Being an abridged version of tributes to Late Evang. Ozioma Dora Umahi Mwaeze
By Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze
On November 30, 2025, the busy town of Uburu in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, buzzed with massive influx of people from all walks of life; Governors, Senators, Federal Cabinet Members, South-East Leaders, Members of the Ebonyi State Executive Council, State Legislatures, Local Government Council Chairmen, Captains of Industry, Legal Luminaries, the Clergy, traditional rulers, cultural groups and people drawn from professional bodies across different parts of Nigeria, were in Uburu, the town of Late Engr. Ajah Eze, Late Dr. Ogboqaqnnaya Onu, Senator Dave N. Umahi and Pastor Abel Umahi, a community that prides in general fecundity, having produced notable Nigerians who have and are making their marks in different spheres of life. First Abia State Governor and Former Minister of Science and Technology – Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu (of blessed memory), and Engr. David Umahi Nwaeze, former Governor of Ebonyi State and incumbent workaholic Minister of Works and several other figures are natives of Uburu.
The community is home to one of the best Federal Universities in Nigeria – The David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences (DUFUHS) Uburu, Ohaozara LGA, Ebonyi State. it also houses one of the best Hospitals in Nigeria.King David University of Medical Sciences Uburu
So, tahe death of Mrs. Evang. Ozioma Dora Umahi Nwaeze, the wife of another great mind from Uburu, Chief Roy Nwaeze Umahi SAN, had summoned this sea of heads; they converged to pay tribute and bid her farewell. Oh death, where is thy sting? Oh grave, where is your victory?
Governor Francis Nwifuru, the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State who is changing the fortunes of the state led his entire executive council members, state Legislatures, the Judiciary, political heavyweights including Senators, Members of the House of Representatives, Bishops, Pastors, and stakeholders to Uburu to celebrate the life and times of this illustrious daughter of the community.
Nigeria’s current most outstanding Governor, Alex Otti of Abia State was also present, leading a delegation of notable figures from Abia to stand with the Umahis and the entire Ebonyi state in mourning a daughter whose life was impactful and inspired many. His counterpart from Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah sent his Deputy HE Ifeanyi Osai, to ensure that the Coal City State was in hand to mourn with the bereaved.
Senator Dave Nwaeze Umahi, the workaholic Minster of Works and undisputedly, the practical Professor of Roads Construction in Nigeria, was at his best playing host to key dignitaries in attendance including Staff from the Ministry of Works, Senators, Ministers, professional colleagues, political associates and business partners.
Major General Pastor Abel Umahi, the man whose voice is still respected in Rivers State was at his best in assisting his junior brother to grieve and mourn his dear late wife.
Deacon Austin Umahi the junior brother to Chief Roy and Board Chairman of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital Kano mobilized the Northern zone particularly those from Kano to mourn with them and pay their last respects to the departed matriarch of Uburu.
On his part, the Chief Mourner, Chief Roy Nwaeze Umahi SAN, ensured that the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) President and all the NBA branches including the who-is-who in RCCG were in attendance.
The event was colourful and “I am very convinced that our late sister will be rejoicing in heaven that her death brought together in unity these individuals to her town at this period.”
THE SERMON BY PASTOR DENNIS OKEZIE THE PICP OF RCCG EBONYI PROVINCE. 3
The gentle and slow speaking but effective and impactful PICP Dennis Okezie of RCCG Ebonyi Province 3, in his sermon, titled “the Benefits Of Death” took his Bible text from 1 Corinthians 15 vs 55-57 and further read Ecclesiastes 7:1 where he explained that Death is better than the time of birthday, particularly when one lives a fulfilled life and dies in Christ.
Through Psalm 15, he explained that the death of a Saint is precious before God and that death is a vehicle that convey the Saint to Heaven.
The lessons of Luke16, about Lazarus and the rich Man was illustrated demonstrating that death is a leveller if you die look up into heaven.
Quoting from Numbers 23:10, 2Samuel 14:14 , Rev. Chapter Four and many other passages of the Bible emphasized that it is better for one to die as a righteous person than as a sinner as death grants you eternal rest and that death has no negative impact in the life of a believer as your sins are blotted out.
The death to a Christian is not death per say but but sleep as Jesus Christ explained with the death of Lazarus.
He concluded by stating that when one don’t have Christ and die, they are the most miserable. To the Glory of God, most people gave their lives to Christ after hearing this great warning about eternity from the man of God.
