By George Ozalla
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints” (Psalm 116:15). These words echoed through Umudike town in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State as family, friends, dignitaries, and the community gathered to mourn and bid farewell to Ezinne Ihuoma Dora Irole, affectionately called Da Dome, who departed this life on June 10, 2025, at the age of 65.
On Friday 3rd October, 2025, the funeral rites began with a Christian wake at the family compound, led by Christ Methodist Church, Amawom, Umudike. The evening fading sun cast long shadows over the compound as hymns filled the air, accompanied by rhythmic drumming that gave cadence to prayers and reflections. The Word of God was read aloud, reminding attendees of life’s fragility and the hope of eternal rest. Friends, colleagues, and community members recounted testimonies of Mama’s life—her faith, kindness, and dedication to family and community—painting a vivid picture of her enduring impact. Tears mingled with laughter as stories of her warmth and unwavering guidance were shared, creating an atmosphere that was both moving and celebratory.
Before another round of social wake commenced, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, visited the family residence with large entourage to personally console Uche Emmanuel Irole, his trusted Special Adviser on Projects and Special Duties, and the wider family. Warmly received and led into the living room by Barrister Sam Hart, Chief of Staff to the Deputy Speaker, Kalu was introduced to family members and close associates. In his remarks, he especially commiserated with Uche and the family, recalling fond phone conversations with Mama and noting her grace, eloquence, and command of English, recalling how he felt shattered when he got the sad news of the death of his own beloved mother. He encouraged Pa Isaac Onwumere Irole, Uche’s father and the family to take heart, emphasizing that though Mama’s life was a bit shorter than expected, it had been one of dignity, Christian virtue, and lasting impact, reflected in her children. Kalu urged everyone present to make every moment count, reminding them that none knows the hour they will be called home.
The social wake was held at the nearby Community School field, where the mood shifted to a vibrant reflection of Mama’s life. Two large screens flanked the stage, looping Mama’s photograph and biography, while a live band performed a repertoire ranging from reflective hymns to upbeat music. Two emcees engaged the audience with humor, ensuring that joy mingled with grief. Guests mingled, are and drank, embracing one another and sharing fond memories, as the gathering extended deep into the night, reflecting the deep love and respect Mama inspired in the community.
The requiem service on Saturday 4th October, 2025, took place at the open field of Community School, Amawom, Umudike as well, drawing dignitaries, extended family members, community leaders, colleagues from the National Assembly, lawmakers, associates, friends, sympathizers, and well-wishers from far and near. The field was alive with the soft rustle of fabrics as people settled into their seats, the hum of conversation mingling with a gentle breeze. Ezinne Ihuoma was eulogized as a woman of formidable strength, unwavering discipline, and fearless resolve. Speakers after speakers highlighted her role as a devoted wife to Pa Isaac Onwumere Irole, loving mother to Uche and Chinedu, nurturing grandmother, dedicated nurse, community mobilizer, and active member of the Patent Medicine Dealers Association.
Hon. Obi Aguocha, Member House of Representatives representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency of Abia State offered heartfelt condolences, praising Mama’s unwavering dedication to family and community. He pledged to install solar power at the Bishop’s court. His words brought solace and reassurance to the family, reflecting the respect Mama commanded in life and in death.
Uche Emmanuel Irole’s reflections, lifted from the tribute written in the funeral brochure, described his mother as a force of nature—principled, disciplined, fearless, yet deeply compassionate and generous. He noted that beneath her formidable strength was a heart overflowing with love and a spirit that gave freely. Uche thanked everyone who had supported the family to ensure a befitting burial and prayed that God Almighty would reward them abundantly.
Following the requiem mass and the final interment of Mama’s body, guests were entertained with live music, occasional humor, and recognition of distinguished attendees. Food and drink were abundantly provided, allowing all to celebrate her life while reflecting on her enduring legacy.
Ezinne Ihuoma Dora Irole, born on September 16, 1959, is survived by her husband, Pa Isaac Onwumere Irole, sons Uche Emmanuel and Chinedu, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, and a wide circle of extended family. Her legacy as a nurse, devoted community mobilizer, and active member of the Patent Medicine Dealers Association who before her transition was very fluent in Igbo, Hausa and Yoruba languages!
