The Chairman of GFO Orim Foundation, High Chief Martin Orim, has joined a distinguished gathering of government officials, military officers, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other dignitaries to pay their final respects to the late Ma Rose Obla Orim in Utugwang, Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State.
Ma Rose Obla Orim was laid to rest yesterday after a requiem Mass at St. Matthew Catholic Church, Utugwang, brought close tributes to a woman remembered for her faith, discipline, compassion and service to humanity.
Speaking at the funeral, High Chief Martin Orim expressed his condolences to the bereaved family, describing the deceased as a role model to many whose legacy of humanitarian benevolence continues to reflect in the lives and personalities of her children.
According to Orim, the values and virtues demonstrated by the late matriarch during her lifetime left an enduring mark on her family and the wider community.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul and asked God to grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss.
Representing the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Prince Bassey Edet Otu, at the funeral Mass, the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, described Ma Rose Obla Orim as a virtuous woman whose life was defined by love, faith and discipline.
Also paying tribute, her son-in-law, Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Akomaye Parker Undiandeye, Chief of Defence Intelligence, and the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Sen. Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, described the deceased as a counsellor and mother figure whose influence and contributions would remain memorable.
The funeral attracted prominent personalities from across the state and beyond, including the Chief of Staff to the Cross River State Government, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar; Chairman of Council, Hon. Peter Akongfe Undiandeye; senior military officers and their spouses; federal and state government appointees; traditional rulers; religious leaders; political party leaders, friends and other well-wishers.
The gathering was a reflection of the respect and affection with which Ma Rose Obla Orim was held by her family, community and the many people whose lives she touched.
As family, friends and associates bid her farewell, tributes continued to highlight a life marked by faith, love, discipline and humanitarian values a legacy her loved ones say will endure for generations.