Mrs Oribi Eugene Wakama

Even though I had not seen mummy for a very long time, I remember with fondness the way she welcomed me into the family when I was at FGGC Abuloma with Tonye and Nene! Many happy visits to 'number 9' where she fed and watered me and treated me as another daughter. So long ago but I have never forgotten!
Rest in peace mummy 🙏

I never met you as a teacher but I'm told you were the mother that students runs to as the guidance & councillor for the confused, the mother who hardly used came but kind words seasoned with grace to shapen, sharpen and straighten the destinies of her students and children whose parents she never met. I met you about ten years ago and you showed me forthrightness with kind, calm but firm words whenever we meet or speak on phone. You took me as your son; you told me stories of how you weave and blend your children together. A very appreciative woman you were in your lifetime; small gift but you always appreciated beyond measures. I'm glad for the vacuum that my knowing you filled in my life and without you, the history of my years in Port Harcourt wouldn't have been completed.
May your soul continue to rest in peace.
Ayo Usikalu & Associates (Estate Surveyors & Valuers).

TO A BELOVED MOTHER. ORIBI-A befitting name that have reflected the character you've been on Earth for you've successful practiced God's love by touching lives positively of which I and my family are major beneficiary, before I met you in person I and my siblings the family of Tamunoirinaomie Samuel Imbu enjoyed your care but when I met you I became your favorite, you saw in me what many couldn't see you encourage and supported me to success, your corrections, council, encouragement and strong memory that preserves history which you've always share with me has contributed in making me the father I am today. Though I will continue to miss you but am sure your input in my journey in life will keep me going, without doubt, I will miss your calls for us to talk on issues and advice such love and trust doesn't come easily. Dwell and rest in the presence of your maker. Mr Jeremiah Imbu and family.

Tamuno oribi boima!!!~Your life and legacy never hid the goodness of God.
It revealed it!!!

Where do I even start?

The memories are timeless...

The earliest would be how everyone got excited when you returned from the University of Ibadan during the holidays, and how I called you "Mrs. Mummy" (a name that initially hurt but later stuck because of your humour).

Growing up in a home where you made no distinction between your biological children, relatives and friends, I did not even know who my biological siblings were until my early teenage years. You raised us all as one, with the same love, care and discipline.

Anyone can be called "Mummy", but you lived up to the name in every sense — through your sacrifices, your strength and your selfless devotion. That speaks volumes about your deep love for the family.

After we last spoke, I had that dream. It all makes sense now that those were your final words to me. Now that you have gone to be with the Lord Almighty, I thought the dream would give me closure. Yet, it still feels so unreal that I will never again hear your voice calling out, "Abùró!!!"
I still instinctively find myself going to check on you before I leave the family home.

If wishes could bring you back, we would have one last ride with you back home to us. But God loves you more and has called you to Himself.

Goodnight, Mama dearest. I mourn, but not without hope. You are now free from all sorrow and in a better place, resting peacefully in the bosom of our Lord Almighty.

Your legacy lives on in me until Resurrection Morning, when we shall meet to part no more.

Dein na mu

Your Abùró

SEGUN ABBE MEMORIAL FOUNDATION (SAMFON). The news of the passing onto glory of our beloved mother and SAMFON Family member, Mrs. Oribi Eugene Wakama, was received with shock. She was very active and committed to the visions of the Widows and widowers' ministry. Her support and contributions would be greatly missed.
We pray the Holy Spirit to comfort her children and everyone mourning her passing, including the SAMFON Family.
May her loving soul Rest in Peace in the Bosom of the LORD, in Jesus Christ's name. Amen
Prof. B E Ahiauzu,
SAMFON Coordinator,
On behalf the SAMFON Family of Christ Church.

Tribute to mummy
Gone, but sorely missed .
Yes, I will call you mummy even in death because I started calling you mummy way back in port Harcourt in the early 80s . When I didn't know many people then, as sophisticated as you were then, you never looked down on me on my many visits to your residence at no 9, William jumbo street, GRA. Port Harcourt, as well as on your visits to us at shell residential area, Port Harcourt. You were a wonderful, selfless, God fearing and a pleasant person while you were on this side of the divide. it's indeed very hard to say goodbye to you mummy when I remember your many phone calls you initiated as a caring mother asking about our wellbeing. Thank you so much. Job cursed the day he was born, (job 3:1-8), but I bless the day I first encountered you and the subsequent days thereafter. For now I hold back my tears so I can articulately say a very heart broken goodbye to you mummy. Rest in peace in Jesus name. (Chukwuemeke S Onichabor.)

TRIBUTE TO A FRIEND
“A FRIEND IN NEED, IS A FRIEND IN DEED”

I met Mrs Oribi Wakama in 1957 at Archdeacon Crowther Memorial Girls School Elelenwa, whose motto is “Fidelis in Minimis” meaning: Faithfulness in little things, uprightness, truthfulness, trustworthiness. These virtues were ingrafted, inbuilt in anyone who passed through the School, by the missionary Expatriates who ran the School. She was a year ahead of me. We all past out of it, went our separate ways to improve ourselves academically. Got married.

The Biafra/Nigeria war broke up. I married late Sir (Dr) George I. Ogan who was working in Delta Clinic of Shell Nigeria as a medical doctor. Shell evacuated its Clinic and Staffs to Owerri. The civil war ended and we returned to Port Harcourt to find our house at Emeyel Street GRA II, a big kitchen of the Army. We no longer had a home. The Military Government appointed late Dr Ogan as a member of the Rehabilitation Committee and housed us in Catering Rest House Chalet 7 now called Delta Hotel, Port Harcourt.

The Unexpected happened, there began a horrifying sound of terrific explosions from the Nigeria Armoury stored in warehouses of some companies along Azikiwe Road Port Harcourt. Bullets, Scrapes etc were flying all around into adjoining streets and into the Catering Rest House where we lived.
My late husband was an Olympic Silver medalist in Triple Jump. So in 1970 he was invited to represent the Country in the Commonwealth Games Edinburgh. He was not around. On that fateful day, I went to town to buy some drugs. My two daughters were alone with their cousin, Priscilla whom they called “Sisilia” they could not pronounce Priscilla well. When the explosions started, she tied one of them at her back and carried the other in front and ran out with them. My daughter she carried in front fell off her hand could not bend down to pick her because of the stampede of the people running for safety. She continued to Aba Road.

A good Samaritan woman picked up my second daughter from the ground and ran to Mile One, Diobu. My late friend Mrs Oribi Wakama, was providentially positioned in the same place with that woman, carrying my daughter, who was crying calling, “Sisilia, Mummish”. My friend was familiar with these names and the woman was shouting also, saying I picked up this child at Forces Avenue near William Jumbo Street. On hearing this Oribi approached the woman and identified my daughter, who was crying calling “Sisilia, Mummish”. She told the good Samaritan woman that woman she knew the child's parents and she immediately handed her over to my friend Oribi Wakama.

There was no kidnapping, no child trafficking then if not I would have lost my daughter. This unknown woman and my late friend Oribi Wakama saved my little daughter of age two.

Mrs Oribi Wakama (nee Chieduko) was a friend in need and a friend indeed. God bless her soul.

​My husband returned from the Commonwealth Games, was told this mysterious story. He got a plot at Evo Road, he built it, completed or not we moved in, bushy as it was, no neighbours, we lived in fear, for the broadest, widest cross-road there, was the meeting point of robbers daily. It was from frying pan to fire.

We decided to divide our valuables, documents and boxes into twos, sent one to late Gomba Osarrallor and wife who lived in Shell residential Area, the other to Mr & Mrs Eugene Wakama at William Jumbo Street, Old G.R.A for safety until Evo Road GRA II was safe and inhabitable.

She faithfully kept my belongings. Nothing missing. "A friend who stood closer than a brother".

​Above all these, and more importantly, she kept her allegiance and faith to Jesus Christ alone, come what may. No shifting. She faithfully kept what she was taught and believed and lived in the "LIGHT" until her last days on earth. How Committed.

Adieu, my trusted and Capable friend. May your Soul ever remain with the Lord in the Presence of God.

