Sports Stakeholders Join Ekejiuba Family to Honour Beloved Matriarch
Family members, friends, sports personalities and dignitaries gathered in Amaulu Mbieri, Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State, on Friday to pay their final respects to Lolo Ezinne Catherine Adanna Ekejiuba (née Asiegbu), the mother of GTI Head of Media and Publicity, Andrew Ekejiuba, who passed away at the age of 90.
According to Puyaka.net, the funeral began with a Requiem Mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Amaulu, where prayers were offered for the peaceful repose of her soul. The burial rites continued at the Ekejiuba family compound with a reception attended by relatives, friends, colleagues and well-wishers who came to celebrate her remarkable life.
The ceremony attracted a large number of personalities from the sports and media community, reflecting the respect enjoyed by Andrew Ekejiuba and his family. Members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Imo State chapter, led by Chairman Cosmos Chukwuemeka and Bennet Obiakor a.k.a Benny Naza, were among those who attended to offer condolences and prayers. Coach Emmanuel Osigwe was also present.
Speaking during the ceremony, an emotional Andrew Ekejiuba described his mother as a woman whose life exemplified the finest virtues of Igbo culture.
“Mama was the very embodiment of the noble virtues cherished in Igbo culture, a loving mother, a devoted wife, a compassionate neighbour and a wise elder,” he said.
He added that she played a central role in shaping the lives of her children.
“To us, her children, Mama was our first teacher, our greatest cheerleader, our counsellor and our refuge. She taught us the values of hard work, honesty, humility and perseverance.”
Tributes from family members, friends and associates portrayed the late matriarch as a woman of faith, compassion and selfless service who dedicated her life to her family and community.
The impressive turnout and well-organised ceremony reflected the high regard in which the Ekejiuba family is held, while also serving as a fitting celebration of a woman whose legacy will continue through her children, grandchildren and generations to come.
