OBIKWELE, Delta State — Family members, relatives, friends and associates are expected to converge today on Obikwele community in Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State for the final rites of passage of Chief (Mrs) Fredritha Okumagba, who died at the age of 77.
A Service of Songs was held in her honour on Wednesday, July 12, 2026, at Christ Crusaders Church, Warri, where mourners from across the state and beyond gathered to celebrate her life, faith and enduring contributions to humanity.
Among those mourning the late matriarch is Mr. Nkem Nwaeke, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.
In a moving tribute, Nwaeke described Chief Mrs. Okumagba, fondly known as “Mummy Karofy,” as “more than a mother” whose love and generosity profoundly shaped his life and that of his family.
Nwaeke said he first met the late Okumagba in 1994 while he was an Information Technology student undertaking his industrial training with Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), Warri.
According to him, their relationship grew into a mother-and-son bond after she took him in as a foster son and supported him through several important stages of his life.
«“She assisted me greatly through my university education, my NYSC, my getting a job and my marriage. She stood by my wife and I with love, prayers, and unwavering support. Her counsel and kindness left an indelible mark on our lives,” Nwaeke said.»
He noted that the late Okumagba’s affection extended beyond him to his wife, Mary, and their children, adding that she remained deeply committed to their wellbeing and happiness.
The Nwaekes described the deceased as a virtuous woman, devout Christian, philanthropist, community builder, entrepreneur, mentor, peace advocate and a mother to countless people.
They said her home was open to all, describing her as “a mother to the motherless, a shelter to the stranded, and a custodian of peace and unity.”
The tribute further portrayed the late Okumagba as a dedicated nurse who cared for people with both professional skill and compassion, while also supporting widows, youths and other vulnerable members of society.
According to the Nwaekes, she was “a tireless community builder, a voice for the voiceless, and a pillar of support to widows, youths and the less privileged.”
They added that her commitment to community development, generosity and service to humanity would continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.
While expressing their grief over her passing, Nkem and Mary Nwaeke said they remained grateful to God for the legacy she left behind.
“Mummy Karofy will be remembered for her generosity, commitment to development, and her motherly role to countless people beyond her biological children,” they said.
They prayed that God would grant her soul eternal rest.
“May our Omnipresent God grant her soul good rest in His bosom. Amen,” the tribute concluded.
