From the Family
With hearts filled with gratitude to God and deep appreciation for a life well lived, we celebrate the remarkable journey of our beloved mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, and matriarch, Elder Ezinne Helen Uche Otu, whose earthly pilgrimage came to a peaceful end on February 13, 2026, at the age of 80.
Mama was born on December 26, 1945, into the family of Pa Ekuma Udu and Ma Loveth Ugo Egwu Udu of Amangwu Ohachara, Amasiri, in Afikpo North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. As the only daughter among seven children, she occupied a special place in the hearts of her parents and siblings. From an early age, she demonstrated uncommon responsibility, compassion, and selflessness, playing a significant role in supporting her family and helping to raise her brothers.
Although her formal education ended after Standard Six, Mama’s determination, wisdom, and entrepreneurial spirit became the foundation of an extraordinary life. She married the love of her life, Late Pa James Otu Itiri, and together they were blessed with six wonderful children—three sons and three daughters.
Life took a painful turn in 1987 when our father passed away just two months after their first child completed secondary school. Left alone to raise six children, Mama refused to surrender to despair. Instead, she courageously embraced the enormous responsibility of being both mother and father. Through unwavering faith, relentless hard work, and God’s sustaining grace, she ensured that every one of her children received a university education.
Mama was an exceptional entrepreneur. Long before she became a widow, she had established herself as a successful fish trader, travelling to Sapele and Warri to purchase fish for resale at Ahia Eke-Ukwu Market in Ehugbo. More importantly, she generously mentored and encouraged many women from Amasiri to venture into the fish business, empowering them to become financially independent.
Beyond fish trading, Mama was a hardworking farmer who cultivated cassava, rice, and yam, while also engaging in rice milling and palm oil storage. Her industry, resilience, and prudent management transformed every challenge into an opportunity and made her a shining example of dignity in labour.
Mama’s greatest strength was her unwavering faith in God. As a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria for more than fifty years, she served faithfully with humility and dedication. Before her ordination as a Ruling Elder, she distinguished herself as an outstanding leader of the Women’s Guild, spearheading several developmental projects that strengthened the church. Her visionary leadership contributed immensely to the renovation of the church building and the expansion of its nursery and primary school.
Her exemplary character and selfless service earned her well-deserved recognition. In 2013, she was honoured with the prestigious title of Ezinne, celebrating her virtues, integrity, and remarkable leadership. In 2025, the Women Wing of the Amasiri Town Union further honoured her with the title Nneoha of Amasiri during the August Meeting and Homecoming in recognition of her immense contributions to her community.
One of Mama’s greatest joys was witnessing the fruits of her labour. She celebrated her 80th birthday in grand style on December 28, 2025, surrounded by a loving family comprising six children, six children-in-law, and twenty-one cherished grandchildren. It was a fitting celebration of a life marked by sacrifice, faith, love, and fulfillment.
Though our hearts ache in her absence, we find comfort in knowing that Mama lived an impactful and purposeful life. She taught us to trust God completely, to work diligently, to love sincerely, and to serve humanity selflessly. These timeless values remain her enduring legacy.
Mama, your footprints are deeply engraved in our hearts. Your sacrifices gave us a future, your prayers became our shield, your love united our family, and your example will continue to guide generations yet unborn.
You were truly a Rare Woman of Valour—our mother, our mentor, our prayer warrior, and our inspiration.
Sleep peacefully in the bosom of the Lord until we meet again.
Your loving Children, Children-in-Law, Grandchildren, and the Entire Otu Family.
To God Alone Be All the Glory.
The entire Management and Editorial Team of Weekenders Media Commercial Limited the Publishers of Weekenders magazine and the Chukwu Idam Chukwu family of Amaekuma, Ezeke, Amasiri Consoles the bereaved family.