Pa Mafeni laid to rest amidst tears, celebration

By Kelvin Ohoror

The remains of late Pa John Oghenewede Mafeni has been laid to rest amidst tears and celebration on the 1st June, 2019 at his home town, Uzere in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta state.
Late Pa John Oghenewede Mafeni was born on the 9th of March, 1930 and attended the famous St. Gregory's College Lagos from 1944-1949. He studied Civil Engineering at the Yaba College of Technology and worked with the Nigerian Railways Corporation where he rose to the position of Director, New Lines before his retirement serving as Ag. Managing Director on several occasions.
Late John Mafeni, until his death, was a man who detested injustice and was a devout catholic. He always craved for justice and fair play among the people surrounding him. Based on his philanthropic church activities, he served as the Chairman of the church building committee that delivered the new St. Peter Claver Catholic Church, Ajao estate, his local parish, in Lagos.
To which he gave most of his time in the twilight of his life. He also supported the Catholic Church in his hometown Uzere.

Further, he placed a very high premium on education such that not only his children received quality education but, because of his magnanimity, he also extended financial support to cover the education of the indigent children including relatives and others in the society.
The eldest son, Dr Jerome Mafeni and his second son, Mr. Norbert Mafeni described their father as a man whose exemplary life and character are worthy of emulation.
While speaking to Isoko Mirror, the sons had corroborated each other's statements, stressing that their father was a disciplined man, dedicated to his family and rendered humanitarian services to his community and society at large while serving God diligently.

Dr. Jerome Mafeni performing his last rites for his father

Meanwhile, in their combined tribute, the entire children noted that “You taught us the strength of measured silence and conceding for peace sake was not sign of weakness". We learnt from you what true commitment entailed and honestly, we marvelled at the way God almighty worked his miracles in your life.
A member of the family, Chief Fidelis Adaka had described late Pa John Mafeni as a role model to their family.
“He was a role model to our family. He is humble and gentle and I must say that our family is known for sound education and longevity” he said.

Mr. Anthony Mafeni (first left) with his mother (2nd left) and relations

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Alice Mafeni (nee Fischer), six children and fourteen grandchildren but unfortunately lost their first daughter by name Mary in 2015.  He is also survived by a stepmother, brother and sister namely Mrs. Edoka Mafeni, Mr. Anthony Mafeni and Mrs. Gladys Saka Shenanyon.

Mrs. Augustina Onwuachi performing in-laws rites

Dignitaries at the occasion included Prof A. E. Ekoko former Vice Chancellor Delta State University, the President General IDU, High chief Amadhe, Amb. Albert Ukpokolo Vice-President Abuja Country Club, Prof. Oladipo Ladipo, President Association for Reproductive and Family Health - ARFH, Mr. Akporhiere, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Lagos Command, Col. Umar, Area Commander Delta State Nigerian Army, Pastor H. A Adaka (New head of the Odhere Family), Chief J. O Odhegba, Mr. Philip Agbaka, Mr. Andy Isichei, Chairman/CEO Cybernetics International Services Ltd, Col. Abdallah Inuwa, Area commander Nigerian Army Sokoto State, Mrs. Halima Inuwa, the Ochonogor family from Amai, the Osugo family from Ase, the Fischer family from Ugwangwe, and Chief Patani Esugo. Also present were the children of the late Minister Chief B. O. W. Mafeni - Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Victor Mase Mafeni from Cameroun.

Isoko Mirror was there to captured the event.