Family members, relatives, friends, associates and well-wishers are expected to converge today on Obikwele community in Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State for the final rites of passage of Chief (Mrs.) Fredritha Okumagba, who passed away at the age of 77.
A Service of Songs was earlier held in her honour at Christ Crusaders Church, Warri, where mourners from different walks of life gathered to celebrate the life, service and enduring legacy of the late matriarch.
Described as a virtuous woman who touched many lives through her generosity, compassion and service to God and humanity, Chief Mrs. Okumagba, fondly known as “Mummy Karofy,” left behind memories that her family and beneficiaries say will continue to inspire generations.
Among those who have publicly acknowledged her profound impact is Mr. Nkem Nwaeke, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.
According to Nwaeke, his relationship with the late matriarch began in 1994 when he met her at Orerokpe while undertaking his Industrial Training with Delta Broadcasting Service, DBS Warri.
He recalled that Mrs. Okumagba took him in as a foster son and subsequently played a significant role in his life, supporting him through his university education, National Youth Service Corps programme, employment and marriage.
“She assisted me greatly through my university education, my NYSC, my getting a job and my marriage. She stood by my wife and I with love, prayers, and unwavering support. Her counsel and kindness left an indelible mark on our lives,” Nwaeke said.
He noted that the late matriarch’s love extended beyond him to his wife, Mary, and their children, as she remained committed to their welfare, growth and happiness.
In a joint tribute, Nkem and Mary described the deceased as “more than a mother” to their family, celebrating her as a devout wife, accomplished nurse, philanthropist, community builder, entrepreneur, counsellor, custodian of peace and mother to many.
They said her home was open to everyone, while her life was characterised by compassion, dignity, faith and generosity.
“Mummy Karofy was a woman of unwavering faith and conviction, a vessel of God’s love and compassion, humble, gracious, and God-fearing, a beacon of hope and light to all who knew her, a quintessential mother and nurturer of destinies, a mother to the motherless, a shelter to the stranded, and a custodian of peace and unity,” they stated.
The Nwaekes further described her as a tireless community builder and voice for the voiceless, noting that she was particularly supportive of widows, youths and the less privileged.
They also recalled her years of service as a nurse, saying she healed people “with both hands and heart,” while also distinguishing herself as a visionary entrepreneur, mentor and advocate for a better society.
According to them, her legacy of generosity, service and commitment to community development will outlive her.
“While we mourn the departure of such a great woman in our lives, we thank God for her impact and legacy of service which will continue to inspire our world,” they stated.
They added that Mrs. Okumagba would be remembered not only for her generosity and commitment to development but also for the motherly role she played in the lives of countless people beyond her biological children.
“May our Omnipresent God grant her soul good rest in His bosom. Amen,” the tribute concluded.
As family, friends and associates gather to bid her farewell, the late Chief Mrs. Fredritha Okumagba leaves behind a legacy of motherhood, service, compassion, faith and humanity that her loved ones say will remain indelible.
