By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu, Nonso Samson and Ebube Edieh
Reverend Sister Miriam Cynthia Nneka Oliagba (Adadioramma) of the Congregation of Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy on Friday, 19th April 2024, at Umuejiofor Ezeawulu, Nibo, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State buried her late father, Mr. Bartholomew Ifesinachi Oliagba (a.k.a. Amamfa Osinachi Adinma, Munwa n’onwem) who died at the age of 83 years.
The burial ceremony which started with a Vigil Mass on Thursday, 18th of April, had many priests, religious, relatives, friends, sympathizers, and well-wishers, especially Sisters of Congregation of Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy in attendance.
Delivering a homily during the Vigil Mass, the former Cathedral Administrator, Rev. Fr. Patrick Amobi Chukwuma, called on God’s people to strive to live for others, as well as ensure that they were remembered for their good deeds when they would be long gone rather than evil deeds they committed when they were here on earth, saying that the late patriarch lived a life worthy of emulation.
He enjoined his children to make sure they worked towards sustaining their father’s legacies by living a more rewarding life. Fr. Chukwuma noted that the late Mr. Bartholomew Oliagba was known for his pious nature and also for his love for the advancement of God’s word and the Mother Church.
In a homily during the Concelebrated Eucharistic Celebration held at St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Nibo, in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State on Friday 19th of April 2024, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, His Lordship Most Reverend Paulinus Ezeokafor, described the late Pa Oliagba as a man of character, a lover of God and the Universal Church, saying that it was the Will of God that he would be leaving at this material time, urging all to pray for the quick repose of his soul.
‘After thanking God for his life, we will continue praying for him to have eternal rest. We owe him that. Do your bit while on earth. Do great things. Above all, fear God. Live a Christ like life while chasing your dreams. Always think about the good things God did for you. Do all you can to be at your peace with your neighbour and creator,’ Bishop Ezeokafor exhorted.
He appreciated Reverend Sister Miriam Cynthia Nneka Oliagba for her steadfastness and love for her vocation, noting that the late Pa Oliagba had always been proud of her.
Appreciating those who attended the Funeral Mass, the Second son of the deceased, Mr. Ugochukwu Oliagba, thanked all, especially Bishop Ezeokafor, priests and religious, who came from far and wide to mourn with them.
Speaking shortly after the interment, the first son of the deceased, Mr Chris Okechukwu Oliagba, described his late dad as irreplaceable.
‘Your good deeds can never be forgotten in our hearts, you are one among the best. May our mother Mary and all the angels and saints of God in heaven intercede on your behalf so that almighty God will accept you in His bosom where joy and happiness never cease. Adieu Papa, Adieu Osinachi Adinma,’ he concluded.
Earlier, the first daughter of the deceased, Reverend Sister Miriam Cynthia Nneka Oliagba said her late dad taught her generosity and philanthropy.
‘He taught me how to assist the poor, the needy and the orphans. He taught me everything good. How to care for the less privileged and the destitute. He taught us the true meaning of unconditional love for others.
We will carry his precious lessons always. Papa, you have departed but your kindness, your gentle spirit, your intuitiveness, your kindheartedness, your love, and eyes have all been replicated in us. We will forever cherish your memories and hope for your children and wife in this difficult time of parting. Today, we will miss you ever so more and hope that we will meet again
‘He will be sorely missed by all, especially my humble self. I had a wonderful father who cared for every living thing in and around him. I ask God to accept him in His kingdom. Amen,’ she prayed.
Condolences continued on Saturday, 20th April 2024. The burial ceremonies lasted Thursday, Friday, Saturday and climaxed on Sunday with an outing Mass.
Receiving of condolences, displays by different cultural groups, CMO and CWO songs and dance beat, sharing of gifts to priests, religious and all those who came to identify with the family formed the highpoints of the occasion.