​DAME, IRITARI CAROLINE OGAN (Justice of Peace)

​My memories of Mummy "Oribi" began in 1966, when her family moved into our block of flats at 11 Egbunine Street in the European Quarters, now 11 Ernest Ikoli st, old Gra, Port-Harcourt. I was just ten years old then, and I vividly recall how beautiful she was—a devoted mother of three who quickly became a cherished friend to my mother, Christiana. That special friendship endured for decades until my mother passed away twenty years ago.
​To my siblings and me, Mummy was a loving, watchful figure who always looked out for us. Later, during our teenage years, we knew better than to speed past her home on William Jumbo Street—lest our "fine" driving skills be exposed to our parents!
​She was deeply loved, and her warmth and humor will live on in our hearts forever.
​— Sokman

TRIBUTE TO MY BELOVED MUM

Mummy,

How do I say goodbye to a woman whose love has been such a significant part of my life? Even now, I struggle to believe that you are truly gone. Your passing taught me the fleeting yet final nature of death. The loss came as a shock, and my heart still cannot accept that I will never again hear your voice, hold your hand or see your beautiful smile.

That morning, you asked why I was not wearing a white dress. I heard your words, but I did not understand what they meant. I never imagined that they would become part of my final memories of you. I was so sure you would pull through, as you had done so many times before. I held on to the hope that you would come back to us, and I was not prepared for the moment when I had to let you go.

Yet, as I reflect on those final moments, I realise that perhaps you were ready. Your strong and unwavering faith in Christ remained evident even in your pain. While we were hoping and praying for more time, you were quietly placing yourself in God's hands. Even at the end, your life pointed us back to the God you loved and served so faithfully.

Although the pain of losing you is still very real, I am deeply grateful to God for the honour of being your daughter. I will forever cherish the lessons you taught me about unconditional forgiveness, quiet generosity and steadfast faith.

You were so much more than a mother to us. You were our matriarch, prayer warrior and source of comfort, always reminding us to love one another, forgive one another and remain united as a family. You cared deeply about each of us, checked on our children and made everyone feel valued.

Your generosity was quiet and selfless. You helped people without seeking recognition and taught us that true kindness comes from the heart. Through your words and actions, you showed us how to live with compassion, humility and love.

I will also remember the little things that made you uniquely you. You had a nickname for almost everyone, and you had a way of making each person feel special. I was your "Gbam Lady", your slim lady!

That name still makes me smile. Where exactly was the slimness? Yet you said it with such affection that I would not exchange it for anything. It was a special part of our bond, and I will treasure it always. Oh, Mummy, how I wish I could hear you call me that one more time!

Your absence has left a space that no one can fill. We will miss your calls, prayers, concern, laughter and unmistakable presence. We will miss the comfort of knowing that you were there, watching over us and holding the family together.

Even in our grief, however, we thank God for your life, your sacrifices, your love and the beautiful legacy you have left behind. You taught us that family is precious and that love must be protected through forgiveness, unity and care.

By God's grace, we will carry those lessons forward. We will strive to preserve the love and unity you valued so deeply, support one another and keep your memory alive. We will tell our children and grandchildren about the wonderful woman you were, so that the story of your life and the impact of your love will continue through generations.

As painful as it is to let you go, I find comfort in knowing that you have finished your race, kept the faith and returned to the God you loved. Your life has ended, but your love, prayers, teachings and example will remain with us.

Until we meet again, Mummy, continue to rest in God's perfect peace.

Dein ma mu

Nene

A LETTER TO MY MUM IN HEAVEN

Mama Dearest,

I have started this tribute more times than I can count, and each time the words have slipped away. Every sentence makes it more real, and I am not quite ready for it to be real. You were never meant to be a memory to me, only my mum.

Since you passed on 11 August, there have been mornings when I have woken up believing, just for a moment, that you were still here. I have even reached for the phone to call you, because my mind could not accept the finality. But here we are: reality. And I choose to remember everything that you were, and still are. That, at least, cannot be taken from me.

I reflect on my childhood and how you shaped who I am today. I remember a home full of children: friends, relatives, anyone who needed a place. All were welcome. I still marvel at how you managed to keep us all in line. There was laughter, and there were all the scrapes we got into, earning us some wonderful nicknames along the way. I remember you cautioning me about falling from one of the trees in the garden, the one I insisted on climbing every day. When I wasn’t deterred, you had it removed, in frustration, for my safety. I came back from school and there was no tree. Your point was made. That was you: decisive. You took bold steps and never held back. You taught me that real care sometimes looks like a firm decision, and that boldness and love can be the same thing.

By the way, to this day, I still can’t work out quite what my fascination with that tree was!

As we grew older, the educator in you never let us get away with vague claims during our conversations with you. We never got away with sweeping statements like “they said.” You would ask who “they” referred to, meaning we learned very early on to be particular about details. You never let us settle for where we were. You urged us to keep learning, to keep growing, and to become more than we thought we could be.

Another of your favourite sayings was admonishing us for making “certainties out of perhapses” when we made assumptions. I have certainly used that line a fair few times myself, and thanks to you, I never let a “perhaps” get away with pretending to be a certainty!

Through your life’s example, you taught us to love, to give generously, to be forgiving and to be respectful. Above all, you taught us to know, love and trust God. I watched you pray through the challenges, ill health and losses you faced. You taught me what it looks like to trust God when life has taken so much. So, when my trials came, I understood what you meant when you said, “Dawuta, the same God who delivered me will deliver you. Trust Him.”

I am thankful, too, for your strength of character. It took resilience, and in many ways I have had to dig deep to live up to it as I journey through life. Only now, as a mother, do I understand the faith and resilience you carried. I am so grateful the Lord made it possible for you to meet your granddaughter and name her Tamunosiki (for indeed, God’s timing is perfect), and for her to have had a relationship with you. She knew you, and I am glad, because my words could not have done justice to the wonder and force that you are.

It never occurred to me that this illness would be your last. Looking back on those last days, I wonder whether you knew more than we did. You seemed to be at peace, trusting God with whatever came next. Even in your weakness, your faith never wavered, and it spoke louder than any words could have. You sang, “Í Támúnọ́ bẹ́, í rị́ nà ọ̀mị́ẹ́, Chẹ́yẹ́, ì bálá fámá bẹ́?” (My God is with me, what will scare me?).

Writing this tribute has not made it any more real. It will be a gradual process. There will be many moments when I will long to hear your voice. Every birthday, it will feel strange not to hear from you. I will miss hearing you ask, “Dawuta, Ndá àní láòkú? Tam’siki má kwá ní?” (Dawuta, how are you? How is Tam’siki?). I will miss calling you “Mrs Mummy!” and “Mama Dearest,” and hearing you answer, “Sharp to sharp.” I will miss you replying, “I love you more,” every time I told you I loved you. I will miss us singing “Bring Your Torches, Jeanette, Isabella” at Christmas time. I will miss… the list goes on.

Thank you, Mum, for the memories, for your love and for the values you instilled in me. Thank you for the care you showed, not only to us, your children, but to the many people whose lives you touched. I am who I am because of you. I am proud to be your àgọ́gọ́ (namesake), bearing your names, Oribi and Ruby, and in every sense I carry a part of you with me.

We are told not to grieve as those without hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13), and I want to hold on to that. I will hold on to the hope that you are not gone, that you are in a better place, with God. I pray that God blesses your soul and gives you rest, and that one day we will all meet again in Heaven.

Rest on, Mum. You have finished your race. You did well.

I love you. I miss you.

Your àgọ́gọ́
Dawuta

A Tribute to My Mother

Dear Mummy, on 11 August 2026, you went home to the Lord.

