By Peter Immaculate Ogechukwu
Preparations have been concluded for the burial of late Mrs. Alice Ogheneakpobo Okpodu (née Orakah), who will be laid to rest on Saturday, October 17, 2026, in Afiesere, Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.
A statement signed by Mr. Tobore Henry Okpodu and Mr. Nelson Orakah and made available to journalists in Warri said funeral activities began with a Service of Songs on Thursday, October 15, at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Ekpan-Ovu, Ethiope East Local Government Area, at 4:30 p.m.
According to the statement, Mrs. Okpodu’s remains will depart the Nigerian Navy Hospital Morgue, Effurun, at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday for a brief stopover at her husband’s residence in Ekpan-Ovu before proceeding to Victory Baptist Church, Afiesere, where the funeral service will begin at 10:30 a.m.
The late Mrs. Okpodu, who died at the age of 79, will be interred at 1:00 p.m. This will be followed at 1.30 p.m by an entertainment, in-laws’ greetings and reception for guests expected from across the country, including personalities from the oil and gas industry, the clergy, security agencies, government, the civil service, business community, political class, education sector and other private organisations. The funeral rites will conclude with a thanksgiving service on Sunday, October 18, at 9:00 a.m. at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Ekpan-Ovu.
Paying tribute to her late mother, Mrs. Lizzy Kekeke, an educationist, described her as a loving, prayerful and inspiring woman whose values shaped the lives of her children. She said her mother instilled in them the virtues of love, discipline, compassion and faith, adding that her legacy would continue to inspire generations.
“She was my sweet mother, my best friend, my saf place and my greatest source of strength. She taught us love, care, discipline and prayers in abundance. I am who I am today because of her teachings and upbringing. She lived a worthy life and left lasting footprints in the sands of time. Sleep on, dear mother, until we meet to part no more,” she said.
Also paying tribute, Mr. Godwin Okpodu described his late mother as his first teacher, greatest supporter and role model, saying she exemplified unconditional love, humility and perseverance. He noted that the values she imparted continue to guide him and expressed confidence that her memory and legacy would remain alive in the hearts of her family.
“She was my first teacher, my greatest supporter and my safest place. Her love was pure, unconditional and unwavering. Every value I cherish today reflects the lessons she taught me. Though she is gone, her memory will remain in my heart forever. Rest on, sweet mother, in the bosom of the Lord,” he said.
The children expressed gratitude for the profound impact their mother had on their lives, describing her as a virtuous woman whose legacy of love, faith and selfless service will continue to endure for generations.