After this inspiring sermon, PICP Adegbite James Adeola the Provincial PASTOR of RCCG EBONYI 1 prayed for the entire family pleading with God that this family should never witness such death again and prayed for the repose of the soul of our departed sister
WHO IS LATE MRS EVANG. OZIOMA DORA UMAHI NWAEZE
An Enigma to the man who loved her, an Esther to the family who cherished her, a Dorcas to the community she served- she lived as though heaven itself had written her story.
Birth and Early life
On the 16th of December 1972, a precious child was born into the family of Late Mr. Sylvester Soribe Ayozie and Late Ezinne Ann Ayozie, both veteran educators and highly respected members of their community.They named her Ozioma Dorathy Ayozie.
She was the fourth of five children, and from the very beginning her life bore the mark of promise.Her mother often recalled how easy her labour had been, as Ozioma arrived on a radiant sunny afternoon,to the amazement of the attending midwives. This remarkable birth was seen as a sign of the bright future that awaited her.
She hailed from the Kekeibe Dynasty of Umuogrioma, Umunemeaku kindred, Umuderim autonomous community in Ihitte/Uboma LGA of Imo State, Nigeria.
Her heritage was deeply rooted in discipline,hardwork,education,honesty and,above all reverence for God.
Her father, a seasoned teacher, and her mother, both a teacher and businesswoman, raised their children in a home where faith, integrity, and service were the watchwords. Growing up in such an environment, Ozioma embodied virtues that later defined her life: diligence, spirituality,compassion,and an unyielding pursuit of excellence.
The words often used to describe her-an Enigma,an Esther,a Dorcas-capture the depth of a woman whose essence defied simple description.She was an Enigma,possessing rare wisdom and quiet strength; an Esther, courageous and devoted to family; and a Dorcas, generous and compassionate,ever ready to lift others in need.
BIOGRAPHY
As a young teenager,she painted above the door of her room the inscription “Ozy1000”.At a time when people thought in tens and hundreds, Ozioma was already dreaming in thousands-a declaration of vision and purpose that remained with her throughout her life.
Humble,approachable and kind,she lived not for herself alone but for everyone who crossed her path. To know her was to encounter love in action; to walk with her was to feel the warmth of a gentle yet determined spirit. Hers was the story of a life poured out in service,sacrifice,and quiet greatness.
Education and Career
Ozioma began her academic journey at Community Primary School,Umuderim,where she distinguished herself as a bright and diligent pupil. She passed her First School Leaving Certificate and Common Entrance Examinations with flying colours,gaining admission to Amakohia Girls Secondary School.
She later transferred to Secondary Technical School,Umuezegwu where she completed her secondary education and obtained her West African School Certificate with commendable results.
Her quest for higher education led her to the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, where she obtained an Ordinary National Diploma (OND) in Secretarial Studies. After her one-year Industrial Training in Aba,she pursued an Advanced Diploma in Human Relations at the University of Jos,sharpening her people-oriented skills.
Even after marriage and motherhood,Ozioma’s passion for education remained unwavering. She enrolled at the University of Port Harcourt, earning a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in History. She also later commenced a Master’s degree programme in History from the same institution,which she could,however, not complete before she passed because she ended up in the hospital on the day she was to go for the external defence of her thesis.
As a student, she was disciplined, curious,and diligent, often studying late into the night.Education for her was never a mere requirement-it was a lifelong calling.
Though she never followed the conventional path of formal employment,she channeled her skills and creativity into entrepreneurship and family life. She supervised her children’s education with keen dedication and supported her husband in various family projects.
Her business acumen shone brightly. She established a thriving grocery shop, which became well-known in her community. Even when health challenges forced her to step back,her resilience led her to start another successful enterprise that continues to flourish today.
Her work ethic-marked by perseverance,creativity,and quiet determination-touched many lives and proved that true success is measured not only by profit but by impact and legacy.
Marriage and Family life
While studying at the University of Jos,Ozioma met the young Barrister Roy O.Umahi Nwaeze,from Uburu in Ohaozara LGA of Ebonyi State. What began as a providential encounter blossomed into a love that would define her life.
Although her parents initially resisted the relationship because Roy was not a Roman Catholic,patience and genuine affection triumphed.Their marriage was solemnised on 21st June 1997 at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church,Jos.
Their union,blessed with four children-three sons and a daughter, was exemplary,admired as a model of companionship.Together, they built a home in Port Harcourt filled with love,faith,and shared dreams.