Nothing has felt quite the same since. I still think of checking in on you, and then the realisation hits me all over again. I would give anything for one more ordinary conversation, the kind I never thought to treasure until now.
I was not ready to lose you. If I am honest, I still am not. I keep wishing for one more day, one more chance to tell you everything you meant to me.
You were warm and fair, and your discipline never came without love. You wanted the very best for us and for everyone around you, and you gently pushed us to become better versions of ourselves. We learnt far more from watching you than from anything you said.
Growing up, Number 9 was never just a house. It was a home to so many, and its doors were always open; relatives and friends came and stayed, and each was treated as one of your own. Many called you Mummy, and to them you truly were that.
Your faith was the foundation of your life. You were bereaved several times and carried a sorrow few could bear, yet you held on to God, and in doing so you held on to us. In your last years, you met illness with the same courage and quiet dignity. Each time it came, you stood up again. You fought and won more than one hard season, and I truly believed you would do the same this time..... But this time, it was a battle you could not win.
I can still hear you humming "Que Sera, Sera", and I understand now what it meant to you: that the future is not ours to control, but we can meet it with courage and trust. And whenever life stung, you reminded us that roses have thorns, your gentle way of telling us that joy and beauty often come alongside pain.
We will feel your absence at family gatherings, and in the many ordinary moments when we would naturally have turned to you for guidance, reassurance or simply the comfort of your company.
I will remember you always as a devoted Christian, a loving but disciplined mother, a dedicated teacher and a resilient woman who stood tall through every storm. Your life touched your family, your pupils, your church and your community.
My heart is heavy, but I am deeply grateful to God for the privilege of being your son. You taught us love, generosity and forgiveness, and these gifts will live on in me and in everyone whose life you touched.
You loved God with all your heart, and now you are at peace with your Maker. I love you, Mummy, and I always will. Your work is done, but your legacy remains.

May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

Tekena

Grandma was a role model; she was loved and adored not just by family but by anyone who met her. I loved Grandma; she was a kind, loving and brilliant woman. Though her departure is heartbreaking, Grandma is no longer in pain. Any sort of illness she carried, like her hurt arm, is gone. She will be looking down on each one of us and smiling. We all loved Grandma so dearly it hurts to think about her leaving us temporarily. But as Matthew 5:4 says, “Those who are sad now are happy. God will comfort them.” So, I know God will comfort us.


Dear Grandma,

Though our time together was short, it was memorable. You were kind and smiley, and I regret not finishing our interview together. You told me about school (well, a small part about it). You told me it was hard (not like my school with hard long division making me pull my hair out!), but like inequality-hard. But you pushed through, you persevered through the hard parts and stood up for yourself. You’re my role model, not just because of that, but also because, after having all my aunties and uncles, you then persevered to go back to school to get your MASTER’S degree. Wow!!

Your time on earth was too short, but you managed to do so many memorable things in your life. Your life was iconic and the most incredible lifetime EVER!! I don’t just miss you, Grandma; I miss the way the world felt with you in it. I love you, and I pray that in the future we will meet you in Heaven.

Rest in perfect peace.

Your Loving Granddaughter,
Neriah Tamunosiki xx

Skin like milk - Oh how I'll miss admiring that soft clean and fair skin. It always reminded me of my Mum's.
I will miss your beautiful and thoughtful smile, your kind words and the glow and curiosity in your eyes whenever we talked. "They always made me curious too" - smiles.

Ma you always looked peaceful,sophisticated,calm and sweet to me, yet in your tender beautiful eyes I saw so much strength, courage, discipline and love.
Mummy I can still feel the integrity that exudes from you whenever i was privileged to see you, sit next to you or have a conversation with you. Your integrity speaks without words, it puts my composure and personality in check and that tells a lot about you. I now understand why everyone aligned to you is proper.
I wish I had more opportunities to be closer to you but God knows better.

Rest in God's Perfect Peace Mummy,
Much love .
Miriam Boniface

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal ; Love leaves a memory no one can steal “.
- Irish Proverb

I take solace in the knowledge that my beloved mother-in-law’s race is run, her labour is finished and she now rests in the bosom of her maker.
She lived a life anchored in faith, marked by quiet strength and wrapped in the love of Jesus Christ.
She left us a legacy of strength, resilience, wisdom and deep devotion to family that outlasts time itself
Her memory will remain a blessing in our lives.

“Sleep”! Mummy “Sleep”!! for you have run your race.

May flights of angels sing you to your rest!!!

TRIBUTE TO A LOVING GRAND AUNT.
It was hard for me to write you a tribute Mummy as we usually call you, words are not enough to describe ur personality you were a loving & kind mother a to all who came in contact with you, you were a disciplinarian to a fault. Each time i visit Mummy she always tell me about her growing up and how intelligent she was, Mummy was a beautiful woman even in old age she was still beautiful & her complexion didn't dime down, Mummy has always loved me ever since she got to know me as her grand nephew due to her love for me i had to name my first daughter after her which make her very happy, there is no time you visit Mummy that you are not offered a meal to eat.
Mummy the values & legacy, love you left behind will continue to be remembered by us who are still alive, we appreciate the good life you lived while on earth it has please the Lord to call you to rest at the rape age of 88 years.
May your beautiful and loving soul rest in peace Mummy.

You lived, you touched lives, and you impacted your generation.

You loved your family and the Church. You looked forward to holy Communion and pastoral fellowship.

You were a mother who loved and was loved.

Rest in Peace, Mama. May the Lord console your entire family.

A Tribute to My Grandma, Mrs. Oribi Wakama

“Abinjo!” As she fondly called me.

When I was little, Grandma told me she had wanted to name me Oribiene—a combination of her name, Oribi, and my other grandma’s name, Ibiene. I remember thinking it had a ring to it. I liked it a lot.

So many of my childhood memories of Grandma are tied to Number 9.

Grandma taught me many Okrika songs, and I learned all sorts of crazy stories and little things from her. Two songs in particular have stayed with me all these years:

“Wà mú sɔ́bɛ lá, dwàbɔ́ bɛ́ orí bíɛ́nɛ.
Àmɛ́ bá kásɛ́ nɔ́ bɛ́ bíɛ́ òsɛ́ míɛ bí gɔ́sɛ́.
Ò dumo sɛ́ mí, à primíɛ́.”

“Ò wɛ̀n gí pì rí fì rí mà
ḅàkà mẹ̀.
Ò sè Ị̀ mị̀ẹ̀ ìḅì mà
ḅàkà mẹ̀.”

Grandma was loving but no-nonsense. She was a teacher, so discipline was her middle name. Education, particularly the education of women, mattered deeply to her. Her house had a library filled with books and encyclopedias, and she encouraged me to read the classics. We talked about Shakespeare and Charles Dickens, and she would sometimes drop a Shakespearean one-liner into an ordinary conversation.

She was also very prim and proper. “Abiye, a woman should learn how to sew,” she would tell me. I should have a sewing kit in my bag, wear an underskirt under my dresses and remember that a lady should be seen and not heard.

Then there was Grandma the entrepreneur. She started a hair salon in her compound at Number 9, where I remember helping to tidy the rollers. I loved playing with her hair, putting in the rollers and using the different sprays from the salon. My mum would say, “Don’t mess up Grandma’s hair,” but Grandma would reply, “No, let her. Let her play. This is how she learns.”

She was always doing something, always had her hands in many pots—the real Proverbs 31 woman.

In the summer of 2004, as I was finishing my GCSEs and preparing for A-levels, I was confused about what I wanted to do. I loved fashion, but there was a lot of pressure to study medicine or pursue the sciences.

That summer, I had been customising an old black school jumper with sequins and ribbon. Grandma could see how much I loved fashion. She told me about someone she knew who had earned her degree but had also gone on to build something successful in fashion.

“Abiye, if this is what you want to do, I know someone who has done just that. Go and get your degree first, and then you can do anything you set your mind to.”

At a time when everything else felt like pressure, Grandma made me feel there was room for both.

When she travelled for my undergraduate graduation in 2010, she proudly told anyone who would listen:

“I travelled for Abiye’s graduation. She got a first class.”

And when I told her I was going straight on to do my PhD:

“The PhD that I never got to do, my grandchild is doing a PhD. Jai Oribi, who am I that God has been so faithful to me?”

Grandma and I could talk for hours about everything and nothing. I told her all the gossip, and when I was single, she wanted to know who my friends were and, of course, whether there was a man in the picture. We laughed, we gisted, she advised me and she questioned me. I knew I held a very special place in her heart, just as she held one in mine.

Grandma was equally proud when my love of fashion eventually became Laviye. She asked me to send her shoes so she could tell people they were designed by her granddaughter, carried my handbags and proudly told people about what I was doing.

“Abiye, Iya toku… you’ve made me a very proud woman.”

I also saw her strength during difficult seasons. When a court case meant she had to leave her home, she was distraught, but I watched her pick up the pieces and carry on with grace.

