Barrister Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo was a woman of substance – the founder of Trixtresse Associates Chambers, her law firm, a notary public, the former treasurer of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Abuja Branch, and also the former Vice President of the Catholic Lawyers Association of Nigeria.

Nwamaka, the second child and the first daughter of late Pa Adolphus Nnaemeka Ikegbuna Chigbo, Okaa Onyeogadilimma of Abidi village, and Late Mrs. Victoria Chinelo Chigbo (nee Moughalu), and the granddaughter of Chief Mark Moughalu of Anaogu village and Ma Christiana Idemili (Mama Lagos) of Umuoli village, all in Umuoji in Idemili North of Anambra State, has been in legal practice since 2003 when she was called to the Bar. She was the external legal adviser to Bolton White Hotel, Abuja, until her untimely, gruesome death at the hands of kidnappers, who snuffed life out of her on January 5, 2026.

Princess of the Bar, as she was fondly called by her colleagues and friends, Barrister Chigbo, was, according to the Global Association of Female Attorneys (GAFA), a distinguished Nigerian Legal practitioner, scholar, and advocate whose life was marked by service, intellectual excellence, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Her unassailable footprints in the sands of legal practice were amply chronicled by GAFA, thus: “She was known for her quiet strength, disciplined professionalism, and a heart deeply invested in the dignity and protection of the vulnerable. Princess Mediatrix was trained in law with a passion that extended beyond practice into scholarship. At the time of her passing, she was an LL.M candidate at the Faculty of Law, University of Abuja, where she pursued advanced legal studies with uncommon diligence.  Her academic journey reflected a mind committed to critical inquiry and a spirit eager to deploy the law as an instrument for social transformation. She was respected by her peers and lecturers alike for her intellectual clarity, humility, and consistency. As a legal practitioner, Chigbo distinguished herself by her ethical posture and commitment to excellence. She approached legal practice not merely as a profession, but as a calling – one that demanded integrity, courage, and compassion. She was particularly passionate about issues affecting women, children, and marginalised persons, and she consistently lent her voice, time, and expertise to causes that promoted access to justice and human rights protection.

She used her legal practice to represent the less privileged in society and had, on occasion, travelled to her hometown to offer legal services on a pro bono basis and also performed other community services to uplift the lives of the downtrodden.

This is why GAFA, where she was the International Secretary, described her as an active member of professional legal associations where she contributed meaningfully to advocacy, mentorship, and institutional development. Her colleagues remember her as calm yet resolute, gentle yet firm – someone whose presence inspired confidence and whose counsel was always thoughtful and principled – a woman who listened more than she spoke, but whose words carried weight when she did. Her life, though tragically cut short, was rich in meaning and impact. She was committed to justice, a scholar devoted to learning, and a woman whose legacy will continue to speak through the lives she touched and the values she embodied. Her memory remains a call to courage, integrity, and the relentless pursuit of justice.

 

Education and Career

 

Chigbo attended Pioneer Primary School, Odakpu, Onitsha, from where she entered Ujom Grammar School, Asaba, in elementary class five. Having cleared all her papers in one sitting of the West African Examination Council WAEC, she gained admission to study Food Technology at the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu, where she bagged a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Food Technology. She travelled to Kaduna State for the National Youth Service Corps and performed her mandatory one-year national service with the Kaduna Polytechnic, Tudun Wada, Kaduna South. Thereafter, she variously worked as a teacher at Saint Ann’s College, Kakuri, Kaduna, and ran her own private catering business before she gained admission to study Law at the Faculty of Law, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. On completion, she moved to Abuja for her Nigerian Law School mandatory vocational training. She attended the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (ICMC) and was sworn in as a Chartered Mediator in 2016. Ever since that time, she had amicably resolved matters satisfactorily for parties in dispute. A hardworking lawyer with a scholarly disposition, she was an LLM candidate at the Faculty of Law, University of Abuja, before her untimely death.

 

Professional and Religious Affiliations

Princess belonged to many professional bodies, including the Global Association of Female Attorneys (GAFA), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Abuja Branch, International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Otu Okaiwu (Igbo Lawyers), 2003 Law Class, ABU, Zaria, African Women Lawyers (AWLA), and National Association of Catholic Lawyers.

 

Nwamaka exemplified fortitude, moral rectitude, and a deep faith in God amidst an avalanche of life’s vicissitudes that assailed her. She remained dogged, cheerful, and hardworking, believing that God would see her through despite odds. She believed so much in family and lived the Igbo saying of Onuluakwa nwanne gbata. Her beliefs are rooted in her being an ardent Catholic who actively belonged to many pious societies, including Holy Infant Jesus Society, Legion of Mary, Confrantanity of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, St. Joseph Association, Holy Face of Jesus (all in Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Procathedral, Area 3, Abuja), Sacred Heart of Jesus and Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi Community at St Mary John Vianney Catholic Church, Lugbe, Abuja. She authored a book on Infant Jesus and was so happy when the book was acknowledged at one of their Association’s prayer retreats a few years ago, and many members bought the book. In sum, she was a prayer warrior religiously.

 

With a strong sense of kinship, Nwamaka is an embodiment of humility, self-effacing, unassuming, forthright, disciplined, and very communal. She believes so much in communal life and will often times when she returns to the village will visit all members of her kinsmen when she returns to the village to felicitate with them and render help and advice where it is needed. A fearless and generous heart, she will not prevaricate in speaking the truth at all times, no matter whose ox is gored, and she gave her all to humanity in her search for justice for all and will rather go hungry than see a family or someone without food. Very gregarious, she epitomises a beautiful heart who adjusts as the situation demands to laugh with those celebrating their achievements and mourn with those mourning, and gives them words of comfort and encouragement, and will journey a thousand miles at great risk and personal discomfort to achieve these on numerous occasions.  Unbelievably gifted, she could sew her clothes and easily whip up delicious, nutritious food to entertain visiting friends and family members, and she will not stop offering advice on how to eat well and maintain a healthy life-work balance. Her culinary gifts made her the Master baker of wedding cakes for family members who got married. In fact, some family members, both nuclear and extended, sought her out on festive occasions, especially Christmas, to have a taste of her deliciously baked cake. A very sensitive soul, she could easily be hurt and forgiving at the same time, offering everything to God, and some people took advantage of her kind nature. Her primary aim is to ensure everyone around her is happy at her own expense. She supported the work of all family members and was the greatest cheerleader of Realnews and the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, whom she fought a professional battle to get them registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission. That is why the founders of GOCOP held her in high esteem. She will be missed by all who knew her, especially her immediate nuclear family. May her soul rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord God Almighty, the creator of Heaven and earth, who will not allow the murderers to escape justice that she stood for all through her legal practice. Amen. Adieu.

 

***The profile was written by Maureen Chigbo, PhD.

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Tributes from Family Members

 

My Good Sister

 

By Celestine Chigbo

 

It is a good thing that God has called you.  We, therefore, do not question God. God knows best. We all know you are with the Lord in heaven. Concerning the processes and way you handled things, that shows you went to Church on Sunday and in the evening of Monday to Evening Mass, where you booked Thanksgiving Mass, which shows you prepared your way to heaven.

 

Not only do you render numerous helps to people in diaspora, but you are at the forefront to help the poor, you protect, and you portray the right ideal for people to follow.

 

My sister, Barrister Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo, defended a pure water company, Chivoc, from being intimidated by the Chivita Company for answering a company name similar to theirs.  And they were told to change the name, and this was argued in the court, and she won the case. Till today, the pure water company name has retained its name CHIVOC.

