Okonkwo is the guardian of Ikemefuna, who lives with Okonkwo's family and sees him as a second father. Okonkwo has affection for him, but he does not show it so as not to appear weak before the other members of the tribe. So much so, that when the Oracle determines that Ikemefuna must die, Okonkwo is the one who kills him despite not having the obligation to do so, to demonstrate this strength to the rest.