Her faith was central to her life. She prayed, read her Bible and encouraged me to read Psalm 91, one of her favourites. She also told me stories about the war and how she and her family coped afterwards. I witnessed that same strength firsthand when, following a diagnosis and surgery, she came to stay with us while she recovered. It was a distressing time, but I watched her pull through it with remarkable resilience. Through her stories and the challenges I saw her overcome, I came to understand even more of the strength behind the woman I knew as Grandma.

One of my most treasured memories is the last time I saw her, in 2024.

I took my children to see her, and it meant so much to me that she was able to spend time with her first great-grandchildren. We spent the day singing nursery rhymes and catching up. She was so happy to see them and hold them.

“Jai Oribi… who am I that God has kept me alive long enough to see my great-grandchildren?”

She prayed for us, blessed us and thanked Kevin for looking after me. She also remembered that young girl who had once been torn between science and fashion. Looking at Laviye twelve years later, she was happy that I had pursued something I was passionate about.

The woman who had encouraged me when I was uncertain had lived to see what became of it.

There are so many more memories of Grandma that I could never fit into these pages.

Grandma, thank you for the values you instilled in me. Thank you for believing in my education while still making room for my dreams. Thank you for the laughter, the advice, the prayers, the stories and, most of all, the love.

Thank you for being so proud of me.

And thank you for giving me so much to be proud of in you.

Dein na mu Grandma!

Till we see again and gist like there’s no tomorrow!!! xxx

Abinjo “Oribiene”

TRIBUTE TO MUMMY
IT'S HARD TO BELIEVE THAT YOU'RE NO MORE. I WISH TO WAKE UP SOMEDAY AND DISCOVER THAT THIS WAS ALL A DREAM, A HORRIBLE NIGHTMARE. ONE THAT I WOULD ONLY HAVE TO FORGET. BUT THE REALITY IS THAT YOU'RE GONE MUMMY. WORDS ARE NOT ENOUGH TO EXPRESS THE DEEP WOUNDS AND VACUUM YOU'VE LEFT IN OUR HEART. ONLY GOD UNDERSTAND WHY THIS HAD TO HAPPEN NOW AND HE ALONE CAN TRULY COMFORT US AND FILL THIS VOID YOUR DEPARTURE HAS LEFT IN OUR HEARTS.

I REMEMBER YOUR LAUGHTER, JOKES AND THE USUAL FUN YOU CREATE.
WE BELIEVE YOU ARE IN HEAVEN. AND WE PRAY THE ALMIGHTY GOD WILL RECEIVE YOU IN HIS BOSSOM. WHERE EVER YOU ARE BE OUR GUARDIAN ANGEL. I LOVE YOU MUMMY AND I'LL ALWAYS DO.

SINCERELY FROM KELECHI PHILIP 🙏🤍

My beloved school mother Oribi Wakama (nee Chieduko) was born in the year 1938 in Ogu in Ogu/ Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State.
She attended St Martin's School for her primary education, and then went on to the famous Archdeacon Crowther Memorial Girls School (ACMGS) Elelenwo, for her secondary education which is where I met her and she became my school mother. She was in form five at the time and I was in form one.

From the first day I met her, she was very kind, understanding and caring.
As my school mother she advised me to be a good student, showed me how things worked in the school, gave me advice on how to manage my time with reference to my academics and was very supportive as I tried to navigate the challenges of girlhood in a new environment without my mother or family with a lot of reassurance, patience and understanding. When I entered puberty, she kindly took on the role of a mother advising and guiding me on the changes happening in my body which were very confusing for me at the time and also advised me on what I needed to do to care for myself.
She was very patient taking on the responsibility of guiding me through that stage in my life. This helped to foster my respect for heart and earned my trust.

We lived in the same house and dormitory as some of the other girls in our school and our house teachers and we all had breakfast, lunch and supper in the same dining area of the dormitory and I have good memories of those days till today.

As an ardent believer and child of God, she led by example in her daily activities and I was very proud to have her as my school mother.

During the times when I went to her room to help with washing her dishes and school uniforms and ironing them, which was part of our duties as school daughters, I used the opportunity to ask for advice on issues which were bothering me and she was very perceptive and could tell if I was unhappy or having problems which I was unable to solve myself. We saw and spoke daily as I carried out these tasks and she was very appreciative of my efforts.

During these occasions she would give me advice and ensure that I did not get into trouble with anyone or fall foul of any of the rules of the school.
Some of my memories of that year also included her buying me snacks from some of the vendors who came to the school during the weekend to sell their wares and I was very appreciative of that as well. Also, on Sundays we all would sometimes go out into the town for services at the main church.

Without her as my school mother and without the good advice and guidance she gave me, I would not have had the type of experience I did in my form one which helped me prepare for the rest of my stay in secondary school.
As a result of that foundation and example I had from her, I did well in school and also later graduated with excellent grades in my school cert as well.
Unfortunately, the year passed very quickly and very soon she had written her school certificate examination, graduated with flying colours and went on to further her education at the Rivers State College of Education where she secured her Nigeria Certificate of Education (NCE) and later gained admission to the prestigious University of Ibadan where she obtained degrees in Language Education.
During this period we lost touch for many years thereafter.
Before she left school she gifted me a very beautiful dress which she had made for me and she also made a matching dress for herself. For many years after, I always remembered her anytime I saw the dress.

Several years later, we reconnected through former school mates and it was wonderful to discover how her life had unfolded.
She had gone on to work in the Ministry of Education, Rivers State where she rose up through the ranks until she retired as a Director which was not surprising as I knew she would go very far in life from my knowledge of her.

Her career as an educator produced students who went on to become men and woman of prominence and high standing in different sectors of the economy.
She also got married and was blessed with wonderful children some of whom I have been in touch with and are a strong reminder of the school mom I knew with her exceptional qualities and are doing very well in their various career fields.

She was a strong believer in Christ right from her early years and showed that in her day to day life which I witnessed personally. She exemplified the love of God to all she encountered reaching out to widows, orphans and the less privileged.
In her later years she devoted herself more to the things of God, taking leadership roles in furthering the work of the Gospel through her local church, making her home available for the proclamation of the Gospel and leading many souls to Christ.

She was great woman, a role model and will be greatly missed by all who came to know and love her and by all the families she impacted and who came to love and respect her.

Continue to rest in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ until we meet again, mummy.
Love,
your school daughter Grace Onwufor (nee Ikokwu).

TRIBUTE TO MY SISTER " O "

It all started as a father and daughter relationship. My Late father, Michael Edward Otto being her boss at the ministry where they both worked together. They were both tied by one ingredient - discipline. My father would not tolerate truancy and indiscipline - traits that are common among junior civil servants even till date.

According to Sister O, as I used to call her, the others in the office would say to her, " Go, make you and your papa chop government work. "
This relationship later transpired to me, Late Pa M. E. Otto's first daughter who saw Mrs Oribi Eugene Wakama as her senior sister. This journey started in the early years of the creation of this state, up till her demise in August 2026 - over five decades.

Later on in life, after her further education, she became a teacher at the Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Borikiri where she taught Pa M. E. Otto's fifth child who is now a professor of Economics. While our relationship continued, we tried our hands in business - buying the Risonpalm oil in tankers from Ubima, Rivers State and delivering to PZ, ABA.
In business, she was as astute and shrewd like the intelligent teacher and educator that she was to many students.
She was not only beautiful in body but in everything she did - she portrayed the beauty of her soul as she gave of her very best.

A woman of strength, I watched her through a few sad events in her life, indicating her reliance on God who was her mainstay.
Sister O, journey on in peace till you enter paradise. Our loving thoughts will accompany you. ADIEU!

~ VERONICA ASELE EDWARD-OTTO.

