OZORO/Nigeria: In a solemn ceremony, the remains of the late Mrs Catherine Onojigho Odior, mother of the Majority Whip of the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon Bernard Odior, have been laid to rest.
The burial ceremony, held at Alaka quarters in Ozoro, attracted a notable gathering of personalities from diverse fields across the country.
The distinguished attendees included the Delta State Governor, Rt Hon (Elder) Sheriff Oberevwori, the State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Oyeme, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor, legislators from both the National and State Assembly along with their spouses, Civil Commissioners, top government officials, captains of industries, traditional, religious, and opinion leaders, as well as various groups and political associates.
The officiating minister, Pastor Tennson Erimu, District Superintendent of the Christ Apostolic Church of God, Victory District Ozoro, delivered a thought-provoking sermon on the inevitability of death. Addressing the assembly on the topic “It Is Appointed unto man to die,” Pastor Erimu emphasized that death is an unavoidable reality for everyone. Drawing inspiration from biblical passages, specifically Hebrews 9:27 and 1st Thessalonians 4:3-18, he highlighted the significance of the journey of life as a divine gift, with the ultimate destination determined by how it is spent.
Pastor Erimu stressed that according to the scriptures, it is appointed unto men to die once, followed by divine judgment based on their deeds. He urged everyone to live with the consciousness that life is transient, and legacies left behind will echo in eternity.
Describing the late Catherine Odio as a devoted Christian, the clergy encouraged her children to emulate her dedication to the service of God and humanity.
Children of the late Catherine Odio, including Hon Bernard Odior, expressed heartfelt tributes to their mother, portraying her as a woman of virtue who passionately served God throughout her lifetime.
Hon Odior particularly praised the presence of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Deputy Governor, the Speaker, and other dignitaries, expressing gratitude for their support.
In an interview, Speaker Emomotimi Guwor urged the offspring of late Mrs Catherine Odior to embody the virtues of their mother, emphasizing the positive impact they could have on society. Guwor fondly remembered the deceased as a lover of children and a community leader with high moral values.
At the graveside in her country home, prayers were offered for the eternal repose of Mama Catherine Onojigho Odior by the officiating ministers.
The late Mrs Catherine Onojigho Odio, aged 95, a devoted member of the Christ Apostolic Church, is survived by five children, thirty-seven grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren.
