By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu and Okorie Precious Ngozi
It was a moment of grief and tributes, Friday, 30th October 2026, at Abba, in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State as the late Madam Theresa Udumma Okoye was laid to rest in a solemn, but colourful ceremony, marked by prayers and deep reflection.
It was a gathering of dignitaries from all walks of life, including top government officials, clergy, family, loved ones and well-wishers, among others.
The funeral Mass which took place at St. Anthony’s Parish, Abba, brought together people who joined to celebrate the life and legacy of the deceased, who was highly praised for her priceless virtues and good work.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Prof. BAC Obiefuna drew inspiration from the biblical account of Mathew 11:29, of the crowd in Jerusalem, reminding Christians about the reality of death and the importance of living meaningful lives. He encouraged the faithful to embrace humility, shun division and cultivate unity and love, even as he described Mama Okoye’s passing on, as a moment for deep spiritual reflection.
Beyond the solemnity of the religious activities, the funeral brought together people whose lives had been touched by the deceased, with the atmosphere reflecting both sadness and gratitude. The family expressed appreciation to all who attended and supported them.
The ceremony was attended by prominent Catholic priests in Abba, Awka and surrounding cities, including the Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, who officiated at the wake; the Chancellor of the Diocese of Awka, Rev. Fr. Charles Ndubuisi; and Rev. Fr. Umezinwa, Vice-Chancellor of Peter University. Other priests were also present, with approximately 25 priests participating in the ceremony.
Among the distinguished guests was the Labour Party’s 2023 Presidential Candidate, Mr Peter Obi, who was represented by Prof. Patrick Obi and Mr Valentine Obienyem.
Other notable personalities included APGA’s Candidate for Anambra Central Senatorial Zone Election, Hon. Dozie Nwankwo (former member representing Njikoka, Anaocha and Dunukofia Federal Constituency); and the former Secretary to the Anambra State Government, Mr Oseloka Obaze.
Representatives of various Catholic communities and institutions also graced the occasion, including members of the Sacred Heart Chaplaincy, Ngozika Estate; St. Joseph’s Parish, UNIZIK Temporary Site; St. Matthew’s Parish, Amawbia; and St. Anthony’s Parish. The St. Anthony’s Choir, alongside members of the Catholic Women’s Organisations (CWO) from St. Joseph’s, Sacred Heart and St. Anthony’s, also participated.
The event further witnessed the presence of the alumni of Queen of the Rosary College, Onitsha (where the daughter of the deceased, Ngozi Okoye Lucy, was an alumna). People from Abba and Ekwulobia communities were also in attendance, as well as members of the Onitsha and Awka Dioceses. Representatives of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, government officials, in-laws, friends and associates of the deceased were equally in attendance.
Thanking their guests on behalf of her family, Lady Ngozi Okoye Lucy, Deputy State Chief of Protocol (DSCOP) to the Anambra State Government and daughter of the deceased, expressed profound appreciation and heartfelt gratitude to everyone who honoured the family with their presence.
She acknowledged several dignitaries and guests, recognising their various contributions and the respect they demonstrated towards her late mother, thanking them specially and giving them the recognition they deserved. She also thanked God for the successful funeral Mass and what she described as the overwhelming show of love and support from family, friends, associates and well-wishers.
Fides reports that the impressive turnout and heartfelt tributes reflected the impact Mrs Theresa Udumma Okoye had on the lives of those around her, as family, friends, religious communities and associates gathered to honour a life remembered for faith, family values and devotion to God.
