In Igbo cosmology, age is not simply a count of years but a badge of moral accomplishment. Elders are revered not because they have lived long, but because they have lived well.
Longevity, therefore, is believed to flow naturally from a life anchored in integrity, industry, community service and reverence for God. It is within this cultural framework that the life of Ojiefi Beatrice Obuekwe finds its deepest meaning.
Born into a generation that witnessed colonial rule, the turbulence of pre-independence Nigeria and the devastation of the civil war, Ojiefi’s life journey mirrors the resilience of the Igbo people themselves.
Her formative years were shaped by hard work, early responsibility and the necessity to adapt in a society where survival often depended on courage and foresight.
Within Umuzocha village in Awka, Anambra State capital, Ojiefi emerged not merely as an elder but as a moral authority. As Woman Leader, she played a stabilising role, mediating disputes, mentoring younger women and promoting unity within families.
Her leadership style was quiet but firm, rooted in personal example rather than rhetoric. Women who served under her often describe her as a disciplinarian with a soft heart — one who insisted on standards but always sought peace.
Character still matters
The recognition of Ojiefi Beatrice Obuekwe as the oldest woman in Umuzocha is the community’s way of affirming that character still matters, that values endure beyond generations, and that a life lived in service to God and humanity leaves footprints that time cannot erase.
For Mrs Ifeyinwa Egwuatu, the celebrant’s second daughter, the occasion was one of deep gratitude. She described her mother as a rare example of healthy ageing and purposeful living.
“We are celebrating my mother today as the oldest woman among the women of Umuzocha village. It is worth celebrating because she attained this age in good health. She has no diabetes, no arthritis, none of those age-related illnesses people usually complain about.”
Beyond physical wellness, Egwuatu highlighted her mother’s leadership and spiritual commitment. “Ojiefi was once the Woman Leader of the village.
“She also served prominently in the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO) in Enugu before retirement. I advise women in our village to emulate her. She has lived a good life.”
Ojiefi’s first son, Chief Obiora Obuekwe, now in his seventies, spoke with emotion about growing up under the firm but nurturing guidance of his mother.
“The major value she gave us was discipline. She taught us hard work, respect for elders and the importance of honesty – that honesty brings trust, and once people trust you, they relate with you freely.”
Commitment to education
He also credited her unwavering commitment to education. “There was a time I was studying in the United States and lacked funds. My father wasn’t financially strong then, but my mother stepped in. She made sure my education didn’t suffer.”
For Mrs Tessy Obuekwe, Ojiefi’s daughter-in-law of nearly 40 years, a woman of rare clarity and moral courage like Ojiefi deserves to be celebrated.
“At 95, she can recall dates and numbers as if events happened yesterday,” she said. “She is industrious, truthful and God-fearing. She speaks the truth without fear or favour.”
“My mother-in-law loves her children and grandchildren deeply. She belongs to many societies. A god-fearing woman, she speaks the truth not minding whose ox is gored.”
One of the relations to the Obuekwe’s Matriarch, Chief Harold Okoye from Amawbia, submitted. “Ojiefi is the immediate senior sister of my own mother.
“We first praise God for keeping her to the age of 95. Most of her siblings are gone but she is still alive and strong.
“She taught us to be upright and to close to God, to live with clear conscience love and always give when we can. She is a counsellor and adviser.
Diving blessedness
Her only surviving brother, Chief Sunday Orji, “Ojiefi, excitedly remarked, “My sister is a woman God has blessed so much and she has touched everyone around.
“Many of her contemporaries and even younger ones have gone. I pray that she will live to 114 in good health like our father.
“Before the war, she had been a business woman going to Ogoja to buy articles. She was the first I knew doing things like men in terms of courage and boldness.
Dr Chukwudi Okoye, a very close friend of the family described as a super heroine who displayed features and strength not common with women.
“As we thank God for her longevity, we need to really appreciate the children, relations and people around her who help in taking good care of her.
“I have not seen a woman as strong and intelligent especially in business acumen like her. She has properties and investments here and there,” Okoye concluded.
The Chairlady, Obekenufiv Women Wing of Umuzocha Village, Mrs Felicia Okafor, described Ojiefi’s life as a park of lessons.
“She has been our capacity leader for many years and we learnt a lot about how to be virtuous, industrious and successful wives and mothers from her.
A member, Mrs Chinelo Anagbogu extolled for instilling qualities that sustain marriage in them. “She teaches to be our best in our respective families. She is a unifying factor. Ojiefi does not like quarrel or fight but always working towards peace.
Aging by God’s grace
Appreciating her guests, Ojiefi Beatrice Obuekwe acknowledged that she is alive by the mercy of God. “All through the civil war, I saw a lot but by the grace of God, nothing sinister happened to me. I have survived decades after the war.
“I am excited to see this crowd of people celebrating me at 95. It shows that I am at peace with people in the village. I wish you long life like God has given me.
“I am actually not suffering from debilitating diseases common to people of my age. My only issue is aging and not sickness.
“However, I advise you to shun evil and embrace the truth and assist one another. This is the reason God created us and brought us together. Remember, nobody knows tomorrow.
