The Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has mourned the passing of the convener of the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room and national coordinator of Proactive Gender Initiatives (PGI), Esther Uzoma.
The lawyer and civil rights activist had reportedly died on Wednesday, following a surgery at a hospital in Abuja.
Her death came as a shock to many who have taken to different platforms to express sadness over the incident and extol her virtues.
Onyejeocha, in a statement she personally signed on Friday, described Uzoma’s death as an “unimaginable loss to the nation”.
The Deputy Chief wrote, “She stood tall in the fight and the demand to bring to reality equality for Nigerian women, She took each day in stride, never always optimistic about growing others and making impact in treating gender based issues.
“This beautiful woman, inside and out, was a wonderful friend to me, a support system to me. One of her beliefs in life was the importance of being authentic with people, saying what needs to be said.
“I always admired how she never judged or forced her opinions on anyone, but offered valuable and truthful advice and these I will surely miss.
“Esther was special. Dare I say extraordinary! How do I describe the most selfless person I know? How do I begin to recount the dozens of organizations she helped, the people she inspired, the lives she touched. This is a woman who gave her time and talents to others because she felt called to do so.
“How can I help you?” I can’t be the only person who heard Esther say those words over and over again – no expectation of anything in return. To call her a ‘giver’ doesn’t do her justice. Giving was simply part of her nature.
“You’ve risen to the immortals and now watching over us. Rest on Esther.
You will forever remain indelible in our hearts and your legacies will continue to live on.”
