Enugu Stands Still as Ferotex CEO Buries Mother-in-Law in Grand Style

Enugu-Ezike community in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State witnessed unprecedented human and vehicular traffic as Chief Festus Oshaba-Onuh, Chief Executive Officer of Ferotex Group, laid his mother-in-law, Late Mrs. Susan Oyibo Ugwu, to rest in a grand burial ceremony.

The burial of the late Mrs. Ugwu, fondly known as Osodieme, attracted massive crowds, resulting in a gridlock around Township School Field, Ogrute, Enugu-Ezike, the venue of the funeral reception. Family members, friends, business associates, traditional rulers, government officials, and politicians from across the country trooped into the community to pay their last respects.
Dignitaries at the event included former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, who was represented by his Deputy, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai; and Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, who was also represented.
Others in attendance were Senator Osita Ngwu, representing Enugu West Senatorial District; Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central; Hon. Dennis Agbo, Member representing Udenu/Igbo-Eze North Federal Constituency; Anambra politician, Chief Chris Uba; former Member representing Njikoka/Dunukofia/Anaocha Federal Constituency, Hon. Dozie Nwankwo; Hon. Peter Eze; National Commissioner representing Enugu State in the Federal Character Commission; Chairman of Keves Global Services, Chief Ikenna Okafor (Ide Akwaeze); and Chairman of Cossel Construction Company, Chief Cosmas Anigbogu, among many others.
The Pontifical Requiem Mass was presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, Most Rev. (Prof.) Godfrey Onah, and concelebrated by over two dozen priests.
In his homily, Bishop Onah emphasised the importance of living a life rooted in service to God and humanity, stressing the need for individuals to know God personally and cultivate a deep relationship with Jesus Christ.
The Bishop further noted that Enugu-Ezike and the wider Nsukka zone have been richly blessed by God with abundant human and material resources, urging the people to channel these blessings towards positive and productive ventures.
He cautioned against what he described as “unproductive distractions” by those who dismiss education and the Church as scams and promote idolatry under the guise of returning to cultural roots.
Speaking on the deceased, Bishop Onah observed that although Mrs. Ugwu died at the age of 60 considered young by human standards God, the giver and taker of life, in His infinite wisdom, deemed it time to call her home.
He reminded the congregation that while many lost their lives in 2025, the year 2026 holds both promises and uncertainties, noting that only those anchored in faith can navigate such times successfully.
Late Mrs. Susan Oyibo Ugwu was described as a woman of many talents, integrity, and unwavering commitment to service.
She served her community diligently as a teacher and later as a market surveyor with the Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area.
Her passion for service also extended to the Church, where she served meritoriously as Secretary of the Catholic Women Organisation at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Enugu-Ezike.
While mourning her demise, Chief Festus Oshaba-Onuh paid glowing tribute to his late mother-in-law, describing her as a beacon of faith and a true embodiment of Christian virtues.
“Osodieme was the definition of a mother to all—a peaceful woman who opened her heart and home to everyone. She counselled with wisdom, corrected with kindness, supported with strength, and prayed with unwavering faith. Her calm spirit and gentle smile had a way of soothing even the heaviest burdens,”
“To know her was to feel welcomed. To visit her was to feel loved. To speak with her was to receive encouragement. Though our hearts are heavy today, we celebrate a remarkable woman whose legacy of faith, unity, and kindness will live on through her children and all who were touched by her motherly nature,” Chief Oshaba-Onuh added.
In a condolence message, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State described the late Mrs. Ugwu as a woman of exemplary character whose life was marked by deep faith in God and love for humanity. He noted that she would be greatly missed by all whose lives she touched through her benevolence.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, in his message, urged Chief Oshaba-Onuh and his wife to find comfort in this moment of grief.
“I believe your mother-in-law was a significant part of your life in many meaningful ways. No words can truly ease the pain of losing such a gracious and devoted person. However, may you find peace in the cherished memories you shared and comfort in knowing that she left behind a lasting legacy of love and kindness,” Governor Fubara stated.
Similarly, the Chief of Staff to the Anambra State Governor, Chief Ernest Ezeajughi, noted in his condolence message that Osodieme lived a life defined by grace, industry, and profound devotion to her family.
“Her legacy of love, compassion, and strength will continue to shine through the many lives she touched, especially through you and your dear wife,” he said.

Senator Victor Umeh, while signing the condolence register, described the death of Mrs. Ugwu at the age of 60 as an immeasurable loss, noting that mothers are often the foundation and heartbeat of the family.
He prayed that cherished memories of her kindness, warmth, and motherly care would bring comfort to the bereaved family during their time of grief.
Late Mrs. Susan Oyibo Ugwu is survived by her loving children, including Mrs. Chinasa Oshaba-Onuh and Engr. Chidozie Ugwu; her cherished grandchildren; her sons-in-law, including Chief Festus Oshaba-Onuh (Ferotex), Jude Omeke, and Osondi Mamah; as well as a wide circle of relatives, friends, and admirers who remain grateful for her impactful and purposeful life.