The picture below shows "Sister O"in white blouse and blue George wrapper at the funeral of her late boss in 1993

Oh, Mummy…
I don’t feel good. I don’t even know how I’m supposed to feel. What I loved and cared for so much has been taken from me. I’m broken. To think that you were in pain before you let go hurts me even more. I can’t take it.
I knew I was losing you, but I couldn’t come to terms with it. How could I. After we lost Uncle Biebele, you just gave up. How could you give up? You’re literally the strongest woman I know.
On my way back to Lagos, I couldn’t believe who I saw. My grandmother was gradually leaving me. I cried all the way back. Got home and called aunty Itoro to help take care of you. You left me alone, Mummy. You left.
The mere fact that I can’t see you again breaks my heart. Like how! I don’t know how I’m supposed to come out of this. I begged you. I encouraged you. I even prayed for you to be strong.
I feel broken every single day.
So, I’m never going to hear you ask me, “ñdè ání là-ókú?” “Ibike ooo!” Not at all.
You started getting better, and all I wished for was to hear your voice. We spoke almost every Sunday. Once you can’t get through to me, you start getting worried. The weekdays always made sense after I had spoken to you. Now, it’s just… normal.
Oh, Mummy, remember when you went in for your first surgery? You were scared you weren’t going to make it, you left a note for me with something in it. I stumbled across it, I cried when I read it. I prayed so hard to God, begging Him not to take you away.
And He kept you.
You came home healthy and confiscated that letter. We never spoke about it because we didn’t need to.
Mummy, God answered my prayer that day.
But now, you’re gone. I don’t understand it.
You were my home.
I always looked forward to coming home just to see your face light up when you saw me. Mummy, Port Harcourt doesn’t feel like home anymore. I’m broken. Your grandson is broken. I have no home anymore. We all called you “Mummy” for a reason
You were my home. Oh, dear. You were the reason it felt like home. Now, anytime I visit, I’m going to feel an overwhelming sadness.
I’m sorry for all the times I didn’t understand your love. I was a child, and I didn’t know how deeply you loved me. You could literally give your life just for me to be happy.
Sometimes, people would pause and ask you, “Who is this boy to you?” and you would simply say, “He’s my grandson.” That’s how much you loved me. I realised it too late. I wish I had more time to show you how much you meant to me.
You were my hero. My everything.
I told you to be strong for me because I needed you. I still need you.
Mummy, I planned to sit down with you when I get back this time, laugh with you, and just sit there listening to all your historical gist. But here I am, writing all these words, and you can’t even read them.
I’m broken, Mummy. Your grandson misses you. He really, really misses you.
I love you so, so much, from the bottom of my heart. I hope you knew that. I hope you felt it.
Rest peacefully, my sweet grandmother.
My home.
My hero.
I love you forever, Mummy.

A TRIBUTE TO MY BEAUTIFUL AND CHEERFUL MUMMY

Mummy, I miss you so much. You will forever be remembered in my heart. Thank you for your care, concern, and love for me. Thank you also for the good deeds you showed throughout your life, which I have truly learned from you.

You were a beautiful and cheerful woman, a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. You were a woman who always thought about others and showed kindness to everyone around you.

Mummy, you were not only a good mother to your own children; you were also a good mother to other people's children, especially me, Itoro, your daughter, and to everyone who came around you. You were a disciplined mother, a caring woman, and a giver.

Your generosity was beyond words. Whenever anyone came to you for help, you would always do your best to help. You would give them food, foodstuff, or money. You would even pay their transport fare to help them get back home. You also gave people good advice that could help solve their problems. You never turned people away when they needed your help.

Mummy, you were especially good to me. Anytime you traveled, you would always think about me and say, "I don't know if Itoro has eaten." That showed how much you cared about me, even when you were far away.

You used to tell people, "After God, me and Itoro, for you." These words showed how much you loved me and cared about my well-being. Sometimes, when people troubled me, you would protect and defend me. You were always there for me, and I will forever be grateful for that.

Mummy, thank you for everything you did for me and for others. Thank you for your love, your kindness, your generosity, your advice, and for always being there for the people who needed you.

Mummy, goodbye. I will always miss you, and I will always carry your memories in my heart. Even though you are no longer with me, the love you gave me and the lessons you taught me will remain with me forever.

May your soul rest in perfect peace in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Amen.

With Love,
Itoro

TRIBUTE TO MY BELOVED AUNT

Though words are inadequate to express how much you will be missed, you will always be remembered as the custodian of our family history. You preserved our roots and stories, and readily shared every tale of our lineage with the next generation at every
opportunity, with so much love and wisdom.

As a great teacher, we cannot forget your regular tutorials, wise counsel, and graceful personality that exuded kindness and elegance. Forever in our hearts, being the last of our forebears and the end of a generation.

Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.

Adieu, my beloved Aunt.

Francis

A Tribute to My Mother

A LIFE WELL LIVED

When I think of the person I am today, I cannot tell my story without remembering Mum. Her love helped shape my life, as it shaped so many others. She had seven children of her own and welcomed nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and
extended family into her home. She gave so many of us a place to belong.

Mum's home was full of warmth, good food, and laughter. She was loving and caring, while teaching us good manners, responsibility and the importance of doing things properly. Her guidance stayed with us long after we left her home.

She taught me to drive and to cook. Some of my happiest memories are of being beside her in the kitchen while she baked her cakes. Although she taught me to cook, I still
have to admit that hers always tasted better! Those simple moments are treasures I will always carry.

She was also my history teacher at Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Borikiri, Port Harcourt. At home, at school and in church, her guidance shaped me.
She taught by example, showing us the value of learning, faith and caring for one another.
I remember visiting her in Ibadan with Biebele while she pursued her Master's degree. Looking back, I admire her determination to keep learning while giving so much to her
family.

Today, my heart is heavy, but it is also full of gratitude for her prayers, her patience and her love. Her seven children and the wider family she welcomed each carry their own treasured memories. Together, we share the blessing of having known her.

Thank you, Mum, for helping me become the man I am and for making room in your heart for so many of us. Your lessons live on in our choices, your kindness in how we care for others, and your love in the family you brought together.

Rest peacefully, Mum. You lived, you loved, you taught, and you left a legacy that belongs to us all. You will always be remembered with love and respect.


Your nephew,
Miebaka Iyotoru
Assistant Commissioner of Police

Grandma, where do I start? Your Adiemus misses you terribly. I sit back and recall the memories and I’m comforted in knowing, loving and being loved by you.

My woman of steel - in all ramifications of the word! Her love for God, family, friends and good English! And she NEVER forgot a birthday! Femi and I will continue the birthday calls tradition with our children because of its significance.

I have so many memories of my times with my grandma. All the Okirika songs I know, I learnt from Grandma. Always willing to teach.

I remember when I came to Nigeria for my wedding and introduced Femi to you. The smile on your face, the massive hug you gave, the prayers and the love you showed to my in-laws. Till today, they still call you ‘Mama Onunu’.

Thank you Grandma for everything; the lessons, the love, the fear of God but most of all, YOU!

I’m comforted in knowing that you are now resting with Jesus.

Love you forever,
Your Adiemus ❤️

I’ve honestly tried my best to rationalize your passing — comforting myself with the knowledge that you lived a full and blessed life; that you gave and experienced so much love; and that you left an impact on so, so many people over the decades.

But knowing all of that doesn’t make saying goodbye any easier.

I still remember the random urge I had to fly home last May, just days before my graduate school commencement. I couldn’t quite explain why I felt compelled to make such an impromptu transatlantic trip, especially for only a few days.

But I’m so glad I did.

We got to spend Mother’s Day together. I got to see you in good spirits. I got to chat with you, laugh with you, and experience your love.

I didn’t know it then, but that would be the last time I would get to do all of those things with you. And knowing that now, I’m so grateful that I made that trip home.

They say that to live on in the hearts of those who love you is not to die.

So as you rest in God’s care, you live on in my heart — in the fond memories and priceless wisdom you gave me, in the love you showed me, and in the lives of all those you touched.

I love you, Grandma.

Rest well.

A tribute in loving memory of my wonderful, loving school mum, Mummy Oribi Wakama of the famous Archdeacon Crowther Memorial Girls School, Elelenwo.
In the year 1965, she was already in her final year (form 5) when I gained admission into form 1 in the school. At a boarding school very far from my home, it was the first time I was separated from my family.
As my school mum, she occupied the position of a mother, gave guidance on life issues when I needed it, and was a role model.
She was an ardent child of God and a strong tower for me and helped me in my growth as a christain.
When she finished her school cert, she made us both matching beautiful dresses before she left and I always remembered her anytime I saw the dress.
Later in life I was able to reconnect with her and her wonderful family and we kept in touch until she unfortunately passed.
I and my family will forever remember her kindness and her love for God and her family and for helping to impact the lives of all she met positively.
She will be forever missed and may her wonderful soul rest in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen!Grace

Dearest Grandma,

I have wrestled with my thoughts on how to mourn you. I am still processing the fact that I will not get to speak with you again.

