Abia State stood still on December 27 as renowned legal luminary and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr Barrister Monday Ubani, laid his beloved mother, Late Nsomma Gladys Ubani, to rest in grand and unforgettable style at his hometown, Awomukwu, in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State.
The burial ceremony literally shut down Abia as the ancient community of Awomukwu transformed into a national convergence point of power, influence, culture, and celebration. It was truly VIPs upon VIPs, as dignitaries from all walks of life poured in to honour the matriarch whose life spanned 90 fulfilled years.
From the moment guests arrived, the air was charged with excitement. The faces of Dr Ubani and his wife beamed with pride and gratitude as they accorded their mother and mother in law a burial befitting her legacy. The ambience was rich, warm, and emotionally uplifting, blending solemn reflection with joyful celebration of a life well lived.
The event recorded the presence of Abia State Governor Alex Otti, while Senate President Godswill Akpabio also graced the ceremony. Senators, members of the House of Representatives, members of the Abia State House of Assembly, and other top government functionaries were conspicuously present, giving the occasion a strong national outlook.
Entertainment and glamour were not left out as music star KCee Limpopo and veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O Kanayo added star power to the gathering. Business mogul E Money was also visibly present with his entourage, drawing attention and admiration from guests.
Traditional rulers, Senior Advocates of Nigeria, captains of industry, and dignitaries from across the country filled the venue, making the burial a classic spectacle from the entrance point to the sitting arena.
Guests were lavishly entertained as caterers rolled out a rich variety of cuisines, ranging from well prepared local delicacies to intercontinental dishes, further reinforcing the grandeur and generosity that defined the event. Indeed, Abia was agog as Awomukwu came alive in colour, music, culture, and celebration.
The ceremony climaxed with a brief but deeply emotional appreciation message from Dr Barrister Monday Ubani, SAN, who thanked God for strength and grace, and expressed profound gratitude to all who stood with his family. He appreciated the Abia State Government, political leaders, traditional rulers, colleagues at the Bar and Bench, friends, and the Awomukwu community for their overwhelming show of love and solidarity. According to him, the massive turnout reflected the values his late mother lived for, turning a moment of grief into a powerful celebration of life, unity, and enduring legacy.
It was, without doubt, a historic farewell, a celebration of life at 90, and a burial that will be remembered as one of the most remarkable gatherings Abia State has witnessed in recent times.