 

Your strict to life style, for I remember one thing that happened last between two of us.  I wanted to collect all alone, but you refused and said, what was given to us, you want it alone. That you say no to it.  Because of these, I relented.

 

I say rest in the bosom of the lord.

 

***Celestine Chigbo (senior) is the eldest brother of the late Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo

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Your Death wasn’t discussed, or was it?

 

By Maureen Chigbo

 

We had a hearty discussion about what we intended to achieve together in 2026. We agreed on meaty lofty things we had to do. But your death wasn’t part of it, or was it? That is why I will insist on not paying any platitude here, and I will also not bury you. No, not today. Maybe when the deed is done, and I can look back and tell you cheerfully that I have finally accomplished the huge task that was before us, which we were going to discuss that evening, in addition to seeing to it that justice is done to those who killed you in such a gruesome way on January 5, 2026.

 

It wasn’t God’s will that you should die a violent death. Or was it? Perhaps, you owe me an answer, now that you are closer to God, to ascertain from Him if this is the way he planned for you to leave the earth when he formed and put you in our mother’s womb and called you by name.

 

Can you also tell me if you are happier there than you would have been here on this forlorn world? Did you really want me to forge on? Alone? How do you propose that I achieve that? Didn’t you always tell me that we would grow old together? Was it just an empty promise? Did you have to leave so soon without warning? Did you think about how empty the world will be without you? Have you forgotten how I loved to surprise you by knocking on the gate at your residence each time I flew into Abuja very early in the morning? Tell me, won’t you miss all the hugs and storytelling and laughter? And sometimes rational enervating arguments?

 

You were a very high-spirited, faith-filled woman, were you not? How did Our Mother Mary not help you? You called on her, didn’t you? I also called on Mary, Mother of God, to save you. Udo affirmed our Christian faith, too, on that fateful day. Was it our affirmations that got the kidnappers angry? Was it what led to your brutal murder? Were there other circumstances that made them crack your skull, strangulate you, and brutalise your body? Is this a hate crime? Did the murderers have anything to do with your work and the case you returned to Abuja to prepare for? Is it office-related? Didn’t you often complain about a difficult case you were handling in a certain court? Or does it have to do with your profession, your law practice, or the proposal you were to defend? What exactly happened that fateful day? Why did the kidnappers not call us? Why were all the calls originated from my siblings and me? If the kidnappers actually wanted money, could they not have called us back or given room for negotiation? Who sent them to murder you? What really happened that day, I ask you? Who or what is the source of the pictures that were posted on the internet?

 

Why is there discordance in the storytelling by the Police, the suspects arrested, whom I interviewed, and verifiable evidence that showed where you were at Area 3, Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Pro-Cathedral Church, for Evening Mass and prayer meetings of religious groups, after which the incident took place?  Were you at Kubwa, as the police stated in their press release, or at Dei Dei, as the suspects stated? Where were you? Can the phones of the suspects, your phone, be used to verify the truth? Was the investigation rushed or haphazard? Was there a cover-up? What is the real truth? Didn’t the Mortician who first embalmed you say your neck was broken? Did the Coroner also not later say that your death was due to the broken skull and haemorrhage? Why were your eyes so swollen and bloodshot? And your lips and body bruised?   Why is the address in the coroner’s autopsy report different from your residential address? Is this not a case of homicide? Why was I told that it does not matter? Does it really not matter, dear sister? Was your law practice not for justice for the vulnerable? Justice for humanity? Oh, dear sister, I still have plenty of questions that I need urgent answers to help me come to terms with what really happened, and perhaps I can put a closure to this unsavoury episode and finally bury you. Are they answers not crying justice for the dead? Are they not demanding Justice for the living? Justice for the vulnerable in society? Justice for humanity, so your soul can rest in peace?

 

As of today, I am not part of the burial. Just fulfilling all righteousness to allow your corpse to be laid to rest. After which, the real fact-finding journey begins. Beloved sister, I can’t say goodbye until the deed is done. Only then will you die to live with the saints, everlasting gazing and worshipping at the feet of Jesus, Almighty God, to die no more. Until then, show me the way to unravel the truth. So, help me, God! Amen.

 

***Maureen Chigbo, PhD, is the immediate younger sister of Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo.

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Still Lost, Devastated, and Weak, My Beloved Sister

 

By Anthonia Ejenike

 

NNE NWANNE M, I have thought about this life and the last hour of your life on this Mother Earth and I am still at a lost, devastated and weak to put down our warmth and lofty desires for one another, our family and our late nephew’s child education (late Paul Çhigbo a.k.a Elisiaku’s) child in addition to other responsibilities which I do not know how you satisfy them.

 

All your siblings, friends, and these beneficiaries are still confused as to what to do with the present situation.

 

You didn’t have NO for an answer when it comes to the sacrifice of your pleasure, talent, and time, alms giving, and charity, generally.

 

You always gave to all you have to people just to see them happy, even at your expense.

 

We, your siblings, are charitable, but yours had no comparison; sometimes I looked at you and pondered and prayed to emulate one-tenth of your charitable life.

 

In the last few days of your life, you expressed this charity right inside the Church. The Parish Priest among other things made a statement that it appears that God has no person to donate somethings in the Church, you were among the first three to answer this call, in furtherance to the above you went to the priest and requested the type of drink that he will need to help him host all the priests, religious and the seminarians who where to attend the meeting and you supplied accordingly.

 

The most important thing about your charity work is that you never advertised it. We know about it accidentally, or when you wanted us to accomplish the work, or do the needful to see it well implemented.

 

You lived out your name, MEDIATRIX, to the letter, in that you mediated for people and saw that the issues were resolved amicably so that relationships were maintained.

 

You most often than not cautiously tell people where they got it wrong and advise the person to stop.

Equally wonderful about you is the ability to ask for forgiveness and or express some good measures when you wrong any person, so that life goes on.

 

Social Life

You were versatile, and this manifested in your social Life. We anchored parties together and attended so many social functions together, both legal and non-legal functions, and felt good.

We all got “unbarred” jollificafed last NBA Annual General Conference in 2025. In all these functions, we did it without offending God, for we laughed and joked together. It was all fun, and at the end of the day, you bought things for me and reminded me that you are my elder sister.

 

Even this last December, you set the entire family agog with different kinds of gifts, cake’s sweets coupled with quality and good clothes which I could not simply afford. I do not know where to start or end because in a split second, you have gone to the extended family members, Umuada, and showered them with gifts and came back happy that you made others happy to the glory of God.

 

Indeed, we were truly happy. You never requested anything in return except that I know that you accept the fact that their prayers are heard by God.

You do not believe that the evil charms and amulets could afflict you in any way. You believed so much in God that some of our colleagues saw you as a holy woman. May the name of God be praised for this exemplary life and for having implicit trust in Him, and may Mother Mary be honoured both now and forevermore.

 

Legal Practice 

 

You were called to the BAR in the year 2003, but your achievements in practice are unequalled.

 

You were an articulate, brilliant, and fearless lawyer. You boldly addressed the Court and won cases in Court, and appealed Court Rulings and decisions that were awkward and wrongly delivered, and indeed won some of them.

Sky was to be the beginning of your limit but for this gruesome end, but never mind the murderers did not truly got at you, as they thought rather you went straight to God because it was the appointed time just like your Master and personal saviour who moved away unhurt before crowd, you wonderously escaped the raw attacks of your enemies and one chance hoodlums in Abuja more than twice.

