By Nkpemenyie Mcdominic
Family, friends and a host of maritime stakeholders, politicians and traditional leaders turned out in large numbers last Saturday to lay to rest Madam Lucy Baby Nwiue in a grand, carnival‑style funeral that briefly shut down the Nyorkuru community despite heavy rain.
The burial activities began Friday with a service of songs at the Nwiue family compound and culminated in a Thanksgiving service held at the Methodist Church between 10 a.m. and 12 noon on Saturday. The event featured traditional dance troupes, a parade by the Methodist Women’s Fellowship and performances by multiple clubs from both Nigeria and the diaspora.
The funeral attracted top figures from the maritime and business communities, customs brokers, traditional rulers from the south and west, and numerous sympathisers from the neighbourhood, many of whom were moved to tears as Madam Lucy Baby Nwiue was interred at her late husband’s country home.
Dr. Festus Nwiue, chief executive officer of Shipbait Nigeria Limited and a member of the Guild of Marine Surveyors of Nigeria, served as chief mourner. Speaking to our correspondent after the interment, he paid an emotional tribute to his mother, describing her as “our very best friend” whose love, wise counsel and countless sacrifices shaped the lives of her children.
“Our mother allowed us to be what we wanted to be without discrimination,” Dr. Nwiue said. “Her unwavering love, gentle heart and counsel are things words cannot fully express. Although our hearts ache, we take comfort in knowing her legacy of love, faith and kindness will live on.”
He added that his mother lived a life free of enemies and that her example of integrity, humility and commitment remains his guiding standard.
The Bishop of Nyorkhana Diocese, Rt. Rev. Uduakobong U. Akpan, who led the funeral service, urged mourners to live righteously so they might one day join the departed in heaven.
He described Decoaness Lucy as a devoted Christian, a caring and inspiring leader whose ministry of love, care and generosity will continue to inspire future generations.
“Decoaness Lucy served God fervently and faithfully in her lifetime,” the bishop said, adding that her life offered a lesson: live in a way that will be remembered for sacrifice and service.
Madam Lucy Baby Nwiue was remembered by attendees as a virtuous and iconic woman whose faith and community service drew people from diverse walks of life to pay their last respects.
