By Victor Okoye
Abuja, Nov. 8, 2024 (NAN) Thousands of people from across the country and beyond have paid their final respects to late Ify Catherine Asomugha, KSJI, JP as her body was finally laid to rest in her country home, Isuochi in Abia State.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Lady Ify Anya, KSJI, JP (the mother of Rtn. Liz-Ulunma Asomugha, the President of Rotary Club of Abuja -Aso Golf) and Rtn. Chijioke Asomugha, the President of Rotary Club of Enugu, GRA died at a time she should be enjoying the fruit of her labor.
Amongst those who paid their last respect to Lady Ify (Mama Fada) were; Bishop Anselm Umoren of Abuja Diocese, ArchBishop Nelson, Bishop Tasie, Bishop Declan, over 100 Priests, Knights of St. John’s International, Family members, Golfers from the prestigious IBB International Golf Club Abuja, Captains of Industries , Rotarians from District 9127 and D9142.
Liz-Ulunma Asomugha, the immediate past Vice President of African Women in Leadership Organization (AWLO) and former Golf Lady Captain expressed her gratitude to all the dignitaries who thronged from all over the country and beyond to pay their last respect to her beloved late mum.
“It’s amazing to see a lot of people gather to celebrate and bid final farewell to my late mum.
“Her death is Haven’s gain so we are no more crying but celebrating a life worthy of emulation.
“Mama Fada as she was fondly called was indeed a woman of the people,” she said.
Bishop Umoren of Abuja Diocese in a condolence message to the family described Lady Ify as a woman of great faith and inspiring virtues that will be missed not only by her family but by all those who knew her and whom she has touched in her years here on earth.
The Parish Priest of our Lady of Perpetual Help, Washington DC described Lady Ify as a bright star who was never afraid to release her beautiful rays of a smile.
“I am privileged to have met and experienced her cooking skills and joyous demeanor. Mama Fada was a prayerful woman and enjoyed visiting sacred places.
“I remember fondly how she lit up when we drove her to the Basilica of the National Shrine of Immaculate Conception in Washington DC.
“She felt so blessed and grateful to have visited the numerous shrines dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary,” he recalled.
The Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Rev. Fr Jimbili stated that Lady Ify led an exemplary life both in the Public Service and the Church.
“She produced lasting fruits in the society, family and work-place.
“Lizzy’s dedication to the activities of the Church, both at the Parish and Archdiocesan levels bear testimony to the fact that Mama Fada was a great Christian Mother worthy of emulation,” he said.
Archbishop Nelson Eke described Lady Ify as a woman of Grace who devoted her life to teaching and caring for the less privileged in the society and sacrificed her first son, Rev. Fr. Ifeanyi Asomugha to Priesthood.
The President of Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN said Mama Fada was a woman of exceptional strength, grace, and dedication, whose legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
“Her commitment to service, kindness, and leadership as a Lady of St. John International (LSJI) is an enduring testament to her unwavering faith and commitment to humanity. Her life was one well-lived,” he said.
Chief Dr. Chris Igwe described Lady Anya as a virtuous wife , a mother per excellence and a doting mom who is always caring and traveling with her children and grandchildren around the world.
“She is a disciplinarian to the core which can be testified by all her students and from the behaviour of her seven children.
“I am still in shock of her death but we cannot question God,” he said.
The Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church Isuochi described Lady Ify as a woman of Grace and cheerful giver who will be greatly missed in the Parish and Okigwe Diocese.
“May her soul continue to rest in perfect peace until we meet to part no more,” he said.(NAN)
