Kathy Onyeka: A Mother Per Excellence Gone
By Ovie Edomi
The sleepy town of Idumuje Unor came to life when Kathy Onyeka, fondly called Mummy, the matriarch of the Onyeka family was laid to rest recently. Earlier in Lagos precisely at the Providence Hotel Hall off Oba Akinjobi way, GRA, Ikeja, well wishes also gathered to celebrate Mummy for a life well spent. Some of those present described her as a devoted Christian, quiet and elegant mother as well as a Parishioner who lived an inspiring life. One of Mummy’s children described her as a caring mother per excellence who never gave in to indulgence and laziness.
At Idumuje Unor in Aniocha North local government area of Delta state where she was laid to rest, those who spoke to the Reporter poured encomium on Mummy Kathy Onyeka and her children. In fact, an elderly man sitting in front of his house near the Jehovah’s Witness Church who didn’t want his name mentioned said in excitement “Mama Kathy Onyeka second name is lucky because she gave birth to very successful children”. Another woman said in excitement “The indigenes got more than enough food to take home after the burial and we remain very grateful to the children”.
It was the same thing at the Marquee in Asaba, Delta state where the reception took place. Food and drinks were in abundance. This was supported by traditional musicians and a comedian. Mama’s burial and the reception that followed was like a carnival. The reception ceremony, had several prominent personalities in attendance including top Customs Officers from all parts of the country particularly Lagos, Ogun, Rivers states and the Federal capital Territory where one of Mama’s sons, Frank Onyeka serves as Assistant Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service. Traditional Chiefs from Isele-Uku and beyond came in their hundreds, Journalists from Edo and Delta states in Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Lagos State were also represented. Indeed, the who is who in Customs Clearing Agents business were on ground to say goodbye to Mummy Kathy Onyeka.
At a point, Frank Onyeka in company of mama’s children and other relatives including his wife went round thanking guests. It was indeed carnival-like. Indeed for Mummy Kathy Onyeka, even heaven will know that a soul has been added to it. This is aside the befitting burial ceremony to herald mama’s return to her maker. Adieu Mummy Kathy Onyeka.
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