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From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri
Former President, Goodluck Jonathan; Imo State governor, Hope Uzodimma; Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Imo governor, Emeka Ihedioha were among dignitaries who gathered to bid farewell to Chief Ezinne Catherine Opara, mother of Professor John Kennedy Opara, pioneer Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Pilgrimage Commission (NPC) at a funeral mass held at Nguru, Aboh Mbaise Imo State on Friday.
The mass was presided over by the Archbishop of Abuja, Ignatius Ayau Kaigama.
In his homily, Archbishop Kaigama reflected on John 11:25 and the inevitability of death.
“Who can question God? Jesus answers this in today’s gospel, he said. Death is inevitable when it comes, it leaves us sad, the cemetery is not the final destination.”
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadows of death, I fear no evil. We do not understand God’s ways. In our culture the dead are known to go on a journey. For Ezinne, she has gone to live in His bosom. May God open the doors of paradise for her.”
The Archbishop commended Prof. Opara’s Catholic identity, noting it was expressed in service and worship.
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He added that Professor Opara, who served four presidents including President Goodluck Jonathan, is “committed to humanity, caring for the vulnerable,” and urged leaders to remember that “time is temporary.”
Speaking on behalf of Governor Uzodimma, Deputy Governor of Imo State, Mrs. Chinyere Ekomaru, who represented him said the governor received with sorrow the death of the matriarch at 83, coming shortly after the loss of her husband.
She said Professor Opara, as a Christian, who has held public office, should find comfort that his mother “has gone to be with the Lord,” and that she lived to witness his achievements. Former President Jonathan, in his goodwill message, conveyed condolences on behalf of himself and his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan. He appreciated Governor Uzodimma for hosting them in Owerri, and thanked Abia governor, Alex Otti and Peter Obi for attending.
Jonathan said he knew Professor Opara when he was vice president and was instrumental in recommending him for the Christian Pilgrims Board.
Peter Obi on his own said, “Mama lived well, devoted her life to humanity and bringing up her children in the fear of the Lord. From John Kennedy you can see that she really did a great job. We pray for God to repose mama’s soul.”
Former Imo State governor, Emeka Ihedioha also eulogised Ezinne Opara. He said: “While no words can truly ease the pain of losing a mother, I pray that you and your entire family will find strength and consolation in the remarkable Christian life she lived.
