The quiet Community of Akparata Ada Obollo Etiti in Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State was again thrust into the national spotlight yesterday as Lieutenant Colonel Oliver Obetta of the Nigerian Army Headquarters, Abuja, laid his mother, the Late Mrs. Felicia Ijeoma Obetta (née Nnaji), to rest in a ceremony marked by solemnity, cultural grandeur, and an impressive gathering of dignitaries.
The funeral, marked by solemnity and cultural vibrancy, commenced with the conveyance of the deceased’s remains from Prince Eze Hospital mortuary, Obollo Afor. The funeral procession, characterized by a dignified motorcade, made its first stop at Igugu, her paternal home, where a brief but emotional tribute was held in her father’s compound. From there, the cortège then proceeded to her husband’s compound in Akparata Ada Obollo Etiti, where she was laid in state. Thousands of mourners, including friends, family, and community members, gathered to pay their last respects to the 74-year-old matriarch, described as a “calm, gentle, and model woman” renowned for her kindness and community impact.
At approximately 11:00 AM local time, after a brief Christian prayer, the late matriarch was interred. The burial ceremony transitioned seamlessly into an elaborate funeral reception that showcased a blend of military decorum, cultural heritage, and communal solidarity.
The event drew a constellation of high-profile personalities, underscoring the Obetta family’s stature. Notable attendees included Major General Raymond Nkem Ochei, Director General of the Army Bureau and Head of Audit and Finance at the Office of the Chief of Army Staff, Abuja; Brigadier General Pela Habila, Director of Division Finance and Account for the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu; Rev. Fr. Centus Okpe (an indigenous priest of the area), a close associate of Lt. Col. Obetta; and Prince Barr. Godwin Chinedu Odo LLD, (Regent Emeritus of Obollo Etiti), and several other notable political figures, religious leaders, Traditional rulers, and Captains of industry.
In his condolence message to the bereaved family, Dr. Godwin admired the gentle nature of the deceased and admonished his children to ensure that her legacy outlive them.
Also present was a high-powered delegation from the Obollo Development Association, the foremost development advocacy group of Obollo elites residing in Abuja, who came to commiserate with Lt. Col. Obetta and his family.
The atmosphere was further enlivened by vibrant performances from different cultural dance troupes, reflecting the rich Igbo heritage and honoring the life of a woman who was deeply rooted in her Community. The colorful displays added a touch of cultural pageantry, celebrating the life and legacy of Late Mrs. Felicia Obetta.
Born 74 years ago, Late Mrs. Felicia Ijeoma Obetta was revered in her community for her warmth, gentle disposition, and remarkable spirit. She was a model woman known for her friendly nature, earning the respect and admiration of many. Her life was marked by resilience and devotion to family, values she upheld even after the passing of her husband, Pa Ambrose Obetta, three years ago. Pa Obetta’s funeral had similarly drawn an unprecedented assembly of dignitaries, reflecting the family’s strong societal ties.
Survived by six children—four sons and two daughters—Mrs. Obetta’s legacy endures through her offspring, including Lt. Col. Oliver Obetta, whose distinguished military career mirrors the family’s commitment to service. Her passing, following a prolonged illness managed at Annunciation Hospital, Enugu, has left a void in the hearts of many who knew her, yet her memory remains etched in the minds of all who were privileged to encounter her gentle soul.
For many attendees, the ceremony was a poignant reminder of the transient nature of life and the enduring impact of a life well-lived. As Lt. Col. Obetta and his siblings bid their mother farewell, the community rallied around them, echoing the words of Rev. Fr. Centus Okpe: “We mourn not as those without hope, but as people who cherish the memories of a virtuous woman.”
© The Concourse Media Team