 

Our Lord Jesus Christ cried out while he was being crucified, and St Mathias Kalemba Mulumba cried KATONDA, KATONDA, while he was being tortured to death, and those murderers made a jest of and mocked them and stated that they wanted to see KATONDA, which means God, come physically to help them. Indeed, God helped them, and today Christ is our Lord and Savior, while St Mulumba is a Saint of the Catholic Church and sits in heaven.  In the same way, in your last moment, while coming from the church after Evening Mass and met your assailants, one of your last prayers were Mother Mary help me, Mother Mary help me until I switched off the phone in fear, thinking that you had an accident and then immediately called our siblings to call her neighbours, who they know at Abuja to come to her aid. Mother Mary has never deserted anybody who called for her aid or sought her intercessions, and so Mother Mary was with you, took your prayers, and delivered you straight to God without their knowledge, and this is a rare privilege.

 

Within a few minutes, my immediate elder sister called me and said that it was kidnappers and that they asked for ransom. I was confused because I was happily discussing with Princess just before this incident.

 

You told me how difficult the journey to  Abuja on the 4th of January went, and we concluded that the most important thing was making the journey safe and at this juncture one official call was interjecting and disturbing the flow of our discussion, and I begged you to allow me to tell them the date of their mediation and in your understanding nature, you obliged. This did not last up to a minute, and on seeing that your phone was still on, I naturally continued the discussion, only to be stopped by your plea to Mother Mary to help you

 

Calls were made, and I believed that things were under control, but Lo and Behold the reverse was the case because when I called you again, what followed were barrage of curses from an unknown cranky voice….  “Have you paid the money, or will we kill her?” I was confused as I did not discuss any ransom with anybody. I begged them not to harm my sister, and before I could conclude, the line was switched off. Later, I understood that my immediate elder sister called my sister’s phone and they told her about the ransom. I made another call and heard my sister’s stifled voice saying: “…Nwannem asii si kwunye Ten million na my first bank account number.” I do not know the account number, and my sister was not allowed to give me the account number before the phone went off. At this point, I prayed and called for prayers from priests, and equally waited for perhaps further communication with the assailants.

 

Sincerely speaking, I did not think that I would lose you to the hands of these demons as I believed that we had made reasonable contact with security agents who assured that they are on top of the matter.

 

I equally made calls to Rev. Fathers who told me not to lose courage.

In fact, one of the Rev. Fathers whom I contacted told me that during his episode, his kidnappers had to go to town to get his phone charged to enable them to negotiate further on the ransom, and so I prayed all through the night to no avail. To cut a long story short, I was devastatingly informed that they murdered my sister, despite the belief that the security agents were at it. I do not know what to write other than to take solace that this is your appointed time because you met so many challenges in this life and scaled through.

 

As it is, I can’t say any more than fare thee well till we meet to part no more.

 

Your stand for justice will not be in vain. The fight for vengeance is not yours. It’s for the Lord, and this you will surely get when it starts. Anyone who in any way or other is involved in this dastardly act will have no place to go.

 

Ezigbo NWANNE efunarigom.

 

Nwamaka nwannem jee nke oma

Fare-thee-well well

Adieu, till we meet to part no more. Until then, May God’s blessings and perpetual face continue to shine on you, and May your Soul rest in perfect peace in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen 🙏 and Amen 🙏🙏💖.

 

***Barrister (Mrs) Anthonia C. Ejenike Esq is the second younger sister of the late Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo.

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To All Time Great Mediatrix of All Graces

By Gerald Chigbo

The brilliant, intelligent, deep visionary, foresighted, motivational, eloquent, passionate, strong-willed, forthright, principled, courageous, bold, fearless, decisive, precise, executive, and sacrificial leader, and above all, prayerful sister. Everything about you was well planned and executed, and no wonder that you became a graduate having bagged an HND in Food Technology just at the age of 16 years and served the nation meritoriously at the age of 17 years.

 

Furthermore, after a few years of working experience, you were admitted to Ahmadu Bello University as a law student, graduated, and became a lawyer.

 

The woman who saw tomorrow and tried to make it better today. It is only the Almighty God that knows best and allows such painful death to happen on that faithful day of 5th January, 2026.

 

Rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord, the people’s legend, while your spirit lives on and motivates posterity.

 

From your younger brother.

 

***Gerald Chigbo is the younger brother of Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo

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A Great Loss to Family and the World

 

By Nwakaego Chigbo

 

Sister Nwannem, I never expected your sudden departure like this, because we had many things planned out to achieve. I know you are not destined to die young, but men of the underworld took your life away. Now, you are in the bosom of the Lord, where there’s no grief, pain, sorrow, insecurity, hardship, or wickedness again.

 

Obviously, sister, you are a great loss to the family and the world at large, because your kind-heartedness to humanity knew no bounds. In fact, losing you has left an indelible mark on our hearts.

 

Therefore, you are irreplaceable, one will never touch, feel, or experience in this Life again, especially the Chigbo/Chiakwelus. The Mediatrix that stood in the gap for everyone.

 

Rest on, oh! Dear big sister.

Jee nke oma sister anyi.

Jee nke oma nwanyioma.

Jee nke oma Princess.

 

Adieu, Ezigbo Madu.

 

***Nwakaego Chigbo is the youngest sister of Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo.

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The Appointed Time

By Engr. Ifeanyi Ejenike

It was the appointed time, the fullness of time, for my sister-in-law, late Barr Princess Mediatrix Nwamaka Chigbo.

 

Yes, late Amaka lived her name, Mediatrix, to the fullest, fought many battles both physical and spiritual, mediated and interceded for all kinds of persons, especially the Chigbos, and survived but this time, at the fullness of time, at the appointed time, even the plea for intercession from our most powerful blessed Virgin Mary could only clear her way to god’s presence in eternity. Yes, Mother Mary prayed for her at the hour of her death, the will of god had to be done. Most martyrs, saints, and even our Lord, Jesus Christ, had the same peculiar experience. Yes, this death had to be the will of God because she was heard pleading, “Mother Mary, help me” when life was snuffed out by her murderers/assassins. If our prayers in “the Memorare” are true, then this death had to be the will of God and ought to be glorified regardless.

 

Late Nwamaka left Umuoji for Abuja on Sunday, 4th January after 6:00 a.m Mass because she had a proposal to present/defend at Abuja the following Monday, 5th January; that was after donations to support her home parish and after supporting the parish priest with a crate of “flying fish bear” to host the Umuoji men & women in vocation at the parish. Amaka was charity personified; she would usually charitably give away all the money in her purse to beggars after evening masses at Area 1 and then ask me for money to transport herself home when I was in Abuja. Her reasons…she felt she was better off and could easily replenish.

 

Her younger sister, Tonia, my wife, called her at about 7:17 pm to inquire how her previous day’s trip and the day, 5th January, went. She was hilariously full of praise for her successes, but an official call intercepted that discussion. When my wife, Tonia, returned to her sister, late Amaka, after dismissing the official call, the scenario had changed. All she could hear was stifling, fading distress pleas, “Mother Mary help me, Mother Mary help me”. Confused and thinking it might have been an accident, she broke the call and reported to her immediate elder sister, Dr Maureen, and on returning to Amaka’s line, it was abuses and uncoordinated demands: “thunder fire you, pay N10 million and later N3 million, or I kill her”. As Tonia pleaded: “Do not kill her ooh, she’s been through a lot” she heard her sister’s fading voice pleading “I’m dying, Anto nwannem, pay into my first bank account” and then the line went off permanently till early morning of Tuesday, 6th January, around 6:30 am when the police started calling for identification of a body and all that.