I will miss our very candid conversations. I will miss your banter and your wit, your beautiful smile and your absorbing stories. I will miss your delicious Onunu and fish pepper soup. I will even miss you giving me a hard time about not yet giving you a great-grandchild. But what I think I will miss most is hearing you call me “Number 1.”

Visits to “Number 9,” William Jumbo Street, will never be the same. Some of my fondest childhood memories were made at this special address, and so many of them have you at the centre. As a child, I believed you lived on a farm, with a hatchery, acres of crops and so much land for us to play in and have endless adventures. I never wanted to leave when it was time to go home.

You touched so many lives simply by being who you were. Your sense of style, grace, eloquence and good manners were qualities that many admired and sought to emulate. You took great care of those around you and gave generously of yourself. There was always something to learn from you—whether it was etiquette, proper grammar, humour, generosity or, above all, complete faith in God.

Thank you, Grandma, for the many memories we shared. Thank you for your love, for the lessons you taught me, and for the care you showed not only to your family, but to the many people whose lives you touched.

I will no longer receive your 12 a.m. calls on my birthday, but every 1st of July, I know I will think of you first. So many of us will have to adjust to this new reality of you no longer being the first to wish us “Happy Birthday.” It was one of those little things you did so faithfully that we perhaps never imagined we would one day have to live without.

You lived a full life, and I am grateful to God for the gift of having you in mine. I pray that He blesses your soul, grants you eternal life, and reunites you with your loved ones who have gone before you.

I look forward to the day when we will meet again. And I pray that, one day, I will finally give you the great-grandchildren you so dearly longed for. I know that wherever you are, you will probably still be asking me what took so long.

Dein na mu, Grandma.

Love always,

"Number 1"

Uchechukwu Ibifubara Onichabor

Mama, the only time I was opportuned to see you was at your grand daughter's wedding in Lagos. You hugged me and prayed for me. May your gentle soul continue to rest in peace with the Lord in Jesus name amen.

A loving tribute to my dear Aunt, Mrs Oribi Wakama

Aunty was my father's cousin and was very dear to me and my family. One of the many things I will always cherish about my Aunty was her kindness and generosity towards the people around her. I remember vividly how she bought a lot of gifts for my daughter during her wedding. She always found joy in giving to others and celebrating the special moments in their lives.

Aunty was a truly beautiful woman, both inside and out. But it is the beauty of her heart that makes her so special. She was always warm, kind and generous, and she had a beautiful way of making people feel loved and remembered. She was always happy to see me anytime I visited her home in old GRA and had lots of stories to share.

While our hearts are heavy with the pain of losing her, we are grateful for her love, kindness and the beautiful memories. We thank God for the many years we were blessed to have her in our lives. Her legacy of kindness and generosity will continue to live in our hearts.

Rest in peace, Aunty. You were deeply loved and will never be forgotten.

From your dear niece,
Deaconess Helen S. Peters (aka Agberene Toku)

We received with deep sadness the news of the passing to glory of our beloved Aunt and Morher Mrs Oribi Eugene Wakama. Most young people in Wakama family fondly called her Mother. She was an inspiration to many young boys and girls in Wakama family. She was always warm in our interactions with her. She showed special interest in our progress at school. Her words of encouragement spurred us to work harder and achieve success. The home of Mr and Mrs Eugene Wakama stood out as a symbol of success. We occassionally visited the family inorder to assure ourselves that success could be replicated if we worked hard. Mrs Oribi Eugene Wakama was a woman of style and grace. Her unique voice and personality lightened every where she found her self. My family has been out of Port Harcourt for some time. On one of our visits my wife and I stopped by at the family house to see her. Our feelings were dampened when we discovered that a domestic accident had constrained her mobility. Her demise marks the passage of a golden era of a noble woman. Adieu our special Aunt and Mother. We pray God to receive her into is His Bossom and grant her eternal rest. Tribute: Dr and Mrs Soala Ariweriokuma

*A TRIBUTE TO THE HEART OF GOLD*
*MA ORIBI E. WAKAMA*

Life has phases and very precarious junctions of bends and twists where what happens in them may make or mar the individual, that is why we need the watchful eyes of parents and the help of God.

I was a student of 17 years in 1977 in class 3 at Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Borikiri, Port Harcourt when this same recalcitrant and truancy demon held my soul and made me spend my school fees in frivolous indulgences in the name of boy/girl friend nonsense as a growing youth. At that time our Principal Chief C. I. Abraham insisted that all those who have not paid their school fees must not sit for their final exams.

This moment was a decisive moment of my life and it was at this time out of the blues that Ma Oribi E. Wakama a mother with the heart of gold took out of her salary N30 and paid for me to sit for the exams that took me further in my educational pursuits. She was God sent and her kindness culminated in my repentance in Scripture Union that year.

I became very grateful to her all my life to the very day of her death and even beyond to this day. And all this while it has been one kind gesture or the other from Ma from time to time and I am ever very grateful for a mother like her who was my History and English teacher and my school guardian, a woman with a Golden Heart. I cannot pay you this great gesture and I will never forget. God bless you.

Adieu Mama and great good night to you. Amen.

Pst. I. J. Sam-Dakoroma

I did not know you as well as I wish I had, but I came to know your strength, love and kindness through your son. The way he spoke of you with such respect and affection showed me how special you were. I am grateful for the love and values you passed on to him, and I will always remember you with respect and admiration.
Rest on Dear Mummy, you will forever be loved, honored and remembered.

When I think of my Grandma, so many things come to mind. Her beautiful smile. Her dainty fingers and perfect skin. Her impeccable manners. Her intelligence and eloquence. Her thoughtfulness. Her love for God and her family. Her wonderful stories. And, of course, her delicious Onunu. It's really difficult to imagine a life without her. 
Grandma was a fantastic conversationalist and a natural storyteller. She had a way of telling a story that made you want to keep listening. She was outspoken, but gentle. Honest, sometimes very blunt, and you always knew exactly what she thought. She had very little tolerance for bad manners and, particularly, for speaking incorrect English! But even in her firmness, there was always a certain grace.
She also had a remarkable memory. She never forgot a face or a name, and she certainly never forgot a birthday. She would be among the first to wish you a happy birthday, often calling or sending a message at exactly 12 midnight. It may seem like a small thing, but it captured so much of who she was: thoughtful, intentional and always making the people she loved feel important.
Some of my fondest memories of Grandma are from Number 9. I remember the sleepovers, coming there after church for her delicious Onunu, hearing her call me “Ogonw’am,” and listening to her sing special songs for me. These may seem like simple childhood memories, but they are memories I will carry for the rest of my life because, in those moments, I felt loved and special.
Years later, I had the privilege of bringing my own son to Number 9. Watching him run around the same living room and compound where my siblings, cousins and I had once played was incredibly special. 
Grandma taught me much more than she probably realised. She taught me to be generous, to be ambitious and to believe that it is never too late to pursue something that interests you. She taught me the importance of education and reading. Watching her build a career while raising a large family and managing all the responsibilities that came with it showed me the meaning of discipline and determination.
And above all, she taught me to pray. Grandma prayed for me and she prayed with me. She prayed for her children, her grandchildren, her great-grandchildren and the people she loved. Her love for God was evident not only in the things she said, but in the way she lived and cared for others. She experienced loss and difficult moments, yet she never allowed the challenges of life to make her bitter. She continued to love, to give, to pray and to carry herself with grace.
Perhaps one of the hardest things about losing someone is discovering all the little moments when their absence suddenly becomes real.
For me, it was my birthday. Less than a month after Grandma passed, I celebrated my birthday without her usual midnight call or message. I knew it would not come, but that did not make it any easier. I remember looking at my phone at midnight, knowing there would be no message from Grandma. In that moment, the reality of losing her felt especially heavy.
I know there will be other moments like that. Moments when I will want to hear her voice, listen to one of her stories, hear her sing to me, or sit with her and simply talk.
But alongside the sadness, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. I am grateful for every sleepover, every story, every song, every birthday message, every conversation and, of course, every plate of Onunu.
Grandma, I hope you know that you are deeply loved and deeply missed. I hope you know that you did an amazing job. You gave so much to your family, and you left behind a legacy that will continue through all of us. I am proud to carry your name, your lessons and your legacy forward. I hope that in my own life, I can reflect some of the strength, generosity, faith and love that defined yours.
I know you are now resting peacefully with your Heavenly Father, reunited with the loved ones who went before you.
Until we meet again, Grandma.
I love you

My memories of my second mum go back to the early 1990s. Whenever I visited the family home, she welcomed me with genuine warmth and always took the time to talk with me.

