… Governors Mbah, Uzodinma Pay Tributes

By Amaechi Agbo

Ezeagu – The Executive Governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, former minister of Power and Vice-Chancellor, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, (UNN) Ven. Prof Chiendu Nebo, Former Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Lolo Cecilia Ezeilo, were among to politicians who attended the burial Mass of Late Lady Cordelia Anibeze on Saturday.

Aged 94, Lady Anibeze died on 24^th December 2024 and was buried on February 8, 2025 in her country home at Aguobu Owa, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State

The requiem mass, officiated by the Auxiliary Bishop of Catholic Diocese of Enugu, Ernest Anaezichukwu Obodo, was held at the Christ the King Parish, Aguobu Owa

In his homily, Bishop Obodo who traced the life profile of Lady Anibeze and how she became a widow at 36 years and was able to train the children (Six of them) and lived for 94 years, described the late matriarch as a “strong woman” who was committed in whatever he believed in.

Describing her as a “virtuous woman” who strived through thick and thin in training her children, noted that death is an inevitable end to mortal life but a passage to life of redemption.   

“Lady Anibeze was a dedicated mother. She worked and dedicated her life to the service of God and humanity. Widowed at 36, she soldiered on, trained her children and lived for 94 years.

“She’s a virtuous woman and today she has transitioned to eternity. Death brings to an end our mortal flesh which transforms us to redemptive life. To the family, do not mourn hopelessly, be strong in faith as she has gone to prepare a better place for you,” he said.

In his speech, Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah urged the family to uphold the legacy their mother left behind.

The Governor who spoke through his Deputy, Barr Ifeanyi Ossai noted that Lady Anibeze lived a life of emulation and urged the family to be consoled.  

Lady Cordelia Ogbonne Anibeze left behind five children, a female and five males as well as great and grand-children.

Governors Mbah, Uzodinma Pay Tributes

Governors Peter Mbah of Enugu State and Hope Uzodimma of Imo State have extended their condolences to Saturday Vanguard Editor, Mr. Onochie Anibeze, and his family over the passing of his mother, Lady Cordelia Ogbonne Anibeze.

Lady Anibeze, who passed away on December 24, 2024, was laid to rest on February 8 at her residence in Aguobu Owa, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.

As part of her farewell rites, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Trans Ekulu, Enugu, concluded a three-day prayer session for the repose of her soul. Lady Anibeze was a prominent leader in the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO) and active in societies such as St. Anthony and the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Governor Mbah’s Tribute

In a letter to the Anibeze family, Governor Mbah conveyed his heartfelt condolences, stating:

“On behalf of my family, the government, and the good people of Enugu State, I convey our sincere commiseration on the passing of your beloved mother, Lady Cordelia Ogbonne Anibeze (née Ezeilo).

“She was a woman of enduring and vehement faith who inspired peace and unity in her home and community. Her life was marked by boundless generosity and devoted service to God and humanity. She will be remembered for her unyielding hope, responsible motherhood, and rich legacies.”

Governor Uzodimma also shared his condolences, writing to Mr. Anibeze:

“I received the news of your mother’s death with sadness. Although blessed with longevity, living to 94, she will still be deeply missed.

Ex Rangers players condole family

“As a practising Catholic, she undoubtedly enveloped you with maternal affection akin to our Mother Mary. Her physical absence will be painful, but her spiritual presence remains.

“On behalf of my family, the government, and the good people of Imo State, please accept my sincere condolences. May her soul rest in perfect peace.”