Nigeria, Dec. 24 -- Renowned Nigerian diplomat, Christopher Mbanefo, is dead, his family has announced.

Mr Mbanefo, a professional accountant and educational administrator, passed away at the age of 95.

"With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life of extraordinary service, the Mbanefo family announces the passing of our beloved patriarch, Chief Arthur Christopher Izuegbunam Mbanefo, Odu III of Onitsha, who was called to the Lord this December," Victor Mbanefo, his son, said in a statement obtained by PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday.

Victor said the family would soon communicate Mr Mbanefo's burial arrangements. The statement did not indicate when and where Mr Mbanefo died as well as cause of his death.

Born 11 June 1930, Mr Mbanefo...