Thousands Storm Delta Community for Emotional Burial of Dame Mabel Egede Amid Glowing Tributes

Boju Boju Owa community in Delta State turned into a sea of mourners on April 10, 2026, as thousands gathered to bid farewell to Dame Mabel Bamidele Egede, a respected former chief nursing officer and revered matriarch whose life left a lasting imprint on healthcare, faith, and community development.

The atmosphere was heavy with emotion as family members, community leaders, clerics, and dignitaries converged for a burial ceremony that blended solemn reflection with vibrant celebration of a life widely described as impactful and selfless.

Dame Egede, also known as Ezinne Ezioku and “Mother of Truth,” passed away on October 19, 2025. Born on July 5, 1943, she was the daughter of Pa Abel Mokwuye Aleh and Mama Grace Aleh (nee Ogboi), and rose through the ranks of the health sector to become a respected professional and community figure.

Prominent personalities, including former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and Niger Delta Development Commission chairman Chiedu Ebie, were among those who attended the ceremony, alongside traditional leaders, professionals, and members of the diaspora who travelled in from abroad.

The funeral drew large crowds as tributes poured in from different quarters, all pointing to a woman described as disciplined, compassionate, and deeply committed to service. Clergy present, including Rt. Rev’d Godfrey Ekpenisi of Ika Diocese, used the occasion to reflect on moral living and the importance of leaving behind a meaningful legacy.

Family members delivered some of the most emotional tributes. Her youngest son, Roland Egede, described her as a strict but loving mother whose discipline shaped his life, recalling her extraordinary hospitality, generosity, and unwavering faith even in moments of deep grief.

He recounted how she transformed personal tragedy into strength, becoming a source of comfort to others even while mourning, describing her as “an angel” whose kindness extended beyond her immediate family.

Her first son, Chris Egede, also paid heartfelt tribute, crediting her with building the foundation of their home through sacrifice and unconditional love. He expressed deep gratitude for her life and the values she instilled in her children, describing her as irreplaceable.

Beyond the tributes, the funeral itself carried a celebratory tone, with cultural performances and entertainment turning the event into what some attendees described as a “benefiting burial,” reflecting both honour and communal respect for the deceased.

As the ceremonies concluded, one message stood out across the gathering: Dame Mabel Egede’s legacy lives on not only in her family, but in the lives she touched through service, compassion, and leadership.