Reps Member Dibiagwu, NDDC Rep Uchegbu, Other Dignitaries Grace Burial of Okebata’s Mother
By Kelechi Ugo
The serene community of Umuokwu, Aborshi Autonomous Community, Izombe in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, was agog with the presence of political heavyweights, traditional rulers, and notable dignitaries as they gathered to pay their final respects to the late Mrs. Justina Okebata.
The funeral service, held at Emmanuel Anglican Church, was officiated by His Lordship, Rt. Rev. Dr. Ottih, the Bishop on the Lake. Preaching on the topic "When is Convenient to Die?", the Bishop emphasized the unpredictability of death, urging believers to always remain spiritually prepared. He comforted the grieving family, encouraging them to stay steadfast in their faith, for God cares in all seasons of life.
Leading the entourage of dignitaries was the House of Representatives Member for Ohaji/Egbema/Oguta/Oru-West Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Eugene Okechukwu Dibiagwu. He described the late matriarch as “a great mother who, alongside her husband, worked diligently to build a noble family.” Reflecting on the loss, Dibiagwu noted the tragic reality that her son, Inspector Chikadibia Okebata, is mourning both parents within the space of one year. “It’s a time to reflect deeply on life and its fragility, yet not question God, who gives and takes,” he said.
In his address to the family, Dibiagwu offered words of comfort, reminding them of the Christian hope of resurrection and eternal reunion in Christ.
The event witnessed a large turnout of dignitaries from across the state and beyond, including:
Hon. Kyrian Uchegbu – NDDC Representative, Imo State
Hon. Henry Okafor – Commissioner for Niger Delta Affairs, Imo State
Hon. Marcel Amadioha – Executive Chairman, Ohaji/Egbema LGA
Mrs. Elizabeth – Executive Vice Chairman, Ohaji/Egbema LGA
HRH, High Chief B. M. Nnanna – Eze-elect, Aborshi Autonomous Community
Hon. Barr. F. N. Dibiagwu – Former Commissioner for Special Duties, Imo State
HRH, Eze Dele Ogidigbo – Traditional Ruler, Nkwesi Kingdom
Hon. Mrs. Nkeiruka Ihesie – ISOPADEC Commissioner
Hon. Gideon Meffor – Senior Adviser to the Governor on ADALPAM
Hon. Chima Okwu Osundu
Hon. Sunday Miller Irokanulo
Hon. Adonis (Ochuariri)
and many other friends, relatives, and sympathizers who came to honor the memory of a mother whose life was marked by discipline, resilience, and compassion.
The late Mrs. Justina Okebata's legacy lives on through her children and the values she instilled in them. Her passing is a significant loss not only to the Okebata family but to the entire Aborshi community.
