Margaret Egwuoyibo Oragwa

Margaret Egwuoyibo Oragwa was born in 1935 in southeastern Nigeria. She was a devout Christian, a dedicated homemaker, and a respected matriarch of her community. Known for her strong moral values and unwavering commitment to family, Margaret was an exemplary figure whose influence extended beyond her immediate family to the broader community.

Family Life

Margaret was married to the late Mr. Oragwa, with whom she had several children, including her prominent son, Cletus Uzoezie Oragwa (Zenco). As a mother, she played a pivotal role in shaping the lives of her children, instilling in them values of hard work, integrity, and compassion. Her son Zenco, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, often credited his mother as his greatest inspiration and source of resilience.

Legacy and Contributions

Margaret was celebrated for her generosity, wisdom, and ability to mediate disputes within her family and community. Her home was a haven of hospitality, where she hosted numerous gatherings and was known for her culinary skills. She was also a strong advocate for education and ensured that her children and grandchildren received quality education.

In her later years, Margaret remained active in community service, particularly within her local church, where she was a leader in the women’s fellowship group. She was deeply loved and respected for her unwavering faith and her dedication to uplifting others.

Passing and Funeral

Margaret Egwuoyibo Oragwa passed away peacefully in 2024 at the age of 89. Her funeral, scheduled for January 10, 2025, promises to be a grand celebration of her life, with many dignitaries, community members, and family friends expected to attend.

The ceremony will include a wake-keeping service and a traditional burial, reflecting her deep ties to Igbo culture and Christian faith. The event will feature tributes from family members, particularly her son Zenco, who plans to deliver a heartfelt eulogy about his mother’s impact on his life and the lives of many others.

Controversy Surrounding Her Passing

Despite the focus on her celebrated life, Margaret’s death and subsequent burial have been tinged with controversy. Reports have surfaced of family disagreements over the burial arrangements, particularly regarding the scale and cost of the ceremony. Zenco’s significant financial input has reportedly caused friction among some family members, who feel excluded from the decision-making process.

Additionally, allegations have arisen suggesting that some extended family members sought to use the funeral as an opportunity for personal financial gain. This has led to tension and public speculation, casting a shadow over an otherwise solemn occasion.

Cletus Uzoezie Oragwa, popularly known as Zenco, recently held an elaborate burial ceremony for his late mother, Mrs. Margaret Egwuoyibo Oragwa, in Ukpor, Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State. The event was marked by significant expenditures, high-profile attendees, and performances by renowned musicians.

Lavish Expenditures

Reports indicate that Zenco spared no expense in honoring his mother. The ceremony featured:

• Imported Tent: A tent imported from Israel, costing over ₦560 million, was installed for the event. The setup began on December 15, 2024, and continued until January 8, 2025. Nairaland
• Funeral Services: The renowned funeral service provider, Apams, was contracted to deliver services exceeding ₦500 million. This included a unique silver casket and a newly imported white Rolls Royce hearse specifically for the burial. Nairaland

Notable Attendees and Contributions

The burial attracted a host of prominent figures from various sectors:

• Cubana Chiefpriest (Pascal Okechukwu): A close associate of Zenco, he gifted 47 cows to commemorate the 47 years Zenco spent with his mother. This gesture was reminiscent of his previous gift of 46 cows to Obi Cubana during his mother’s burial. OloriSuperGal
• Obi Cubana (Obinna Iyiegbu): The chairman of the Cubana Group, known for his influence in the entertainment and hospitality industry, was present to support Zenco. YouTube

Musical Performances

The event featured performances by top Nigerian musicians, adding vibrancy to the ceremony:

• Davido (David Adeleke): The award-winning artist delivered a captivating performance, engaging the audience with his popular hits. Clip Africa
• Flavour N’abania (Chinedu Okoli): Known for his highlife music, Flavour entertained guests with his melodious tunes. Clip Africa
• Zlatan Ibile (Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael): The rapper and singer energized the crowd with his dynamic performance. Clip Africa

Entrepreneurs and Politicians

While specific details about the attendance of other entrepreneurs and politicians are limited, the presence of industry moguls like Obi Cubana and Cubana Chiefpriest underscores the event’s significance within Nigeria’s elite circles.

Community Impact

The burial ceremony not only honored the late Mrs. Margaret Oragwa but also showcased the cultural importance of communal support and the celebration of life in Igbo society. The influx of high-profile guests and the scale of the event had a notable impact on the local community, highlighting the deep respect and affection held for Zenco and his family.

For a visual glimpse into the event, you can watch the following video:

Conclusion

Margaret Egwuoyibo Oragwa’s life was one of love, sacrifice, and dedication to her family and community. While controversies surrounding her burial may momentarily distract from her legacy, her influence and the memories she created remain her most enduring testament. Her funeral on January 10, 2025, is expected to be a fitting farewell for a woman who lived a life full of purpose and impact.

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