The remains of Mrs. Maria Alami Elukpo, nee Onucheyo wife of the Chairman of Kogi State Elders Forum, Doctor Julius Elukpo has been laid to rest amidst tears.
The burial which took place at the residence of Doctor Elukpo in Lokoja witnessed large turnout of sympathizers both within and outside the State on Friday.
Friends, sympathisers, relations started arriving the residence of Doctor Julius Elukpo on Thursday (19-06-2025)for the service of songs, a solemn assembly in honour of the deceased, Mama Maria Alami Elukpo nee Onucheyo who died on the 24-05-2025 in Abuja at age of seventy five.
Dignitaries notably from across the country trouped to the residence of Doctor Julius Elukpo in Lokoja on Friday the 20-06-2025 to give their last respect to a woman who lived all her life in service to God and humanity.
The husband of the deceased, Doctor Julius Elukpo in a tribute described his late wife as a partner, his comfort and friend.
“It is with a heavy heart, but gratitude to God, that I write this Tribute. As I reflect on our journey together since 1971, I am filled with both sorrow and gratitude. We celebrated many victories side by side and weathered countless storms hand in hand. Through every season through thick and thin we built a home and raised a beautiful family together.
Thank you for your unwavering love, support, your sacrifices, and the quiet strength you brought into our lives. You were more than a wife you were my partner, my comfort, and my friend.
I will miss you deeply, and I will love you always. Rest well, my Maria Alami (Mama Ayekame)” Dr. Julius Elukpo stated in tears
The clergy who preached at the burial admonished Christians to be prepared at all times for eternity saying death does not give notice before striking anyone.
He noted that the deceased lived a godly life and lived behind legacies for generations yet unborn.
Late Mrs. Maria Alami Elukpo (née Onucheyo) was born on April 4, 1950, in Idah, in the then Kabba Province of the then Northern Region of Nigeria, (now Idah Local Government of Kogi State), Nigeria. She was the beloved daughter of Alhaji H. A. Onucheyo and Alhaja Ramotu Onucheyo, and the first surviving child of her mother, alongside 2 sisters: Mrs. Ika and Mrs. Kehinde.
She was brought up early in life by her grandmother. Maria spent her early childhood In Idah, where she began her primary education. She later moved to Cairo, Egypt, with her father who was an Information Attaché to Nigerian Embassy. There she had her secondary education. Upon returning to Nigeria in Lagos, She was nurtured and trained by her Parents and elder sister, Mrs. Onu Ogunsekan, (Nee Onucheyo: fondly known as Mummy Ogunsekan), who enrolled her in a famous sewing institute in Lagos.
While living at the former Legislative quarters. Legico in Lagos in 1971, she met her future husband, Julius Elukpo, who was then a student at the then famous Federal School of Science, (FSS) Onikan, Lagos and was residing in one of the Legico flats (as part of the Hostels for FSS). Against all odds, their love blossomed, and they were married in 1973. Their union was blessed with seven surviving children.
In 1979, Maria and her family moved to Adewole Estate in llorin, Kwara State. There, she devoted herself to raising her children and supporting her husband. She was a faithful Wife and a devoted mother. She was often described by her husband as a steadfast partner Her children regarded her as their source of encouragement, a pillar of strength. a peacemaker, and a deeply loving and devoted mother. She was an epitome of Role model
Affectionately known as “Mama Takpa in Ilorin, she was cherished by many who saw her as a mother figure. She ran a provision store
from which she often gave out goods to those who could not afford to pay. Her children fondly likened the store to the biblical flour and small jug of oil that never ran dry, as it sustained their home during their formative years.
While in florin, Maria had a profound encounter with Jesus Christ, marking the beginning of her Christian journey. She became a committed member of St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Adewole Estate, Ilorin. Later, she joined Deeper Life Bible Church, where she served faithfully in children’s department.
Maria later relocated with her family, first to Lokoja and then to Abuja, where she continued her services at Deeper Life Bible Church. Until her passing, she was an active member of the childrens department in the Abuja branch.
As a devout Christian, she never hesitated to share the gospel with people of all ages. She was known for distributing tracts and the Christian Women Mirror magazine. Often going door to door or sending her grandchildren, Gabriel and Gabriella, to assist in this ministry. She consistently encouraged her children to live for Christ and prioritize making heaven. A fervent prayer warrior, she faithfully interceded for her children and siblings.
Maria believed her calling was to give and support the needy and she lived this belief daily. She generously shared food from her home with those in need and continually found joy in uplifting others through her kindness and faith.
Having served her generation with grace and love, Mrs. Maria Alami Elukpo transitioned peacefully to be with her Maker.
She is survived by her loving husband, seven children, seven grandchildren, brothers and sisters.
