Oiza Martha Obende : One Strong and Faith-FULL woman I know

Monday, January 10, 2022 - the day I received one of the most devastating news ever in my life. My father informed the clan about the passing of my beloved aunt cum mother. Only words that could come forth at that point was 'Oh no😩😭" <br/><br/>

Why you aunty Oiza? Why now? You told me you were getting better. You told me so. What happened? So many questions requiring answers. I choose to write this in some much pains as my foremost way of honouring one STRONG and 'FAITH-FULL' woman I know. Aunty mi, you were strong! You were full of faith!! You fought well!!!<br/><br/>

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Aunty Oiza, I did not meet you at home yesterday. They said you were no more. How possible? How?? Aunty mi, you were an embodiment of love. You were accomodating. You held back no love. You were the second mother I had this past few years. You made the house a home indeed.<br/><br/>

Aunty Oiza, You were an addition to the Obende's. This is a big blow to me. This is a big blow to us. We prayed, we trusted God. It's hard convincing myself that this is not a loss from God's perspective. I know God knows all about this and his plans and purposes supersedes our desires and wishes.<br/><br/>

The plan was not for you to leave us this early. You left your two beautiful children - Efi and Hephzibah with the husband of your youth. The thoughts and memories of the unending love you showed these gifts brings tears to my eyes.<br/><br/>

Why so early aunty? I know I may never have answers to these questions, we can only try our best to ensure that these gifts become all that you ever wanted them to become.<br/><br/>

<br/> In much distress and pains, you yet believed God. I woke up most mornings seeing you in your prayer posture on the couch. When everything seemed frail, you exhibited strength. You were faith in action.<br/><br/>

I try to hold back my tears but then I'm comforted by Apostle Paul's writings in 1 Thessalonians 4:13 - "But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope." <br/><br/>

The hope I have is you are with your Lord and your Saviour.<br/><br/>

Thank you for blessing my life with your presence. Thank you for being a blessing to me. I cannot forget you my dearest Aunt and Mom. For all you have done for me, I say THANK YOU.<br/><br/>

You have run your own race aunty Oiza, may God give everyone of us you've left behind the grace, courage and strength to run ours well. I will miss you Aunty. I love you dearly Oiza Martha Obende.<br/><br/>

Keep resting with your Lord and Saviour till we meet to part no more on the resurrection morning.<br/><br/>

One Year Update (10-01-2023)

We gathered today at Ikeja to celebrate the one-year memorial of my beloved aunt. Another roller-coaster of emotions. Indeed, the memory of the righteous is blessed.

Memorial Picture

At the memorial service, the formal introduction of the Othiba Foundation Trust in memory of my beloved aunt was done also. Aunty Oiza was a giver to a fault. Hence, this foundation seeks to give back to the society. The Foundation will put five(5) children/students every year through school and pay their tuition. Also, awards will be given to students in the schools attended by her children at every prize-giving day.

These will be continued in her honour.

You can donate to the foundation using this account detail:

Account Number: 9301400228 Bank: Stanbic IBTC Account Name: Bamidele Onaivi Obende.

Proverbs 10:7a (KJV) - The memory of the just is blessed...