 

Let me observe, along with many of my colleagues, that read the stories that emanated, that Amaka’s death wore a colour of murder/assassination, not kidnapping or one-chance encounter, as people were made to believe. Her murderers never intended to call anybody for ransom, but for the fact that she was already on a call when they pounced on her. Their uncoordinated demands from N10m down to N3m which they never had the patience to collect, lasted for less than one (1) hour, and they never initiated a call with their phone nor dropped an account number or ransom pick-up location. In a usual kid-nap episode, even if the phone runs out of power, they will take time to recharge until they get their ransom, even if it takes days, so the kidnap story should be knocked off. Again, Nwamaka had several encounters with one-chance episodes who never hurt nor harm her physically on any of the occasions; all they wanted and took from her was her money and valuable possessions. I had, on at least two occasions, accompanied her to bushes along the airport road to recover her ID card and other belongings after such one-chance attacks, so the one-chance cab possibility is quite questionable. Her murderers/assassins were already snuffing life out of her (possibly strangling) during the talks with her sisters, and that explained her fading pleas and the state of her remains.

 

She told us she had a court case she believed ought to be in her favour, which she lost, and so appealed against the lower court decision. Also, we believed that she successfully defended the proposal, which she went for that day, and so booked Thanksgiving mass and was hilariously discussing with her younger sister just before the twisted incident; we are not privy to what the proposal was about nor the contenders to the proposal, and there might be some other latent issues that are not known to us. Her usual routine was from her office at Area 11 to Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Pro-Cathedral, Area 3, for evening mass and then to Area 1, where she usually picked a taxi to Trademore Estate, Airport Road (her residence). She must have encountered the killers in the course of this routine; the Kubwa route (stated in the police press release) is just as confusing as the mystery of the motive for her murder.

 

But for all I know, Amaka must get justice; the famous Dele Giwa of once trending Newswatch magazine once submitted “Any evil done by man to man must be redressed, if not by god then by man, if not now then later, for the power of evil can never overcome the power of good/god”. Vengeance belongs to God, and so we look unto God to avenge this gruesome murder/assassination.

 

May the courageous, charitable, and amiable soul of late Barr Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace, Amen.

 

***Engr. Ifeanyi Ejenike is the brother-in-law of the late Barrister Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo.

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Why I will never forget you

 

By Ekene Martina Chigbo

 

For having rendered good help to me during the time I was in trouble, I will never forget you, not only your help to my relatives, but God will pay you back for that. Because you are prayerful, you are in heaven.

 

God will kill those who killed you and show them the same evil they did to you.

You remember people when they are in difficulties.  You remember the church and the priests and buy altar clothes and other materials for their meetings.

 

You provided for all and have all in mind.  In the same way, all will pray for you and rest in the bosom of the lord God, Amen.

 

Bye-Bye, Jee nke oma.

 

***Mrs. Ekene Martina Chigbo is the sister-in-law of Barr Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo

 

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Dear Auntie Amaka, My Guardian 

 

If I were to define my family, I would say it’s a rich, Christian, deeply religious family. It’s a big family, but among all these relations, only a few have left an indelible impact on me. Auntie Amaka is one of those few. She was my guardian.

 

She was the definition of tough love, soft love, and motherly love, even without children of her own. She gave her word and stood by it. She’s someone we’ll never forget, especially on our birthdays. She would call, call again, and wouldn’t stop until you answered. Once you did, she’d sing a birthday song, pray for you on the spot, and always send a token, whether large or small; she made sure you received something. That was who she was: thoughtful, consistent, and caring.

 

Even when I had not spoken to her for a while, the news of her passing broke me deeply. It was during a simple conversation with a friend, while talking about family, that it suddenly struck me. No matter how busy she was, no matter the circumstances, Auntie Amaka always found time to call, to say “hello,” to ask, “Are you fine? How are you doing? Are you succeeding?”

That realisation brought tears to my eyes, tears I could not hold back.

 

Auntie Amaka (Princess) embodied the ideal life of the name Princess Chigbo. She was a great woman. She broke boundaries. She walked paths others feared to tread. She occupied spaces no one else in the family dared to, and that is why she was respected. That is why she was loved.

 

She will be deeply missed by me and by all of us. There is still so much more that could be said, but words will never be enough. All I can do, as one of the living, is to honour her memory, cherish her legacy, and pray.

 

I pray that her soul finds rest in the bosom of the Lord. She was steadfast, faithful, and God-fearing to the best of our knowledge.

 

May God grant her eternal rest, and may her gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

 

Rest on, dear Auntie Amaka. You will never be forgotten. 🕊️

 

***Augustine Ifeanyi Ejenike is the first nephew of the late Barr. Princess Nwamaka Chigbo

 

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Saddened and Disoriented by My Auntie’s Death

By Chukwuma Michael Ejenike

 

I had just come back from work when I received the shocking news of my aunt, Princess Nwamaka Chigbo’s death. I was instantly saddened and disoriented. I couldn’t process how death could wander this close to my family and at such a time, we had just exchanged new year pleasantries, and I intended to call her later on the phone.

 

My siblings and I were always fond of Auntie Amaka. Growing up, we looked forward to her visits. She was a strong and outstanding personality, a virtuous woman, and an exemplary Catholic Christian woman. She never fails to teach the importance of prayer, especially of the Holy Rosary and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Prayer was her identity, which is evident in the books she has published.

 

In writing this, I remember the first time she saw me receive holy communion during Mass, how surprised and happy she was. Aunty Amaka was more than an aunt to me; she was a source of warmth and reassurance. She was also a very jovial person; her presence had a way of making you feel seen and heard.

 

Aunty Nwamaka Princess Chigbo led a life of prayer, love, and kindness. Through her words and actions, she taught us the value of family, prayer, and dignity

 

And now we must bid farewell to a woman of faith and virtue, who had so much to live for. Though her absence leaves a grave space in my heart that can’t be filled, her memory will continue to live on in my heart —through the love she shared and the lives she has touched.

 

May the soul of my aunt, Nwamaka Princess Chigbo, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace, AMEN.

 

***Chukwuma Michael Ejenike is the nephew of the late Barr Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo.

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Your Legacy Remains, My Beloved Auntie

 

By Chidiebube Ejenike

 

What is life if not the way it’s lived? Equally, it’s not how long it is lived but how well.

 

My wonderful aunt, your kindness, love, and warmth will forever stay in our hearts; though you’re gone, your legacy remains.

 

A heart full of love, and memories that sustain, I’ll miss your smile, your laughter, and your December cakes. I will miss most especially your prayers for me whenever I call you; you always provide for me from what you have.

 

You promised me a free cake for my wedding, but I lost because of this bad country and the bad people that live in it.

 

You always want peace and happiness,

 

I can testify that you lived a good life, and may God bless you and shine his face on you, may God grant you pardon, show you mercy, and open his gate to you as he takes you from us.

 

Rest in peace, Auntie Nwamaka. You are forever in our hearts, you’ll be remembered and loved.

 

***Chidiebube Ejenike is the niece of Barr Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo

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The Most Beautiful Flower Always Gets Picked First

 

By Chika Ejenike

 

“Is it me, or is Chika taller?” Auntie Amaka would always say, each time we meet once every year, I never agreed, as I always thought it was her way to make me feel better about being the shortest in my family.

 

Starting the year with the news of your murder was never part of our 2026 plan. This year was supposed to be our year; that’s what we sang and professed during the cross-over New Year’s mass, but man proposes, and God disposes.

 

What hurts more than your death is the horrid way your abductors choose to take your life. When I heard the news of your kidnapping, I prayed that it would be like your last two kidnapping encounters, and at the end of the ordeal, we would have a course for Thanksgiving of life. But I guess the saying “The third time’s a charm” doesn’t always mean in a positive light.

