April 11 marked the first anniversary of the passing of HRH Queen Njideka Eugenia Appolus Chu, Owa-Emere Do-Owe, wife of HRM King Appolus Chu, The Oneh Eeh Nchia X, and The Egbere Emere 1 of Eleme Kingdom, Rivers State.
A ceremony was held at the palace in Ogale, Eleme, to commemorate her life and legacy, drawing dignitaries from all walks of life, including sons and daughters of Rivers State, royal fathers from various ethnic nationalities, religious leaders, heads of federal and state establishments, politicians, and women’s groups.
Queen Njideka Eugenia Appolus Chu was an embodiment of compassion, generosity, love, and care for others.
Her contributions to building bridges and fostering peace were instrumental to numerous achievements in the Ogale community.
The Queen held several positions in financial, religious, and social groups, leaving an indelible mark on her community through her exceptional achievements and selfless service. She is survived by her husband, King Appolus Chu; her daughter, Ajuri; stepchildren; and numerous relatives.
The occasion was a day for reflection on the life and times of the departed Queen, as captured in a book authored by her husband, King Appolus Chu, titled “The Mystery of Death and the Grief That Comes With It”.
The book was unveiled during the ceremony, featuring reflections on her life and legacy.
Segments of the book were read by the Queen’s only daughter, Ajuri Appolus Chu, and other stepchildren, providing a poignant glimpse into the Queen’s life and impact on those around her.
Emir of Borgu Kingdom, HRH Muhammad Sani Dantoro, noted, “As she lived in peace while she was alive, with people, may she have the peace in her grave.” Former Minister of Women’s Affairs, Pauline Tallen, also paid tribute to the late Queen, saying, “After this one year of mourning, God will give our dear royal king the fortitude to accept what God has done.”
King Appolus Chu expressed his profound grief, stating, “I am missing one part of my life, one part of my soul. I keep breaking down from time to time. That’s why I try to see that for her memory, for the good times she has spent with me, and a good life she has lived with me, I try to put a legacy, to put a structure like this, a statue for this one-year memorial, so that tomorrow she will not be easily forgotten or swept under the carpet. I don’t want that to happen to such a precious soul like hers.”
To keep her memories alive, a statue of the late Queen was unveiled during the ceremony by notable bishops and clergymen in attendance.
The statue serves as a lasting tribute to the Queen’s legacy and a reminder of her impact on the community.
The ceremony also saw different groups paying their last respects with the laying of wreaths at the graveside of Queen Njideka’s tomb. A posthumous birthday cake was cut in her honour, a fitting tribute to a woman who lived a life of love, service, and dedication to others.
Ajuri remembered her mother’s love and care, saying, “I miss my mother, the way she took care of me and everything. May her perfect soul rest in peace.” The royal family, particularly King Appolus Chu and their daughter Ajuri, shared heartfelt tributes to the late Queen, celebrating her life and legacy.
The one-year memorial anniversary marked the end of King Appolus Chu’s mourning period, according to the tradition and custom of the Eleme people.
As the community comes together to remember Queen Njideka, her legacy of love, compassion, and service will continue to inspire and guide them.
The Queen’s impact on the family and community was deeply felt, and her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched. May her soul rest in peace, and may her legacy continue to be a blessing to generations to come.
