By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
The First Lady of Ebonyi State, Chief Mrs. Mary-Maudline Uzoamaka Nwifuru, was among the dignitaries who joined the Ebonyi State Scrap Dealers Association to pay their last respects to the father of Chief Ejike Eric Nwigwe, the State Chairman of the association.
The deceased, Chief Samuel Nwigwe Nwokpuru, passed away at the age of 70 and was laid to rest on Friday, January 17, 2025, in his hometown, Oyege Ezza-Inyimagu, in Izzi LGA of Ebony state.
During the ceremony, the First Lady expressed her heartfelt condolences to Chief Nwigwe and his family. She acknowledged the significant legacy left behind by the late Chief Samuel Nwigwe, describing him as a man who served his community with dedication and love.
In her speech, Mrs. Uzoamaka said, “As we gather here today with heavy hearts to bid farewell to a remarkable man, we celebrate his life, which was a beacon of service and love for humanity. His passing is a profound loss to both his family and the wider Ebonyi community. Chief Nwigwe was a mentor, a father, and a leader, and his contributions will forever remain etched in our hearts.”
She continued, urging the bereaved family to uphold the legacies of the late patriarch: “I urge the family to take solace in the fact that Chief Nwigwe lived a life filled with purpose and passion, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and unity that will inspire generations to come.”
The Vice Chairman of the Ebonyi State Scrap Dealers Association, Hon. Nwite Chidi, also spoke at the event, offering his condolences to the chairman. “What affects you, affects all of us,” he said, as he presented items on behalf of the association. “This is a painful loss, especially at a time when he should be enjoying the fruits of his labor. We, the scrap dealers, have come in large numbers to console you.”
Secretary of the association, Nnamdi Ngwuta, and Public Relations Officer, Ifeanyi Ngwuta, also consoled the family. Speaking with the press, they offered words of encouragement: “God giveth and taketh. We urge Chief Nwigwe to stay strong for his family and to take courage in this difficult time.”
In a vote of thanks, Chief Ejike Nwigwe expressed his gratitude to the association and all the dignitaries for their support during this challenging moment. “I thank you all for standing by me,” he said. “Your presence today means a lot to me and my family.”
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Commissioner for Aviation and Transport Technology, Mrs. Ngozi Obichuwu; Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Victor Chukwu; and Chairman Abakaliki Ricemill, Chief Linus Obeji Nkwuda, among others present at the occasion.