By Uche Enem
The remains of Late Pa Nkemdilim Emmanuel Ofomata, who died at the age of 82, was on Thursday, 1st August 2019, interred in his compound at Nanka.
The interment started with a Holy Mass led by the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most. Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor. Delivering the homily, the bishop encouraged the deceased to keep up with the faith they have built in God. He told them that they should focus more on the positive side of losing a loved one rather than the negative side or the joy they have received from their late father rather than focusing more on his death. He praised the family for their faith in God to see that one of their children became a priest. He told hem that faith of many years shouldn’t be allowed to shatter within few seconds. The Bishop encouraged them to keep abreast with Nigerian News and be ready for the end times signs
Late Nkemdilim Ofomata was born in 1937 and received his Primary School Education at Isigwunwagu Central School Ifite Nanka. Later, he went to Gboko, and became an apprentice and later learnt carpentry job which made him to relate well in Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba and Tiv.
When he received the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist in 1950, he got married in 1968 to his first wife and later in 1974, he wedded his second wife, Maria who blessed him with eight children.
Until his death, Pa Ofomata was a member of CMO, Choir, Catholic Caritas of Nigeria and many more. His generosity made him to donate 60% of his lands to the work of God.
Pa Ofomata who is fondly called “Nna anyi Anaekwu Ochie’ is survived by his wife, Maria Ofomata and his eight children (Uzoamaka Michael, Johnmary Ofomata, Ginika Nwachukwu, Emmanuel Ofomata, Kenechukwu Ofomata, Onyedika Ofomata, Anthony Ofomata, Chibuike Ofomata)
In his vote of thanks, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Ofomata, thanked all who were present at the event. He thanked the Bishop, the priests, friends, relatives and well-wishers for their prayers and support to him. He thanked the Parish Priest of St. Anthony’s Nanka, Rev. Fr. Christian Umeojilinnaka and the Central Pastoral Council, for their love and care.
Other highlights of the event include dance and condolences.