 

Every time I remember the good memories we shared together, they bring more tears than laughter because I can’t help but think about what should have been if you were still here.

 

Sometimes, I get tempted to make our routine call in hopes of hearing your reminder to always pray my rosary daily or at least a decade of Hail Mary if I’m too tired; your voice always telling me to remember you in prayers, even though no one prays more than you do, because you always believed no amount of prayer is too much. Your voice over the phone when you remind me never to forget where I come from, your words of encouragement, and the usual prayers you end the call with, that I have etched at the back of my mind, sometimes I still hear those prayers, this time not over the phone but in memory.

 

They say God loves a cheerful giver, so God must have loved you dearly because you were the most cheerful, generous giver there is, the way you give to the point of being stranded and never expecting not even a thank you in return; always believing that come what may, God will always provide.

 

You were the best of your kind, a doer of what you preached. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about you, and sometimes I think of whether your absence would hurt less if we had a chance to say goodbye to you.

 

But like sunflowers in the field, the most beautiful flowers always get picked first. I like to think that God called you home quickly because you were his favourite.

 

May your soul rest in peace in the blossom of the Lord. Amen.

 

 

***Christabel Chika is the niece of the late Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo

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Recalling My Mum’s Last Discussion with Beloved Auntie Nwamaka

 

By Joannes Ejenike

 

Life is a mystery. When I recall one of the last discussions Auntie Amaka had with my mum this January at the balcony, I feel devastated, confused, and feverish.

 

It was just another hot day, and they were both outside for the fresh air, discussing, when Aunty Amaka remarked on her observations about the way people are treated after death, … of how vain a person’s life is regarded at death. “When one dies, no matter how they spent their life, whether they died rich, poor, famous, unknown, adult or child, the most the living does for them most often at meeting (s) is to accord them a minute of silence … Most times it doesn’t last up to even a minute and that is why she (Aunty Amaka) always try to pray at least one – Our Lord’s prayer and one Hail Mary during the time of the observance period/minute of silence” after the discussion they moved on to other topics.

 

When I heard the news about my aunt, I was confused, and it was unfathomable for me that she would not be here for the next holidays. What pains me the most is how you were murdered, and each time I recall that discussion you had with my mum, I begin to question whether you sensed that your time with us was going to be cut short soon.

 

Whenever I think about my aunt, I recall how generous you are, how you tried to get back to me after each missed call, no matter how busy you were, and how prayerful you were.

 

Your passing away makes me question if there is a point to life, if we are eventually going to die. Whenever I begin to dwell on the vanity of life, my only consolation is that I know you would not want us to wallow in tears but rather honour your death with prayers, the same way you have honoured the departure of others.

 

I pray that you will find your resting place with God, who called you, until we meet again, my dear aunt, to part no more. Amen.

 

Adieu, and May God’s blessings and perpetual light shine on you, and may your Soul rest in peace.

 

 

***Joannes Chibueze Ejenike is the nephew of the late Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo.

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My Auntie, A Virtuous Woman

 

By Emmanuel Ifebuche

 

Firstly, late Auntie Amaka was one of the best aunties I had.

She is a woman of integrity/good morals who makes sure we receive gifts every Christmas vacation. gifts like high-quality clothes, etc.

 

She is someone who was prayerful and displayed an act of benevolence, and always gives us the right advice on what to do.

 

It is very disheartening/demoralizing when I discovered she was dead, but I know God has already prepared a place for her in heaven.

 

May her soul rest in peace

 

***Emmanuel Ifebuche is a nephew of the late Barrister Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo.

 

 

 

Do the Right Thing at all Times

 

By Celestine Chibuikem Chigbo

 

Aunty Amaka is so good to all of us.  She is fond of telling us to do the right things at all times, and she will cook for all of us.  She always teaches us things about life and the way things go about.

 

She loves helping people and the family in diaspora.  She makes us pay attention to studies. She is everything to us always.

 

May the Good Lord grant you peace and eternal life all through – Amen.

 

***Celestine Chibuikem Chigbo

 

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God will retaliate for this Wicked Act against You

 

By Paschal Izuchukwu Chigbo

 

God will punish all who led to your death, for they deprived you of seeing us anymore and our seeing you forever.  God will retaliate for this wicked act against you.  I will not forget what you are for us, the way you handle us, teach us, give normal education, or educate us, especially myself, Paschal, and all of us.

 

You buy goods for us, especially during Christmas – dresses, shoes, and gifts for all of us.  May the Lord God guide you and lead you to eternal rest-Amen.

 

***Paschal Izuchukwu Chigbo is the nephew of the late Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo

 

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You will be in our minds forever

 

By Michael Onyedika Chigbo

 

Because of all you wish us, God will grant you eternal rest.  You teach us how to read and write and pass our exams.  You buy Christmas clothes for us, because of this, we remember and pray that God will open the door of heaven for you.

 

You will be in our minds forever. Rest in Peace – Amen

 

***Michael Onyedika Chigbo is the nephew of the late Barr Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo

 

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Your unforgettable last words to me

 

By Christabel Ogochukwu Chigbo

 

I will not forget the last words you told me before going back to Abuja, that we study hard and be first always, that gifts will always follow, not only that, to be prayerful like you, that God helps, so will God help you, Amaka, and you will be in heaven.

 

My prayer is that you rest in the bosom of the Lord.

 

Rest in peace.

 

***Christabel Ogochukwu Chigbo is the niece of the late Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What a Tragedy!

By Obiageli Ndubisi

N̈WAMAKA, your demise is still a shock to me. You went to Evening Mass, and on your back you met your death. What a tragedy! We cannot question GOD, but your killers will not go scot free in JESUS MIGHTY NAME, I pray.  AMEN.

Your death still looks like a dream to me, but GOD knows the best. You will be fondly remembered for the good works you were doing before your demise. My prayer is that GOD will touch another person’s heart to take up the work you were doing before your death so that your legacy will continue.

May eternal rest grant un̈to you, O LORD, and let perpetual light shine upon you. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.  AMEN and AMEN. ADIEU my NEICE.

JEE NKE OMA.

***Mrs Obiageli Ndubisi (Née Chigbo) is the paternal aunt of the late Princess Barrister Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo.

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My Beautiful Cousin, Barrister Chigbo, Nwamaka Mediatrix Princess

 

By Theo Chigbo

 

Nwanyi ka ibeya, ezigbo nwannem, Nwamaka Adolph Chigbo, you are truly beautiful inside and out. The news of your sudden death was the most unexpected and horrifying information that hit me so – so hard this year 2026. Worst still, on the fifth-year anniversary of my brother, late, Mr. Chigbo, Kingsley.

 

The news got me so uncontrollably emotional that I cried for days. Yes, it is like that, because cowards and criminals are killing my siblings, and there is no chance for me to come to their rescue or for revenge. I am yet to come to terms with how to explain to our late, great parents, about all this untimely agonizing and extremely hurtful deaths.

 

I complained to my beautiful wife, that “eghu na ata m igu na isi”. No doubt, we shall all answer to our time of death, to meet our creator; however, the dying period is what I am so-so dreadful and concerned about. And that is what played out here. Amaka, ezigbo nwannem, Nwanyi ka ibeya, you went through an unimaginable, violent, and pure hell of a dying period. I wish there were a bullet hole on your beautiful body!! And, it is in the same violent manner that your late cousins, Mrs. Stephanie CC Marius Chigbo, Mrs. Ann George Chigbo, Mrs. Chinwe Julius Chigbo, and Lady Josephine Babe Marius Chigbo died. With all my love, you are my heroes!!!

