MAMA EZI: Relieving The Life And Times Of A Quintessential Mother
By; Dr. Michael Obuseh
It is said that those whose lives on earth had a greater impact on multitudes of persons, their footprints can never go unnoticed. That is the embodiment of Mrs. Theresa Onyeiweabunachim Okoh (popularly known as mama EZI). A woman of kind heart, love, compassion, empathy and deep understanding.
My path with Mama Ezi crossed during my formative years in the University. Having come from a humble background, navigating the hurdles of medical school together with the vicissitudes of life was no mean feat, particularly for those with firm belief in hard work, perseverance and determination.
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In 2015, the financial resources required for the pursuit of my education and self sustenance at the University, suffered a sharp decline. This experience compelled me to explore alternatives means of financial assistance including the Anioma Students Scholarship Scheme. Having applied with so much optimism and expectation that my application would be considered, it turned out that I was not considered for the funding. At this point, my dream of becoming a medical doctor was almost shattered.
Upon hearing that a young man like me with so much zeal to pursue education and add value to society lacks the financial wherewithal to achieve his dream, Mama Ezi was deeply moved. Even though she hasn’t met me in person before, she immediately swung into action and got me a fully funded scholarship with Azuka & Ify Foundation. She encouraged me not to relent in my academic pursuits and offered prayers for me to succeed.
As was said by Ngugi Wathiango in one of his books, “the hope of a better tomorrow is the only assurance you can give to a weeping child.” This motivational words and prayers from Mama Ezi, greatly influenced and guided my paths from that day to this very moment. The scholarship scheme that I gained through her, offered me the rare opportunity not only of pursuing my education, but also to properly concentrate on my studies. With this assistance, I was able to pursue my education and graduated with flying colours. This feat would not have been possible without the kind assistance, prayers and support of Mama Ezi.
As an ardent lover of education, mama Ezi was a mother to all who was always ready and willing to assist people with genuine desire to succeed irrespective of their background, race or colour.
Sadly, on March 1, 2025, I received the news of Mama Ezi’s passing with rude shock and deep sense of nostalgia particularly when I was already making plans to visit her in the states and show my gratitude for her kindness to a man like me whom she has only met twice in life. It was a trying moment for me.
Whilst we continue to pray for the happy repose of her soul and for God to grant Dr. Mrs. Okobah and the entire family the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss, I take solace in the fact that Mama Ezi lived a life worthy of emulation. As a strong lover and advocate of an egalitarian society, Mama Ezi has remarkably impacted multitude of lives positively. She has shown that where we refuse to offer help to the needy, a larger part of society may suffer.
Thank you mama Ezi, thank you mummy Okoh, thank you Nneoma. We love you Ma, but God loves you most!