There was something quietly motherly about the way she related to me. In her presence, I never felt like merely her child’s friend or a visitor to the house; I felt welcomed and cared for. That feeling has remained with me through the years.

I am deeply saddened by her passing, and my thoughts and prayers are with my dear friend and the entire family.

Rest peacefully, Mama Oribi. You will always be remembered with warmth and affection.

My late great uncle, (Engineer Eugene Wakama)'s beautiful wife, (Mrs Oribi Eugene Wakama) my great auntie, has left us. She was the solid rock behind my uncle's success and handled herself with grace and queenly dignity to the end. A bright, kind and intelligent woman- She was the parent who encouraged her children and extended family to learn, to dare and to believe in themselves. With her active support, my great uncle took an active part in the intellectual advancement of family members- She was truly the power behind my late uncle's successful endeavours. She was unstoppable, formidable and huge. She offered unconditional love to my late mother (Mrs Hetty Owubokiri) a favourite niece to her husband and acted as a supportive bridge between family crucial bonds across the wakirike se -towns of Wakama, Ogu and Bolo respectively. She left an indelible trace, a memory of her that is both charming and loving. She was a jewel of womanhood and we are deeply grateful for her love for her family. May her most beautiful and courageous soul rest in perfect peace.

TRIBUTE TO A BELOVED MOTHER

Your passing has left a void that words cannot fully express. You were a woman of warmth, kindness, and genuine love, and I am deeply grateful for the goodness you showed me.

Though you were my elder brother’s mother-in-law, you welcomed me with the love and affection of a mother. Your kindness, generosity, and beautiful spirit will remain precious memories in my heart. You touched my life in ways that I will forever cherish.

It is difficult to say goodbye to someone who was so good to me, but I find comfort in knowing that you lived a life that blessed those around you. Your legacy of love and kindness will continue to live on through your family and everyone whose life you touched.

Rest peacefully, dear Mama. You will be greatly missed, fondly remembered, and forever cherished.

TRIBUTE

I encountered Mummy as a young girl, and years later, our paths crossed again through her son, who is my colleague at work.

Mummy was an epitome of beauty, loving, prayerful and so gracious a woman. She always welcomed me warmly, prayed for me, and blessed me whenever we met and through phone calls.

Her love and prayers will remain precious memories to me. I am grateful for the privilege of knowing her and experiencing her warmth and kindness.

Mummy, you will be greatly missed. Thank you for your prayers, your blessings, and the love you showed me.

May your gentle soul rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord. 🕊️
BELEMA ENOCH( NESREA)

Our deepest condolences to the Wakama family on the transition of your beloved Matriarch. May the memories of her love, wisdom, and legacy remain a lasting source of strength and comfort. We stand with the family in this solemn moment and pray for her peaceful repose. 🕊️🙏🏾

I am Stella Ibaraye FIBERESIMA praying for strength for all of us as we prepare for mummy’s burial. May God grant her peace and rest.

She was a strong woman, my precious uncle’s wife—a loving person who always stood with the family during hard times. May her soul rest in perfect peace.

My dears, these are painful times. May God hold all of us close, strengthen us, and grant our mummy eternal rest.

Our mummy will always be remembered for her always strength—standing by her husband, my precious uncle, and helping others. RIP ma

Tribute to My Beloved Ma

Ma was not only a mother, but a woman of extraordinary faith. Even on her sick bed, she never stopped praying. I remember how much happier she became whenever I came to pray with her. Her faith was truly inspiring and showed me the strength of her relationship with God.

I was blessed to be like a daughter to Ma, and she was very fond of me. She was always so happy to have me around, and I treasured every moment we shared. Ma, your love, faith, and beautiful spirit will forever remain in my heart.
Rest peacefully, Ma. ❤️

A LIFE OF FAITH, STRENGTH AND GRACE

I remember Mrs Oribi Eugene Wakama with great fondness. Although the passage of time and the circumstances of life meant that our paths had not crossed for many years, my memories of her remain warm and enduring.

I particularly remember the Wakama home as a welcoming place, and Mrs Wakama as the gracious and steadfast matriarch at its heart—a woman whose warmth extended beyond her immediate family and made others feel at home.

Her life was not without deep personal sorrow. She endured the painful loss of a son and, later, a granddaughter—griefs that would test the strongest of hearts. Yet through those difficult seasons, she remained steadfast in her faith and strong for her family. Therein, perhaps, lies one of the most compelling testimonies of her life: she carried her own grief while continuing to be a source of strength to those around her.

The words of Scripture seem particularly fitting:

“Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.” — Proverbs 31:25

At eighty-eight years, hers was a long and fruitful life. Her enduring legacy will be found in the family she nurtured, the generations that follow her, the faith she demonstrated through adversity, and the many warm memories she leaves behind.

To Tonye , Erefaka and the entire Eugene Wakama family, I extend my heartfelt condolences. May the God of all comfort strengthen and uphold you, and may the memories of your beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother increasingly bring gratitude and smiles even through the tears.

Scripture reminds us:

“The memory of the just is blessed.” — Proverbs 10:7

Indeed, hers is a blessed memory.

Farewell, Mrs Oribi Eugene Wakama. You weathered life’s storms, remained steadfast in faith, held your family close, and fulfilled with grace the role of a true matriarch.

May her soul rest in perfect peace, and may her memory remain a blessing from generation to generation.

Nimi Tekenaire Amachree

Losing you came with profound heartache, there is simply no way around the pain. I am left holding a deep wish for just one more conversation, keeping the thoughts of what we could have talked about or shared only in my heart. I find comfort in the beautiful hope that there is a place where the ones we lose meet again, holding onto each other and being comforted once more. I do not know how to say a final goodbye, so instead, I will keep replaying the words I looked forward to saying and recreating scenes of seeing you again..
The children! The past weeks I have gotten to learn about a lot of experiences they had and moments shared with you at No.9. They will no longer be able to reach Grandma Daddy but they sure have a word of memories. Thank you.
Mummy, you are deeply missed, and will always be remembered.

Farewell Oribi! Despite the age difference you accepted me as a friend! You made me feel at home each time I visited you and you always treated me in a special way! Your attitude towards me encouraged and endeared my children to you. My daughter Manyo arranged her wedding in your home and all our friends and relatives that came for the wedding could voach for your generosity! You were very kind and considerate in all your dealings and very sensitive and careful not to hurt any feeling!
Your whole life portrayed that of a child of God! May you be led safely back home to the luminous gardens of joyful activities!

Hello mummy. Thanks for making me smile duringmy most trying times. Rest in peace ma.

I may not remember us meeting but I know you will always be a part of my family, rest in eternal peace and happiness now Grandma.

Apart from my biological mom, you were that Auntie who called out the substance of womanhood from my young heart.
As a dear friend of my mom's, i was deeply inspired by your insistence on excellence, decency & grateful carriage in all I ever did under your watch.
Thank you for sparing your time and attention to inspire those of us who encountered you on our journey upward.

How can I forget your advice to me to keep well and stay strong? How can I forget your unmatched philanthropy and compassion for the downtrodden?. Your smiles, even in the face of pain, were a reflection of the beautiful soul that you were.
You would call me to find out how I was doing, and those moments will never fade, they will remain evergreen in my memory. Without saying much,I would simply say that every time we met was a learning experience for me.
For us, your passing further brings home the lesson about the inevitable - death, which beckons on every human being. It reminds us of the duty to do the things that leave footprints on the sands of time, just as you did.
May the Lord grant you eternal rest and give the family the strength to bear this irreparable loss.
Rest well, Mummy. You will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

A TRIBUTE TO A DEAR MOTHER
Mama, was a beautiful woman with a beautiful heart full of love. She was a remarkable teacher whose warmth and grace touched everyone she met.She left a lasting impact. May the Chariot of Angels carry her soul to the bosom of Jesus. Enjoy Heaven, Mama.

A Tribute to My Beloved Aunt

Today, we pause with heavy hearts to remember, cry and celebrate the life of a truly remarkable woman—my beloved Aunt.

