By Enitan Abel Johngold
Otor-Igho, Delta State —
Emotions ran high and tributes poured in from far and near as family members, journalists, political leaders, and well-wishers gathered to bid a final farewell to Late Mrs. Janet Samuel Ogodo (née Ejirobo), fondly called Mama Hausa, who was laid to rest at the age of 84.
The solemn yet colourful funeral rites, held in Otor-Igho community in Isoko North Local Government Area, drew a remarkable congregation of dignitaries and associates, reflecting the impactful life the deceased lived.
Activities commenced on Friday, April 10, 2026, with a well-attended Service of Songs at her residence along Ughelli Road, Otigho (Otibio), where family, friends, and colleagues shared heartfelt memories of a woman widely described as compassionate, disciplined, and deeply devoted to God and humanity.
The funeral service proper took place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Otor-Igho Owhe, officiated by Ven. F. O. Ibobi (Vicar), who urged the congregation to emulate the virtues of humility, kindness, and steadfast faith exemplified by the deceased.
Interment followed immediately at her residence, as tears and prayers accompanied her final journey home.
A thanksgiving service on Sunday at the same church rounded off the three-day ceremony, offering the family an opportunity to appreciate God for a life well spent.
The event attracted a cross-section of prominent personalities, including the Executive Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Council, Hon. (Elder) Prince Godwin Ogorugba and his wife; journalists from across Nigeria; the NAWOJ Zonal Vice President (Zone F, South-South), Comrade Stella Macaulay; former Zonal Vice President, Comrade Timinepere Jombo Idoko; Delta State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Comrade Tracy Ikolomi; and the NOA Deputy Director, Administration and Human Resources, Comrade Patricia Nkiru Umunna, among others.
In a moving tribute, Senator Babangida Hussaini, Chairman of the Senate Committee on North West Development Commission, described the late matriarch as “a woman of grace, strength, and quiet dignity,” whose life was defined by compassion, resilience, and unwavering love for family and community.
“She gave selflessly, loved wholeheartedly, and inspired those around her with calm strength,” he noted, adding that though her passing leaves an irreplaceable void, her legacy will endure through the lives she touched.
Similarly, the Isoko North Council Chairman, Hon. Ogorugba, in his condolence message, extolled Mama Hausa as “a pillar of strength” whose disciplined lifestyle and devotion to God earned her widespread respect. He acknowledged her immense contributions to both her family and the wider community, noting that her absence would be deeply felt.
However, it was the deeply personal tribute by her daughter, Amb. Comrade Sarah Ogodo, former National Executive of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), that captured the emotional depth of the moment.
Describing her late mother as “an incredible woman,” Ogodo reflected on the values of resilience, integrity, and faith instilled in her and her siblings. She recalled fond memories of her mother’s strength, warmth, and unique personality, including her words of wisdom and firm guidance that shaped their lives.
“I will never forget our last meeting in November 2025… You looked beautiful and strong. Never did I imagine it would be the last time,” she said, her tribute resonating with grief and gratitude.
She added that her mother’s legacy would continue to live on through her children, anchored on the enduring principles of prayer, honesty, and purposeful living.
As the curtain falls on the life of Mama Hausa, many attendees agreed that her story is one of quiet impact, a life devoted to family, faith, and service to humanity.
Though she has taken her final rest, her memory lingers in the hearts of those she nurtured, inspired, and loved—a testament to a life truly well lived.