 

Amaka, ezigbo nwannem, Nwanyi Ka Ibeya, you are truly and naturally a Chigbo. Since your demise, a lot of things about your beautiful self amazingly resonates on my mind, especially your decision to study law while you were already living your full and successful life as a food technology expert. Though a very long, fascinating, and interesting story.

 

Amaka, ezigbo nwannem, I informed our common friend, Professor Sheikh Ahmed Abdullahi, the former federal minister of agriculture, about your story and my hurt. he said that and I qoute, “Besides the terrible and traumatic dying experience, that the fact that this senseless dying and death ordeal activated less than twenty four 24 hours of your return from your annual Christmas and new year vacation, a season that allowed you to be with loved family members and bid almost everyone farewell, that the almighty god, knows the best”.

 

My sweet and beautiful inside and out sister, Amaka Adolph Chigbo, life on the planet, earth is all about good life and eternity. On the good life aspect of life, you are a ‘saint’. Then, in eternity, I assure you, we shall together immortalize you to the best of our ability, and you shall forever be on our minds, amen!!

 

Amaka, ezigbo nwannem, nwanyi ka ibeya, please rest on till we meet and part no more, Amen!!!.

 

***Theo Chigbo is the cousin of Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo

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My Beloved Sister Nwamaka Chigbo, whose memory I cherish profoundly

 

By Patricia Ufochukwu

 

Nwamaka was an extraordinary individual whose kindness, strength, and unwavering love touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her radiant spirit and compassionate heart were a beacon of light in our family, offering solace and joy even in the darkest of times. It is with a heavy heart that I reflect upon the void left by her passing, a loss that has profoundly affected us all.

 

Throughout her life, Nwamaka exemplified resilience and grace, facing challenges with a dignity that inspired those around her. Her dedication to family, friends, and community was unmatched, and she possessed an innate ability to uplift others with her warmth and wisdom.

 

The memories we shared are treasures I hold dear, and they serve as a testament to the remarkable person she was.

 

As I honour Nwamaka’s legacy, I am reminded of the importance of cherishing our loved ones and the enduring impact they have on our lives. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit continues to guide and inspire me every day.

 

I would be honoured if you could join me in remembering Nwamaka’s life and the indelible mark she left on our hearts. Together, we can celebrate her memory and find comfort in the love she shared so freely.

 

***Mrs Patricia Ufochukwu is the cousin of Barr. Princess Mediatrix Nwamaka Chigbo

 

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The Ever-available Big Sister, Always There for Family

 

By Chidozie Anadebe Chigbo

 

 

My big sister Nwamaka, the last question you asked me on the 4th of January was if I would be organizing a party for the family this new year, and I replied by telling you that what God cannot do does not exist.

 

Maybe I failed you by not fixing the family party in the next few days cos if I had done so, you certainly would have stayed back to enjoy with family and friends and not journey back to Abuja.

 

How am I to know that I will not see you alive again after dropping you off on the 4th of January? It’s a very difficult thought to process for me.

 

You are the ever-available big sister, always there for the family. You are always available for family events, even more than those who live within the State.

 

I’m sure going to miss you, but the activities of your life console me during the period you came back for Christmas up until your demise. We attended New Year vigil Mass at our local Parish, we attended mass on the first Sunday of the year, and you spent a reasonable time in the chapel in Umuoji. You attended evening Mass upon getting to Abuja and also booked thanksgiving mass for journey mercies back home.

 

Who am I to question God? I’m rather consoled that you were at peace with Christ till the end.

 

Adieu.

 

***Chidozie Anadebe Chigbo is the cousin of Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo

 

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What Nwamaka did for siblings and the Chigbo family at large

 

By Rose Uchendu

 

Nwamaka, my cousin, the devils have done their worst. I had so much hope for what you are doing for family, for your siblings, and the greater Chigbo at large.

 

You were full of life, hard-working, helpful, and generous. You even had plans for what you would do for the kindred this coming December.

 

But unfortunately, it is not going to happen; instead, what is happening is the painful burial of your dear self. You were full of life, excessively thoughtful, and you had so much to give, always planning for the good of the family.

 

I hoped so much for you. I talked to you several times and begged you to do the best you can for the greater Chigbo clan. You promised me and told me to auntie, please, and encouraged us. But all that has gone with the wind.  Rest in peace. I am sure your death will not be in vain. God, in his infinite mercy, will grant you eternal rest. peace. Rest in peace.

 

***Mrs Rose Uchendu is the first Cousin of both Pa Adolphus and Victoria Chigbo (nee Moughalu), parents of the late Barr Princess Mediatrix Chigbo, from her respective paternal and maternal sides of the family. 

 

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Heaven has gained a beautiful soul      

By Ify Chigbo Osakwe

 

Nnem, as I have always called you. You called and video-called me on January 5, 2026, at 17:32, and were very apologetic for not being able to come to your niece’s wedding, and as always, sent money to her.

We talked and laughed, and you wanted some pictures from the wedding, but I never knew that it would be the last time I would ever speak to my cousin.

Heaven has gained a beautiful soul. But I know for sure that what happened to you was not what anyone expected, but my prayer is that your blood will cry just like the blood of Abel till the people that did this are all punished to the tenth generation.

I can’t find myself telling your niece what happened to you. I miss you dearly, Nnem. I love you so much. Tears cannot express my pain and sadness.

 

***Ify Chigbo Osakwe is the cousin of the late Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo.

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Nwamaka’s Death, another Diminution of the Finest of Nigerian People

 

By Patrick Arinze Muoghalu

 

We are being forced to say goodbye to yet another gem. Nwamaka, the shock and pain pf your sudden and unexpected death at the hands of miscreants on the 5^th of January 2026 is indescribable and unbearable. The circumstances surrounding your death make it more annoying and test our faith. But as the good book says, “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God for you” (Thessalonians 5:18).

Princess, your death is another diminution of the finest of Nigerian people. You will be missed for a lot of things, especially the cohesion and well-being of your immediate family, your total commitment to your law practice, and your unwavering devotion to the Catholic Church. The void your demise has created in your immediate family will be difficult to fill. Being the Treasurer of the Nigeria Bar Association, Abuja Branch, attests to your commitment to the practice of law and your trustworthiness as a person. I recall the 2023 incident when you lost some money in a misadventure, and people rallied and sent you money to recoup your loss, only for you to use the money for the publication of your book on “Holy Infant Jesus”.

Although our hearts are broken, we are encouraged because we believe that you are in a better place with your creator. To your siblings, we say, please take heart. May you find solace in the worthy life she led, the values she stood for, and the legacies she left behind.

Nwamaka, the entire Muoghalu family of Anogu Umuoji (Your Ikwu nne) will miss you because we enjoyed and shared the warmth of your relationship. We mourn and pray that God will grant you eternal rest, and unto the ones you left behind, the grace and wherewithal to carry on the race of our time.

Good night, Mediatrix, and may your soul rest in perfect peace; Amen.

 

***Chief (Sir) Patrick Arinze Muoghalu (KSM), Ichie Isienyi n’ Umuoji, is the maternal uncle of the late Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo.

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A Star Illuminating the Path

By Osita and Ngozi Idemili

 

Your sudden and unplanned death gave us a rude shock.

 

‘My Learned Friend’ Amaka, daughter of the Most-High God, your life was and still is a *STAR* illuminating the path, especially the path of JUSTICE for others to have a sense of WORTH.