Your passing leaves a space in our family that words cannot adequately describe. You have done more than you will ever know. Thank you, Mommy, for everyone in this family you have assisted personally and financially to be educated. These men and women are all standing on their own knowing quite well that a major path of their lives was on account of your contribution in their education and they will never forget. They will remember you, Mommy, for your words of encouragement, reproof, and motherly instructions. You will be missed, Mommy.

I was a bit of a menace to you but you accommodated me and still loved me. Today you are proud of me of the woman I have become, as you can see the fruit of your labor. Thank you for the encouragement you gave me.

You are more than a relative; you were a treasured part of our family story, a woman whose presence brought meaning, warmth, and connection to those fortunate enough to know you. We carry pieces of you with us—in our memories, in our family traditions, in the stories we will continue to tell, and in the love that will pass from one generation to another.

Thank you for being a part of our lives. Thank you for the love you gave, the strength you demonstrated, and the memories you left behind. Your earthly journey has ended, but the imprint of your life remains.

God bless you, my sweet mommy.

Sleep well until that day we shall meet again.

Your Niece,
Susannah Chieduko Bamson.

In Loving Memory of Mrs. Oribi Wakama

Today, I stand with a heart filled with both sorrow and gratitude as I remember my wonderful aunt, Oribi Wakama.

Aunt Oribi was more than a beloved member of our family. She was a woman whose presence carried wisdom, strength, grace, and purpose. She had a way of leaving an impression on the people around her, sometimes through the simplest conversations and the quietest moments.

One of the memories I will always treasure is the time I visited her at the University of Ibadan many years ago. I may not have realized at the time just how meaningful those conversations would become, but the life lessons she shared with me have stayed in my heart.

She spoke to me about life—not merely about achieving success, but about how to live well. She reminded me, through her words and through the example of her own life, that character matters, that people matter, and that we should never lose sight of what is truly important. Her wisdom was not simply something she spoke; it was something she carried.

As the years have passed, I have found myself remembering those conversations and understanding them in new ways. Sometimes, the lessons we receive from those who love us do not reveal their full meaning immediately. They grow with us. Aunt Oribi's words became seeds planted in my heart, and I am grateful that she took the time to plant them.

That is one of the beautiful things about a life well lived: a person's physical presence may leave us, but their words, values, love, and influence continue to live through us.

Aunt Oribi's life was a gift to our family. Her memory will live in the stories we tell, in the lessons we pass on, and in the lives she touched. I will especially remember her as my wonderful aunt who took the time to speak wisdom into my life when I was younger—wisdom that I continue to carry with me today.

Aunt Oribi, thank you for the conversations, the lessons, the love, and the example you gave us.

Thank you for being part of my life.

Although I wish we had more time, I am grateful for the time we were given. I will carry your memory with me, and I will continue to honor the lessons you taught me by the way I live.

May your memory forever be a blessing to our family.

Rest peacefully, Aunt Oribi Wakama.
You will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

Goodbye to a truly special woman, my grandmother. Grandma’s love, strength, discipline, and kindness were the constants of our lives.She always welcomed my siblings and me with open arms. Some of my favorite childhood memories are of us playing in the beautiful compound and garden she maintained so well. No matter when we visited, she always had food on thee table or a gift waiting for all of us and of course words of wisdom and advice. Those moments seemed ordinary at the time, but today, I realize they were precious gifts, treasures I will carry for the rest of my life.I will miss her deeply. While the pain of her loss is something that will never truly go away, that ache is overshadowed by the joy she brought into our lives.

Grandma, I fondly remember plucking flowers around your house and putting them in your hair. Also remember the times when my sister and I would play in the pile of sand in your compound and you would get mad that we brought sand into the house but we would still repeat on every visit and somehow there was always more sand for us to play with🤗. I am happy to have those memories of you. They will always be cherished.
Your Grandson Zoel

Grandma was amazing. Always caring. I remember when daddy will take me to your house after school, you would care for me and my brother and we would play around the compound, with the sand till it was time to go home. I always looked forward to coming to your house. All that is gone now. It's sad, those can't happen anymore. I will always remember all the lovely times we shared at your home. I will always love, remember you. and never forget anything you taught me.
Rest in peace grandma
Your granddaughter Ibinabo

TRIBUTE TO AN AMIABLE MUMMY
Mummy No 9 as we fondly referred to her was indeed an amazing woman, a role model and a fashionable woman. She was a seasoned teacher and so many great men and women passed through her tutoring. She was marvelous, honorable, original treasure, excellent and a reliable Mother.She had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel special and loved. Her home was always opened to everyone, that showed how much she loved people.
She was compassionate, yet strong, gentle but firm and her heart overflowed with empathy for others.
She handled life’s challenges with faith, courage, resilience and grace that left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. She never gave up on the challenges, she stood firm.
Growing up on the same street with expatriate neighbors all around, her home was our second home. Her words of encouragement kept us going as she always said’ don’t give up.
Mummy was a source of inspiration and encouragement. I remembered when I went for my Masters degree in the University of Ibadan and I told her that I saw her project work at the Faculty of Education library, she was so excited and encouraged me to keep going.
Death is inevitable, she has fought the good fight and now it’s time for her to take a bow at this time. We will surely miss her kindness hospitality and words of encouragement.
May her gentle soul rest in the bosom of the Lord.
Adieu Mummy No 9.
Dr Beatrice Dute Iwowari
For The Late B. O Ayerite family of No 8.

Mama was a very welcoming host and mother with an open heart and hands. On first encounter you felt welcomed, at home and eventually get to partake in her generosity. May the Good Lord in His Goodness and Mercies grant her a Blessed Rest. Adieu Mama Wakama

Tribute from salvation Ministries Old G R A Portharcourt.
In loving memory of Mrs Oribi Eugene wakama. A devoted daughter of God, a pillar and a mother to many.
Mrs Oribi Eugene wakama lived her life as a living sacrifice unto the lord. Her love for God was not just spoken, it was demonstrated. She was generous in giving, faithful in service, and passionate about seeing the kingdom of God advance.
Year after year, she opened her home for home fellowship, and her heart by annually hosting Glory Reigns, one of the church's biggest programs. Through that platform, countless lives encountered God's presence, were healed, delivered, and drawn closer to Christ.
Her generosity made room for God's Glory to reign. Indeed, Her absence will be deeply felt in the services she helped create at old G R A Branch.
Though we mourn, we do not mourn as those without hope. We celebrate a life well lived, a race well run, and a legacy of generosity that will continue to bear fruit for generations.
Rest in peace, Mama. Until we meet again at His feet.

A Tribute from salvation Ministries Old G R A Branch Portharcourt.
In loving memory of Mrs Oribi Eugene wakama.
A devoted daughter of God, and a mother to many.
Mrs Oribi Eugene wakama lived her life as a living sacrifice unto the lord. Her love for God was not just spoken, it was demonstrated. She was generous in giving, faithful in service, and passionate about seeing the kingdom of God advance.
Year after year, she opened her home for fellowship and her heart by annually hosting Glory Reigns, one of the church's biggest programs. Through that platform, countless lives encountered God's presence, were healed, delivered, and drawn closer to Christ. Her generosity made room for God's Glory to reign. Indeed, Her absence will be felt in the services she helped create at old G R A Branch.
Though we mourn, we do not mourn as those without hope. We celebrate a life well lived, a race well run, and a legacy of generosity that will continue to bear fruit for generations.
Rest in peace, Mama. Until we meet again at His feet .

You were a calm, kind, and receptive Hostess
whose warmth made everyone feel welcome.
Thank you for opening your home and your heart to us. Your life was a quiet testimony of love, faith, and service. You may no longer be with us physically, but the memories of your kindness, your peaceful nature, and the impact you made will remain with us.
Above all, I am grateful that you lived and died in Christ. You fought a good fight of faith and you finished well.
Though our hearts are heavy, we have the assurance that you are resting in the Lord.
Rest peacefully, Ma. Your labour of love will not be forgotten.

Aunty was beautiful till the end. Her house was open and full. It was a second home while I was in uni. She had a great sense of humour, though my mum's friend,she was open to young people's gist. There was the other side though, no nonsense.
Thank God for a full life and His grace upon her during the tough times. You have entered your rest. May her memory always be a blessing. Much love