emmanuel's legacy is not only one of professional accomplishments and community service but also as a dedicated family man. He was a loving husband of 29 years to his beloved wife, Josephine Monyei, a cherished father to Allison (Tony) Monyei Whaley, Christian Pereira, Patricia Monyei, Monique Monyei and Elizabeth Monyei, and dedicated stepfather to Alexander Kayode. His three grandchildren, Justin, Naomi, and Kenya brought immeasurable joy to his life, creating a legacy of love that will endure through generations. His loving spirit is also carried on by his sisters, Mary and Agatha, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Preceding him in peace were his parents, Patrick and Bernice; his brother, Victor Monyei, and his sister, Onyebuchi Monyei.

Manny's life was a testament to the values of family, love, generosity, and community, and he will be deeply missed by all who loved him and had the privilege of knowing him. As Odogwu, he was well respected and a good example to the youth of never forgetting where home truly is. He valued high education and motivated his children to pursue their dreams and work hard while doing so. He never wavered his ability to provide for his family. He was a man of high caliber, exquisite taste, and good humor. He never hesitated to put a smile on someone’s face. We appreciate all the wonderful memories he left us with and will continue to share the story of his beautiful life so his memory can live on.

Rest in Eternal peace.

Odogwu Abi! 

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