By Ken Asinobi
In a moving funeral ceremony that drew thousands from all walks of life, Margareth Richard Amiejubodie Somiari, a revered centenarian and matriarch of the Somiari family, was laid to rest on Saturday, August 31, 2024 amid grand fanfare.
The event, held in her hometown of Somiari-Ama, Port Harcourt City Local Government Area (PHALGA), was a fitting tribute to a life marked by resilience, community service, and deep-rooted faith.
Born on September 28, 1921, Margareth lived through Nigeria’s most pivotal moments, from the colonial era to independence and beyond. Her life was a testament to endurance, wisdom, and the power of love.
Known affectionately as “Mama ” she was celebrated not just for her longevity but for her unwavering commitment to the well-being of her community. For decades, she was a pillar of support, offering guidance, shelter, and sustenance to those in need.
The burial ceremony was a grand affair, reflecting the high esteem in which she was held. Adorned in vibrant native Okrika attires, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren looked splendid as they marched solemnly, symbolizing the continuity of life.
The air was thick with emotion as the Greater Evangelism World Crusade, Tere-Ama church choir sang hymns, praise, and worship to the delight of the congratulation.
Dignitaries from all walks of life, including politicians, business leaders, and clergy, gathered to pay their final respects while many others filed in their tributes.
Among them was the Minority Leader in the House of Representatives, Rep O.K. Chinda, who described the centenarian’s death as “a great loss not just to the bereaved family but also to everyone to everyone who was privileged to know her”.
Family members, some of whom are based in the United States, shared poignant memories of the woman they called mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
The chief and traditional head of Amiejubodie War Canoe House and Somiari Town, Chief (Barr) Tamunokuro Alex Ajumobodie Somiari, in his tribute described Mama’s passage as transition unto glory,
“She was one of the last generation of those that developed the community known as Ajumobodie Somiari Town. She was the wife of the second son of Amiejubodie and also one of the last wives of Richard Somiari. She was truly a mother of all. We’ll miss her”, he said.
Margareth’s eldest son, Elder Sonari Somiari paid glowing tribute to his late mother, recalling her words that she would work hard to bring them up, and later reap the rewards of her labour through them.
“To the glory of God, our mother’s wish came to pass as God truly rewarded her as we all took good care of her”, he enthused.
In a moving tribute by Pst (Elder) Fubara R. Somiari, PhD, poured his grief over mom’s demise and described her as a gift from God.
His words, “She cherished every moment of her life with us. We were her life; walking hand in hand, together with all life’s toil and labour, she loved her children dearly. She gave us the world and put it at our feet. And with her at our side, there is nothing we can not beat. ”
The resident pastor of Greater Evangelism World Crusade (GEWC), Tere-Ama church, Pastor Francis Asuk, who presided over the ceremony, said the deceased centenarian stood as a living testament to the virtues that Apostle Paul spoke of in 2 Corinthians 5:1.
“Her life has been a journey through the earthly tent, resilient and steadfast, enduring the trials and tribulations with unwavering faith. Her longevity and grace reflect the promise of a divine and eternal dwelling, crafted by God’s own hands.
“Let us draw inspiration from Madam Margareth’s life. Her wisdom and kindness are a beacon of hope, guiding us to understand that our earthly existence, while precious, is transient.
“She has lived with the profound awareness that our true home is beyond this world, in the eternal presence of our Creator,” stated Pastor Asuk.
As the sun set over Somiari Town, Margareth Richard Amiejubodie Somiari was laid to rest in her compound. Her final journey was marked by gun salute, a rare honor reserved for individuals of great significance in the community.
The day ended with a grand reception, where food and drinks were served to all attendees, a reflection of Mama Boma’s life of generosity.
