The Umuseti community of Utagba Uno has been thrown into mourning following the passing of one of its most distinguished sons, Okwa Sir Mathias Onah, who departed this life on April 20 at the age of 93. His death marks the end of an era defined by service, humility, and an unwavering commitment to community development.
A devout Christian, respected educationist, and dedicated community leader, Okwa Sir Mathias Onah lived a life that embodied integrity, discipline, and compassion. As a Knight of St Michael Catholic Church, his faith was not merely professed but lived daily through acts of kindness, mentorship, and service to others.
In the field of education, he made a remarkable and lasting impact. He taught across several primary and secondary schools within Ndokwa West and beyond, shaping generations of students who would go on to contribute meaningfully to society. As an Agric Science teacher with a specialisation in soil science, his passion for teaching earned him the affectionate nickname “Topography” among his students. His classrooms were not just centres of learning but spaces where character, discipline, and purpose were instilled.
Beyond the school environment, Okwa Sir Mathias Onah was deeply invested in the growth and unity of the Umuseti community. He was a key figure among the founding members of the Umuseti Central Committee in the 1980s, playing a pivotal role in organising the first Ezeti Day celebration. His contributions also extended to the establishment of the quarterly stakeholders’ meeting, a platform that has continued to strengthen dialogue, unity, and progress within the community.
As a member of the revered Okwa in Council, he brought wisdom, calmness, and clarity to community leadership. Known for his soft-spoken nature, he influenced decisions not through force, but through reason, respect, and a deep understanding of communal values. His leadership style earned him admiration across generations.
His life was also a powerful testimony to the value of education and responsible parenting. He ensured that all his children attained graduate-level education, at a time when such achievement required immense sacrifice and determination. His example inspired many families within the community to prioritise education, especially during the formative years of modern schooling in the region.
In a condolence message, Ambassador Chuks Ododo, Coordinator of Umu Ezeti Global Connect Initiative, described the late patriarch as “a man whose humility touched many lives and whose contributions to the unity and development of our people will never be forgotten.” He extended heartfelt sympathies to Dr Heelas Onah, Technical Adviser to the Initiative, and the entire Onah family.
Ambassador Ododo urged the children of the deceased to uphold their father’s enduring legacy of honesty, transparency, and God-fearing values. He noted that the late Okwa Sir Mathias Onah lived a fulfilled life, served his community honourably, and remained steadfast in his faith until the very end.
As the Umuseti community reflects on his passing, what remains undeniable is the depth of his impact. He was not just a teacher, but a builder of minds; not just a leader, but a unifier; not just a father, but a role model whose life continues to inspire.
Okwa Sir Mathias Onah leaves behind a legacy of selfless service, strong moral character, and an enduring commitment to the common good. His memory will live on in the lives he touched, the institutions he helped build, and the values he so faithfully upheld.
May Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest and comfort all who mourn him.
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