ASABA/Nigeria: The late Chief (Mrs.) Fredritha Onyenenye Okumagba did not only raise her biological children. For Mr. Nkem Nwaeke, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, she became a mother at a critical stage of his life and remained one for more than three decades.
Nwaeke, who described Okumagba, popularly known as “Mummy Karofy”, as “more than a mother”, said their relationship began in 1994 when he was an Industrial Training student with the Delta Broadcasting Service, DBS Warri, at Orerokpe.
According to him, Okumagba took him in as a foster son and subsequently supported him through different stages of his life, including his university education, National Youth Service Corps programme, search for employment and marriage.
“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 in a tribute jointly signed with his wife, Mary.
He said the late Okumagba extended the same affection to his wife and children, remaining interested in their welfare and encouraging them as they grew.
Nwaeke and his wife said their relationship with Okumagba was defined by the support she offered to people around her, particularly those who needed guidance, care or assistance.
They described her as a nurse, entrepreneur, philanthropist and community builder who devoted part of her life to supporting widows, youths and other less-privileged members of society.
“She nurtured many, served her community with grace, and lived a life of compassion, dignity, faith and unwavering generosity. Her home was an open door to everyone, and she wore kindness like a garment,” they said.
The couple also recalled her role as a peace advocate and mentor, saying her influence extended well beyond her immediate family.
“She was a diligent nurse who healed with both hands and heart, a visionary entrepreneur, a mentor, and an advocate for a good society. Her legacy of generosity will outlive her,” they stated.
Okumagba died at the age of 77. A Service of Songs was held in her honour on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Christ Missionary Crusaders Church, opposite the NPDC Housing Complex, Ekpan, Warri.
Her funeral rites continue today, Friday, August 14, with her remains expected to leave the Veemel Mortuary at 8:30 a.m. for a brief stopover at the family compound on 12 Ighobadu Road, Okumagba Layout, Warri, before proceeding to the family compound at Obikwele for the funeral service.
The service is expected to be followed by her interment and entertainment of guests.
For Nwaeke and his family, however, the funeral is also an occasion to remember a relationship that began when he was a young trainee in 1994 and continued through major milestones in his life.
“Mummy Karofy will be remembered for her generosity, commitment to development, and her motherly role to countless people beyond her biological children,” the Nwaekes said.
Chief (Mrs.) Fredritha Onyenenye Okumagba is survived by her children, brothers, sisters, grandchildren and in-laws.
