By Newsmata
The Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council, on Monday, commiserated with Comrade Titus Akhigbe, a member of the Chapel and former secretary of the NUJ in the state, on the sudden death of his beloved wife, Irene. Mrs. Irene Akhigbe died at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, (UBTH) 15 minutes after crossing over to the New Year.
Newsmata reports that the Chairman of the Chapel, Mrs. Nefishetu Yakubu, who led members on a condolence visit to Akhigbe’s residence in Benin City, described the loss of a loved one as a deeply painful experience. She expressed heartfelt sympathy over the tragedy and urged the bereaved family to find solace in God.
Yakubu said, “The death of a loved one is always devastating. However, we pray that God Almighty will comfort you, your children, and the entire family she left behind. Words may fail us, but we stand with you in this trying time.
“I am trying so hard not to be emotional because as a mother, I can only imagine the pain and confusion the children are enduring right now. This is a time for us to collectively provide them with the love and support they need. God will step in and be their mother and provider. Titus, please remain strong for the children, as they will draw strength from you.” she said.
Responding, Akhigbe expressed gratitude to the leadership and members of the Chapel for their visit and solidarity. He recounted the circumstances surrounding his wife’s sudden demise, describing it as a shocking and unexpected event, adding that she had never been sick.
According to him, “My wife attended the crossover service on December 31, 2023. She returned home with the children, prepared breakfast, and later went out for a visit in our neighborhood on January 1.
“Hours later, she called my son, saying she felt faint on her way back home. We rushed to her location and took her to three different hospitals before she was finally admitted to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital. Despite all efforts, she passed away at 12:15 a.m. on January 2”.
The Chapel members offered prayers for the repose of the late Irene’s soul and pledged their continued support to Akhigbe and his family during this difficult time.