In his emotional farewell at Santiago Bernabéu after playing his last home match for Real Madrid, club legend and midfield maestro, Luka Modrić, said: “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” He had seen it all, played his part, so it was time to go.
The above certainly rang through for Ezinne Victoria Amandem Ngwahu Owuogba. She came, she saw and she conquered. And as someone noted, “to live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.”
Ezinne could be described as a woman among women. As the matriarch of Owuogba, Umuenene and Umuogi families, she left indelible marks on the sands of time.
She had the uncanny ability of understanding what a child does not say. She was a solution- provider. She was upright and God-fearing. She was special. Indeed, Victoria was virtuous, valiant and valued.
Born on Christmas eve, December 24, 1926, to late Dr. Oriaku Nnete and late Janet Oyiridiya Oriaku of Okprooala kindred in Umudioka autonomous community of Osisioma Local Government Area of Abia State, she dropped her baton on November 7, 2024 at 98. It should be noted that longevity runs in her family. Her mother, Janet Oyiridiya Oriaku, died at 108 while her elder sister, Mrs Nwanbu Nwuju (Bumbu) (nee Oriaku) of Umumuzo is still bouncing at 104.
On May 8, 2025, Ezinne Victoria went home in a blaze of glory. Despite her age, there was profound outpouring of emotions. That day, her homestead, Umuenere, Umuogba in Umungbede, Asa – Amator, Osisioma, Abia State witnessed an unusual human and vehicular traffic.
Families, friends and associates descended on the community as they identified with the bereaved family. Guests included top public office holders, professionals, captains of industry, boardroom titans, business moguls and private individuals.
The dignitaries in attendance were Mr. Chidi Ajaegbu, ICAN golden president; EZE Gabriel Uche Ubani Wokoma, Hon.Chima Oriaku, Ralph Ezinna, leader of ISSAOSA; Dr. Angus Chikwe, leader of Lagos delegation; Sir Friday ikechi Nwaogwugwu and Ven. Emma Amadi, who preached the funeral sermon; among many others.
The kernel of Ven. Amadi’s message was that everyone should strive to live a life worthy of emulation as late Ezinne Victoria Amandem Owuogba did during her life time. Rev. Uzoma Atuzieogu co-ministered at the event.
In his tribute, her first son, Chief Chima Owuogba, extolled her rare qualities. He said that his mother was one in a million.
He said: “With the death of our father in 1968, when I was barely 11 years, you assumed the status and responsibility of both a mother and father in my life. You left no stone unturned to ensure I clinched the apogee of my chosen career in life and become somebody.
“You taught us hard work, sacrifice, commitment, contentment, integrity and boldness to speak out without minding whose ox is gored. You taught us resilience and model to serve God. You were legendary in generosity and kindness. You always ensured the happiness of others and encouraged me to fight against injustice no matter who is involved to redeem my right. “Your life was exemplary in all ramifications, your devotion and believe in God was total. Your friendship with us – our family, friend and foes alike evoked kindredship.
“Your style, manner and time of departure was legendary, emotional and thought provocative. Your final departure has indeed created a void we are still asking and praying God to help us to live with.
“I will continue to celebrate you, a good mother who has gone home to rest. We thank God for the gift of your friendship, the pleasure of your company and for the insights that will make candles burn bright. Continue to rest in the bosom of God.”
Indeed, it was a celebration of the life and times of a mother in Israel.