DEPUTY GOVERNOR EMETU LEADS DIGNITARIES TO BID FAREWELL TO LATE MRS. NGWABA, HIGHLIGHTS LEGACY OF FAITH, SERVICE, AND SELFLESSNESS IN NSIRIMO

The Deputy Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, on behalf of the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has led top government officials, political leaders, and other dignitaries to pay their last respects to Late Mrs. Nkechinyere Justina Ngwaba (née Oparaocha), who passed on at the age of 72. He described her as a virtuous woman whose life embodied faith, humility, and selfless service.

Delivering a condolence message, Engr. Emetu conveyed the sympathies of Governor Alex Otti and the good people of Abia State to the Honourable Member representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency and Chairman, House Committee on Financial Crimes, Rt. Hon. Ginger Obinna Onwusibe, as well as the entire Ngwaba and Oparaocha families.

“We gather with heavy hearts, yet with gratitude to God for a life well lived. Mama Nkechinyere was a woman of deep faith, compassion, and humility, whose presence brought warmth and unity to her family and community. Her life exemplified love, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of others,” the Deputy Governor stated.

He noted that although her passing has created a profound void, her legacy of integrity, kindness, and devotion to family and community will continue to inspire generations. According to him, her quiet sacrifices strengthened the bonds of unity and laid a foundation of values that will guide those she left behind.

Drawing comfort from the Holy Bible, the Deputy Governor cited Revelation 14:13, assuring the bereaved that those who die in the Lord are blessed, will rest from their labours, and that their good deeds will continue to speak for them.

He urged the family to remain strong and take solace in the cherished memories of their mother, praying that God grants them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

In his homily, Rev. Fr. Kalu Luke Alicho admonished Christians to live upright lives, love their neighbours as themselves, and adhere to God’s commandments. He emphasized that every good deed attracts divine reward and reminded the faithful that life continues beyond death.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Rt. Hon. Ginger Onwusibe described the deceased as a hardworking and caring mother figure whose life positively impacted many beyond her immediate family. He expressed appreciation to Governor Alex Otti for facilitating the rehabilitation of the road leading to Umuerim Nsirimo at short notice, which ensured ease of access for mourners. He also reaffirmed the continued support of the people of Nsirimo for the present administration.

The funeral service was held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Nsirimo, Umuahia South Local Government Area, followed by her interment at Umuerim Nsirimo. The event drew a large gathering of family members, friends, associates, and well-wishers who came to celebrate a life of purpose and enduring impact.

Among dignitaries present were the Member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, Hon. Obi Aguocha; the Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Austin Okezie; the Member representing Isiala Ngwa North State Constituency, Hon. Ugochukwu Iheonunekwu; the Member representing Umuahia South State Constituency, Hon. Emeka Obioma; the Honourable Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Dr. Matthew Ekwuribe; the Mayor of Umuahia South, Hon. Chinwendu Enwereuzo; the Mayor of Isiala Ngwa North, Hon. Innocent Uruakpa; as well as traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other dignitaries.

Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State
April 17, 2026