By Regina Igwebuike
St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, Amawbia was filled to capacity on May 16 as members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and well-wishers gathered for a Mass of commiseration with Chief Victor Ike Oye, immediate past National Chairman of the party, over the passing of his mother-in-law, Nne Okwukwe Margaret Nwofor, Adighinije.
The late matriarch, aged 103, was the mother of Iyom Mary Oye, wife of Chief Oye.
The solemn occasion drew a host of dignitaries, including the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, the current APGA National Chairman, Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Okoye (Ozo Mkpuluobi Amawbia), the Mayor of Awka South, and the traditional ruler of Amawbia, HRM Igwe Sunday Uchenna Okonkwo, Okpaligwe of Amawbia.
The funeral Mass was celebrated by the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor. In his remarks, Chief Oye expressed gratitude to God for granting the deceased a fulfilled life of 103 years. He attributed her longevity to the care and support she received from her family.
“We thank the Bishop of Awka, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, for celebrating this Mass. We also thank the Cardinal Bishop of Ekwulobia, who sent Rev. Fr. Prof. Anthony Chiegboka to represent him,” Oye said.
He extended appreciation to the parish priest and clergy of St. Matthew’s, as well as priests from St. Joseph and St. Edward parishes and the religious sisters present from various locations.
Oye also acknowledged the presence of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, APGA’s national leadership, local government officials, and traditional leaders, singling out Igwe Okonkwo for his support. “I pray that the Igwe lives long and continues to lead Amawbia in peace and progress,” he added.
He thanked all who attended the funeral and prayed for God’s blessings upon them.
The turnout underscored the late Adighinije’s standing in the community and the respect accorded her family within APGA and beyond.
Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
