By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The Chairman, Hotel De Espana, High Chief Ambrose Elofu Dike-Elue, in a heartwarming display of devotion and gratitude to God Almighty, hosted a remarkable Memorial Service in honor of his late mother, Deaconess (Mrs) Patricia Okogba, on Sunday.
The grandiose event, which was held at Redeemed Christian Church of God, Ibusa, Delta State Nigeria, brought together family, friends, dignitaries, and well-wishers from across the globe to celebrate the life and times of a woman whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
The roll call of dignitaries which is inexhaustible includes Chief Victor Nwodo, Hon. Mike Ogar, Prof. Ogom Okafor ,Emadan Inspection Engineering Ltd, Bullbear Integrated Services Ltd, FEFE and partners Insurance Brokers Ltd, 1st Bank, Wema Bank, Keystone Bank, Zenith Bank, Fidelity Bank, United Capital and Shorepower Ltd.
Also present at the memorial and thanks giving service were members of Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria(ACNPN) and several other Journalists in Delta, as they celebrated the amiable life of late Deaconess(Mrs) Patricia Okogba.
Deaconess (Mrs) Patricia Okogba, who passed on at the age of 67, in 2011 was a pillar of her family and community, known for her deep faith, compassion, and unyielding commitment to humanity, she was a shining example of selflessness. Her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother extended far beyond her primary responsibility, extending to mentorship, spiritual guidance, and act of kindness that earned her love and admiration from all who knew her.
Her contributions to community development were underscored during the service by heartfelt tributes from clergy, community leaders, and family members. Redeemed Christian Church of God, Ibusa, which hosted the service, was filled to capacity as guest came to honor her life and reflect on her enduring impact.
An Atmosphere of Reverence and Thanksgiving, The memorial service commenced with a solemn procession and uplifting hymns that resonated within the church. Clergymen led prayers of thanksgiving, reflecting on the late Deaconess’s unwavering faith and her steadfast dedication to God and humanity. A sermon, delivered by the presiding cleric,entitled Mother’s influence culled from Genesis 27: 1 -7, centered on the role and the importance of mothers in shaping and influencing the life they would wish their children live. He stressed the fundamentals of living a legacy-driven life, drawing parallels to the remarkable life of late Redeemed Christian Church of God, Ibusa.
The annual memorial service, began years back as a carnival-like celebration of life. This year’s commemoration was no exception, as it was full with solemnity, gratitude, and joy of remembrance.
High Chief Ambrose Elofu Dike-Elue, a renowned business mogul, farmer and philanthropist, AKA Espana while addressing the Press expressed his profound gratitude to God Almighty for the success of the Memorial Service and the opportunity to honor his mother’s evergreen memories.
In his interaction with newsmen, the High Chief during the media parley and session described the memorial as a deeply personal and spiritual occasion aimed at immortalizing his Mother’s memory to the glory of God,speaking with deep affection with an emotionally ladden voice laced with a blend of grace said:
“Our beloved mother, Deaconess(Mrs) Patricia Okogba, was a devout Christian, a dedicated Mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life and service to humanity left an indelible mark. Her legacy is one we are committed to keeping alive, ensuring it remains evergreen for generations to come as long as the earth exist.”
He appreciated all his family members, friends and everyone who played one role or the other to make the event a resounding success.
High Chief Ambrose Elofu Dike-Elue’s remark was a highlight of the event. He recounted cherished memories of his mother’s unwavering support, wisdom, and encouragement, which played a pivotal role in shaping his journey to success. He described her as a “rare gem, a virtuous woman whose love knew no bounds and whose faith never wavered.”
following the church service, a grand reception was held in Asaba, featuring an outpouring of cultural displays, music, and culinary delights. The event attracted a host of dignitaries, business associates, political class, community leaders, and friends of the family, all united in their admiration for the family’s commitment to preserving their Matriarch’s memory.
The celebration concluded with a thanksgiving dance, led by the family members, symbolizing their gratitude to God for the gift of their Matriarch’s life and the blessings that have followed her transition.
The Memorial Service of Deaconess (Mrs) Patricia Okogba was a testament to the enduring power of a mother’s love and the legacy of a life well-lived. For Mr Patrick Okogba, the annual event is a sacred duty to honor the memory of a woman whose life remains a guiding light for her family and community.
The memorial service was a clear pointer to the unforgettable legacy of Deaconess (Mrs) Patricia Okogba which will continue to shine, in the hearts of all who were privileged to know her and be touched by her remarkable life.