Commentary: Biography Of A Rare Gem, Mrs Augustina Osegbue

Written By: Samuel Osegbue

Augustina Afulenu Osegbue was born at Lagos into the family of Okafor Orimili of Umudei Village, Onitsha on August 12, 1942. She was the third child and second daughter in the family. Her early childhood was basically in Cameroun. She spent her early childhood with her parents and later with her aunt, Mrs. Angelina Ikebude from Onitsha.

Afulenu started her primary Education at the age of 4 in Immaculata School Onitsha and Convent Primary School (Basic) Onitsha. There she obtained her First School Leaving Certificate coming out in flying colours. She proceeded to Maria Regina Secondary School, Nnewi, Holy Rosary College Enugu and Adazi respectively. Intelligent, young and vibrant Augustina Afulenu Osegbue later gained admission into London School of Economics in 1966. She went to the University of Nigeria Nsukka for an Advanced Certificate in Education among other educational institution.

Mrs. Augustina Afulenu Osegbue, having undergone several trainings in education, came out as a well bred educationist. This feat, took her to many schools. She taught at Immaculata School, Onitsha; Santa Maria Primary School, Onitsha; Okpoko Community Primary School. She was Assistant Headmistress, Obiokosi Primary School; All Saints’ Primary School and Headmistress, Omunwaegboka Primary School, Onitsha. Later, she retired as a Headmistress (Special Cadre Class).

Augustina got Married in 1974 to Pa Ernest Chukwuma Osegbue and the marriage was blessed with 5 children – 4 boys and a girl, though two later died. She contributed immensely in the training and bringing up of her children in the fear of the Lord. Mama ensured that her children were graduates, well trained. By God’s grace, the family did not lack motherly care and love.

Mrs. Augustina Afulenu Osegbue made sure that teachers under her were selflessly imparted knowledge and were committed to their duties. She trained many children and some of her relations. She was always ready to give, love and render services beyond everyone else’s imagination.

Mrs. Augustina Afulenu Osegbue was courageous and fearless in her actions, yet very humble and loving. Her principle in life was simplicity because she passed through convent training which brought her very close to God. She exuded contentment in knowing, loving and understanding God, totally surrendering to the will of God Almighty.

Mrs. Augustina Afulenu Osegbue grew up as a staunch member of the Roman Catholic faith, where she joined the Choral group, singing praises to God at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, Onitsha. In her deep love, to worship and understand God more, she joined the Living Faith Church, Also Known As Winners Chapel. Until her death; she kept a house fellowship every Saturday in her home.

Her deep love for God never wavered through thick and thin, and through the ups and downs of this world, mama stood firm and resilient as a Christian. Thus, every evening, she would chant songs of praise to God, and pray loudly before retiring to sleep, her parting words to all and sundry was “God bless you”. Indeed mama was a woman of great faith!

Mrs Augustina Afulenu Osegbue was a mother to everyone. She trained many children and gave even the last Kobo she had. She accommodated the good, the bad and the ugly with greater understanding and deep love, believing that they would change. Her home turned out to be an abode for all and sundry. Yet, she never complained. She was an umbrella that accommodated all.

Mama was a counselor par excellence, a woman of great intelligence and virtue, friendly and humorous. She was a member of Onitsha Ado Christian Fellowship International and an active member, Elder’s Council, Living Faith Church Onitsha; member, Obianamma age grade, Onitsha as well as life member, Full Gospel International among others.

Mrs Augustina Afulenu Osegbue slept in the Lord on Thursday, July 25, 2019, following a brief illness at the age of 78. She is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, step children, cousins, sisters, daughters-in-law, foster children and many other relations. Service of Songs holds today at her compound, 27 Hotel Avenue, Owelle-Ebo, Inland Town, Onitsha. Tomorrow, Friday, October 25, 2019, her body will arrive her husband’s Compound, No. 3B Isiokwe Road, Inland Town, Onitsha, for Lying in state and burial Service by the Living Faith Church, Onitsha; thereafter interment. Condolence visits follow. Thanksgiving Service takes place at Winners Chapel, 61 Limca Road, Nkpor on Sunday, October 27, 2019 by 10am. Mama, may your loving soul rest in peace. Amen.