Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, Immediate past Governor, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Speaker Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Gowor were among dignitaries that attended the funeral service of Chief Mary Osiegbu, the Oriuwe of Owa Kingdom.
The funeral service of Chief Osiegbu which was held on Friday at St. Peter’s Anglican Church Boji Boji Owa, also witnessed the presence of top politicians and civil commissioners from across the State.
In a sermon titled “Her Legacy Well Laid,” the Bishop of Ika Diocese, Anglican Communion, Rt. Revd Godfrey Ekpenisi described the deceased as a woman of grace, strength, love, and great devotion to God.
He emphasized her faithful worship and diligent work in the house of God, noting that she made profound impacts on the lives of many through her community service, always guided by the fear of God.
Revd Ekpenisi drew several key lessons from Chief Osiegbu’s exemplary life, urging all to emulate her consistency in Christian worship and devotion.
According to him; “Our Christian life is not measured by how loudly we speak, nor does the size of your Bible determine the size of your faith.”
Revd Ekpenisi encouraged all to continue serving God even after attaining high positions in life, warning that faith is sustained by consistency, and not convenience.
The Bishop who spoke on the value of industry and hard work, expressed worry on modern societal trends.
He said; “we now raise a generation of people that wants it fast. Some parents even celebrate their children’s ignorance. In the absence of industry and hard work, what can we celebrate?”
Ekpenisi praised Chief Osiegbu’s well-coordinated and impactful leadership, stressing that the legacy one leaves behind, positive or negative, speaks volumes.
“The best we can do is to impact lives and do things that are pleasing to God, and people will respect you for your values,” he said.
He noted that the greatest legacy is not money but character, noting that the late Osiegbu contributions extended beyond material wealth to moral guidance.
“Mama’s legacy is not only material but moral; we should teach our children hard work and good character.”
Revd Ekpenisi use the occasion to call on those in positions of authority to make meaningful impacts when they have the means.
“Our community is ours, and for us to change., One best way to show our wealth is to send it back to our root. We should remember our community and the people.”