 

You were so irrepressible, always on the move, never a dull moment with you. It was always fun galore each time I had the opportunity to be with you in Abuja. Thank you for those memorable moments, “Makus-Makus,” my Gist Mate. We will miss you sorely.

 

Our consolation is in the fact that you served God so faithfully. May our Lord Jesus Christ grant your soul eternal peace and rest, *John 14:2* Amen.

 

Good night, dearest Cousin. Asleep in Jesus, perfect sleep…

 

 ***Pharm Osita and Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Idemili, FPSN, are cousins of the late Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Idemili from her grandmother’s side.

 

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A Good Life Full of Positive Impact

 

By Sylvester Idemili

 

Barrister Princess Amaka, we were together in my house in Umuoji on January 3, 2026. Before I could call to know how your journey back to Abuja was, this sad news of your passing came.

 

What devastating news for my entire family.

Writing this condolence is now with the full realisation that you are no more. Our sojourn here is indeed a passing.

 

My entire family and I have so many fond memories of you.

 

Our consolation is that you lived a good life full of positive impact. You were equally dedicated to your maker till the very end.

Who will now call me, Man Sill?

 

Adios. Rest in peace.

 

***Sylvester Idemili and family are cousins of Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo from her grandmother’s side.

 

 

A rare soul, deeply rooted in love for others

 

By Maximus C. Okoye

 

Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo was a rare soul—gracious in spirit, gentle in words, and deeply rooted in love for others. She carried herself with quiet dignity and a kindness that never sought attention, yet left an indelible mark on everyone privileged to know her.

 

What set her apart was her genuine concern for people. She never encountered you without asking after your wellbeing—not as a formality, but with sincerity that made you feel seen, valued, and remembered. In a world often too busy to care, she paused, listened, and cared deeply. That simple habit revealed the depth of her compassion and the beauty of her heart.

 

As a cousin, she was a source of warmth and reassurance; as a person, she embodied peace and goodwill. Her presence brought comfort, her words brought calm, and her life reflected selflessness. Though she may no longer walk among us, the love she shared and the concern she showed for others will continue to speak on her behalf.

 

Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo lives on in our memories, in our hearts, and in the values she quietly taught us—kindness, empathy, and genuine love for one another. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace, and may her legacy continue to inspire us to care more deeply for those around us.

 

***Barrister Maximus C. Okoye is the cousin of Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo

 

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Tribute from Professional Colleagues 

 

 

Encountering Excellence in Its Most Effortless Form

 

By Chinelo Virginia Iriele

 

 

I called her my Princess, and never once did the name feel exaggerated or borrowed. To be around Mediatrix Nwamaka Chigbo was to encounter excellence in its most effortless form. She moved through life with a rare grace, quiet, assured, and deeply effective. Where there was discomfort, she brought calm; where there was need, she brought order; where there was heaviness, she left joy in her wake. In every sense, she was a true friend, faithful, present, and sincere.

 

I often found myself in awe of this extraordinary woman. That ancient prayer of the Psalmist, “Establish thou the work of our hands”, found its living embodiment in her. There was scarcely anything her hands could not accomplish, save the divine mystery of creating life itself. Like the virtuous woman of Proverbs, her hands were diligent, her works praised her at the gates, and her life bore visible fruit.

 

She was a distinguished Advocate and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, yet her excellence was not confined to the courtroom. On June 8, 2025, at my church thanksgiving, she appeared in a lace asoebi she had personally sewn, needle and thread in hand, on that very day. We stood, not merely to admire the garment, but to behold the woman behind it: a rare jewel, fearfully and wonderfully made. Beyond law and tailoring, she excelled in confectionery and countless other crafts. Truly, she was a quiet achiever, beautiful within and without, with a heart refined as gold tried by fire. She existed, as Aristotle might say, not merely to live, but to live well, adding flavour and meaning to humanity.

 

Yet her gentleness was never weakness. Like Deborah of old, she combined warmth with strength. She did not permit familiarity to erode respect. When boundaries were crossed, she spoke with clarity and firmness, reminding all, without malice, of who she was and what she represented. Her kindness had a backbone; her love, a compass.

 

When my mother passed while I was outside the country, pressed for time and overwhelmed by grief, my Princess stepped in without hesitation. She sourced a caterer, accompanied me personally to Onitsha Market to procure food items, and ensured that nothing was left undone. At my parents’ memorial event in 2016, she was everywhere, quietly coordinating, supervising, and ensuring excellence. Like Martha, she served; like Mary, she cared; like Ruth, she stood steadfastly by.

 

A close friend once observed that you were always with me, and I could only agree. On December 9, 2025, you attended the Carol of Twelve Lessons organised by my Church Society, the Vicar Society. We finished late, and you spent the night at my home. The next morning, you told me you were leaving. I did not know then that I was standing at the threshold of a final farewell. I never imagined it would be the last time my eyes would rest upon you.

 

On December 26, 2025, you sent me a simple message asking if I was in town. I replied that I was. There was no further response. That brief exchange, so ordinary, so unassuming, became our final conversation.

 

Then came January 5, 2025, a day etched into my soul. Juliet Ukoha called and asked me to check the Otu Okiwu platform. I did not understand why. What I saw there shattered me. I prayed, as one wrestling with hope, that it was false. But truth, like an uninvited guest, soon arrived. It was indeed Princess Mediatrix Nwamaka Chigbo.

 

Now, we hold ourselves together only by grace, leaning on the eternal assurance that “the Lord gives, and the Lord takes away.” Who are we to question the Almighty? Our consolation rests in the blessed hope that you now dwell in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ, where pain is no more, and where the righteous find rest.

 

My Princess, you were admired for your unvarnished honesty. You spoke truth without fear or flattery. You called a spade a spade, and your words, though firm, were always rooted in integrity. To write fully about you would require volumes, for a life so rich cannot be captured in a few pages.

 

So, I end, simply and sincerely, by saying we will miss you deeply, my Princess.

 

***Mrs. Chinelo Virginia Iriele is the International President of the Global Association of Female Attorneys (GAFA). 

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Where do I begin to have a conversation about Princess? 

 

By Ngozi O Jipreze

 

 

It was with utmost shock and disbelief that I received the news of the harrowing death of Mediatrix, the people’s princess.

Princess, my dear Princess, and our dear Princess.  Where do I begin to have a conversation about Princess?  You were truly a remarkable soul, always identifying with everyone in every situation, in mourning and celebration.  You were truly a selfless soul whose kindness touched everyone around you.

 

As a dedicated member of the Global Association of Female Attorneys (GAFA) family, you served with humility, commitment, and a genuine love for others.

 

Princess, you were loved by all for your warm heart, gentle spirit, and willingness to help at all times. You brought light into every space you entered, and your absence is deeply felt by colleagues, friends, and loved ones.

 

Those who killed you could only kill your body, as your soul lives in eternity in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ, whom you served and worshipped to the exclusion of all.

 

You will be dearly missed, but the love you shared and the lives you touched will remain forever in our hearts. May your kind and gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.

 

Rest on my dear sister, Adieu, my dear. God loves you.

 

 

***Ngozi O Jipreze is the GAFA International Coordinator. 

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Shocked at the Manner of Your Death

 

By Mariah Uche Njoku

 

 

I was so shocked to hear about your sudden demise; moreso the manner of your death. What a way to begin the new year.

 

Princess was a shining star who lit up our lives with her jovial team spirit. We sat at the same table at the last GAFA Thanksgiving event, where she narrated how she made her dress with just a needle and thread, even after the tailor had disappointed her.

 

Although you are no longer with us, your resourceful nature will never be forgotten, as it will always remain a standard for all who were privileged to have experienced you.