Ozioma managed the home front with grace and excellence, prioritising her children’s academic and moral upbringing.She developed a remarkable bond with her mother-in-law, treating her with honour and love,and was in turn cherished as a true daughter. Among women, she earned the affectionate saying: “Obiara di buru ada”-she came as a wife and became a daughter.
Her kindness inspired many families to name their daughters after her-a rare honour that reflected the deep impression she left on people’s lives. Truly,she embodied the essence of a virtuous woman: a supportive wife, nurturing mother,devoted daughter-in-law, and beacon of love in her extended family.
Religious and Spiritual ife
Raised in the Catholic faith, Ozioma discovered the joy of worship early,serving in her church choir as a teenager. In 1998,she joined her husband in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and soon enrolled in the Workers-in-Training programme, officially beginning her service in God’s vineyard.
She became a committed member of the Evangelism Department and attended the School of Disciples, determined to deepen her walk with God. Quietly, she served beyond what was seen-cleaning the church before services, giving generously to the Welfare Department,and supporting projects without seeking recognition.
Her home was a hub of fellowship,hosting Sunday evening gatherings and daily morning devotions. She loved and served God wholeheartedly,remaining steadfast until the very end. Truly, her life was a testimony of quiet but profound devotion.
Social life and Personality
Ozioma’s world revolved around her family, church, and trusted friends. Guided by her father’s counsel that “evil communication corrupts good manners,” she cultivated relationships rooted in goodness and meaning.
She was jovial yet modest,approachable yet dignified. She never sought competition, nor allowed envy into her heart. Instead,she celebrated the successes of others with genuine joy.
As Chairperson of the Ohaozara Development Centre, she worked to uplift women and families,organizing skills training, promoting cooperatives, and encouraging small-scale enterprises.She also championed health awareness, inspiring women to embrace better nutrition, hygiene, and regular medical check-ups.
Despite her achievements, she remained humble. She walked with the women of her community,sharing in their joys and struggles, never setting herself apart by status.
In Port Harcourt,her kindness was evident in her tradition of celebrating birthdays with the poor and needy turning personal milestones into opportunities for outreach.
She was a true friend, present in both sorrow and joy, standing by loved ones in difficult times and rejoicing with them in moments of happiness. Her life was a candle-burning to give light and warmth to all around her.
Her last Days
For more than four years, Ozioma bore her afflictions with uncommon courage. Her body grew frail,but her spirit remained strong. She pressed on with family duties,academics,business,and even farming-though she did not live to see the harvest of her last labour.
She masked her pain with smiles, shielding her loved ones from the weight of her struggles.Even in and out of hospitals,she continued to give generously to those in need.
On 3rd August 2025,after a brave battle with ill health, she passed into glory.Though her departure left her loved ones heartbroken, we do not mourn as those without hope,for we know she rests in the bosom of the Lord.
Her race is finished,her crown is sure
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord,the righteous judge, shall give me at that day.”(2 Timothy 4:7–8).
Mrs. Ozioma Dora Nwaeze Umahi was laid to rest at her husband’s compound after a church service at Umahi Nwaeze’s family pavilion, Uburu, Ohazara LGA, Ebonyi State.
About the burial ceremony of Late Mrs. Dora Uzoma Roy Umahi Nweze. Uburu saw the glimpse and glamor of a socialite burial ceremony in earnest. With the likes of Dr. Alex Otti, Abia State Governor, Federal Lawmakers and political leaders in attendance, Mrs Dora Roy Umahi was laid to rest in a grande style.
In conclusion, I must confess that apart from some books that I have written, writing this report was truly one of the hardest task in my writing act but I thank my son Alfred Eze who helped me out in typing this voluminous project and my daughter Mrs. Monica Elechi who helped me to arrange the pictures
I thank God who caused me to cross the path of the Umahis starting with General Abe Umahi who leased one of his Port Harcourt Houses for our use for our politics in Port Harcourt as far back as 2007. Senator Dave N UMAHI who considered my daughter to be one of his Media Aides while both Deacon Austin and Chief Roy are bonded to me as true brothers
I pray God not only to grant our sister eternal rest but grant unto us all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss
Adieu the Great Ozioma, you really fought a great fight, enjoy your rest with our Lord Jesus Christ until we meet you over there and not to say goodbye anymore IJN. Sleep and rest very well.
Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze is an APC Chieftain, member of APC Legacy Projects Media Team & former National Publicity Secretary, nPDP
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