Your legacy lives on in our hearts.

 

***Mariah Uche Njoku, Esq, is the treasurer, GAFA, Abuja Branch. 

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Forever Loved, Forever Missed: My Dear Sister and Colleague

 

By Ojeme Patricia Nwadi

 

Words cannot fully express the shock and deep sorrow I felt when I received the heartbreaking news of your passing. It is still difficult to believe that you are no longer with us. You were not just a colleague, but a dear sister and a true friend whose presence brought light and warmth to everyone around you.

 

Princess, as I fondly called you, was a woman of honesty, kindness, and a beautiful spirit. She spoke her mind with sincerity and never carried grudges. What you saw was what you got, a straightforward, loving, and genuine soul. Her friendship was sincere, and her heart was open to all.

 

I will always remember the many times you visited my office at the High Court of Justice. Even when you came for official duties, you would always find time to sit, talk, laugh, and share stories. Those moments of laughter and simple conversation are memories I will forever treasure.

 

Princess had a special way of appreciating good things and good people. She loved music and dancing. At every gathering, she brought energy and happiness, and she never missed an opportunity to dance when good music was playing. Being around her always felt uplifting.

 

One of my fondest memories was a moment we shared during our stay in the GAFA president’s house last year. We laughed so freely, teasing each other over our snoring and turning it into something joyful. That simple, happy memory now means so much more, knowing it was one of our last moments together.

 

Princess, your kindness, laughter, and vibrant spirit will never be forgotten. Though you are no longer with us physically, your memory lives on in our hearts and in the many lives you touched.

 

You are gone, but you will always be remembered.

Forever loved, forever missed.

 

Rest in perfect peace in the bosom of the Lord.

 

 

***Ojeme Patricia Nwadi is the coordinator, GAFA, Abuja Branch. 

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Remembering the Good Times together on the Trip to Ghana/Niger. 

 

By Margaret Olofu

 

The news came in this morning as a chill wind with disbelief, doubts, and shock.  Dear Princess, you were not just a colleague but a friend and sister. A forthright, hardworking, kind-hearted, and trustworthy person. I’ll live on remembering the good times we had together on our trip to Ghana, /Niger.   The last I saw of you, we had so much to chat about that I promised to call you on my return. But you decided to leave sooner than expected.  You surely have left an indelible mark on our hearts and in our midst. Dear Princess, we will miss you dearly as a friend, as a committed GAFAN above all, as a beautiful person. You are known for. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace in the bosom of our lord Jesus.  ADIEU.

 

***Margaret Olofu, Esq., is the GAFA International Vice President. 

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Deep Reflections on the Beautiful and Purposeful Life You Lived

 

By Vic-Cliff N. M. Obiayo, Esq

 

Since I received the devastating news of your passing, my heart has remained unbearably heavy, weighed down by deep reflections on the beautiful and purposeful life you lived.

 

You were gentle, kind, and genuinely friendly. We met through the various professional associations we both belonged to—GAFA, FIDA, NACL, and the NBA. Many times, we journeyed home together, sharing conversations that now linger tenderly in my memory. I vividly recall the day I told you I was from Abatete, and you smiled and said, “Then we are sisters.” You went on to explain the shared ancestry of Abatete, Umuoji, and Nkpor— how history records them as three siblings. That day, I learned not just history, but also felt your warmth and sense of kinship.

 

I remember you telling me about your efforts to fix your car — a car I later saw parked quietly in your compound when I visited your home after your passing. I have wrestled deeply within my spirit, wondering if things might have been different had that car been fixed, if perhaps the forces of evil might not have crossed your path. 💔

 

You truly lived a life of faith. Encountering you on my journey of life compels nothing but reverence. I bow to your discipline, your devotion, and your deeply rooted faith. You were, indeed, a true child of God.

 

As painful as this loss is, we humbly submit to the will of God, who alone knows all things. Who are we to question Him? He could have prevented it, yet He allowed it — just as He allowed His only begotten Son to be sacrificed for the salvation of mankind. Perhaps through your untimely death, those in authority who have long ignored how unsafe and porous the Federal Capital Territory has become will finally hear, see, and act.

 

My beloved sister, friend, and colleague lived a life of prayer, service, and quiet devotion. Though you are no longer with us physically, your faith speaks loudly, your example endures, and your memory will forever remain in our hearts.

 

May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. 🙏

 

***Vic-Cliff N. M. Obiayo, Esq, is the General Secretary of GAFA. 

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More than a Colleague

 

By Benedicta Ngozi Carsten-Linnenberg

 

Princess Chigbo was more than a learned colleague — she was a light of brilliance, grace, and quiet strength. Learned, kind, and dedicated, she carried herself with dignity and a generous spirit that touched everyone who had the privilege of working with her. She was very thoughtful, and her heart was open to all. I remember her on my wedding day, she was the only one with our able GAFA President to attend and present the gift. What a loss!!

 

Her life was taken far too soon by this wicked generation we find ourselves in, in a way that words can scarcely explain, but her legacy will never be erased. Princess lives on in the excellence she embodied, the kindness she shared, and the inspiration she gave by simply being herself.

 

We mourn her loss with heavy hearts, yet we honour her by remembering her courage, compassion, and her unwavering commitment to purpose. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace, and may her memory remain a blessing to us always. 🕊️Adieu, Princess!!!

 

***Benedicta Ngozi Carsten-Linnenberg is the GAFA Financial Secretary. 

 

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Transforming Sorrow into Resolve

 

By Chigozie Eruchalu

 

We gather today with heavy hearts, grappling with the shock and profound sorrow of losing our esteemed colleague, sister, and friend, Mediatrix.

 

Her sudden and violent passing as a result of a senseless act of murder has left a void in our Association and the Legal Community in general. The manner of your passing sends a chilling reminder of the risks faced by citizens at every level.  However, in our grief, we must transform our sorrow into resolve.

 

Mediatrix was more than just a gifted lawyer; she was a true advocate of the legal principles we all swore to uphold.  Also, being a member of the Global Association of Female Attorneys (GAFA), her career was defined by fierce dedication to advocacy, a tireless pursuit of truth, and an unwavering belief that justice should be accessible to all, especially women, regardless of power or privilege.

 

Mediatrix, you left a lasting impact in your works and that shall not be in vain. The seed you planted in the pursuit of a just world will continue to grow through those they inspired.

 

We honour Mediatrix’s memory not with silence but with commitment to the ideals she held dear.  We will carry her touch forward, ensuring the fight for a just and fair society continues.

 

To her family, we extend our deepest sympathy and support during this difficult time. Please know that your loved one’s legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the principles she championed.

 

You will be deeply missed, Mediatrix, but not forgotten.

 

***Barr. (Mrs.) Chigozie Eruchalu is the Principal Partner, Goziem Chambers. 

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University of Abuja, Faculty of Law’s Deep Sorrow

 

By Professor Uwakwe Abugu

 

The Faculty of Law, University of Abuja, received with deep sorrow the tragic abduction and murder of Princess Mediatrix Nwamaka Chigbo on 5 January 2026. Until her untimely death, she was an LL.M Candidate of the Faculty, known for her diligence, humility, and commitment to academic excellence.

 

Princess Mediatrix was a devoted student who related warmly with her lecturers and colleagues. Beyond her studies, she was a woman of strong faith, sound moral character, and compassion for humanity. Her death is a painful loss to her family, the University community, and the legal profession.

 

The circumstances of her passing raise serious concerns about the safety of lives and property in our nation. The Faculty of Law calls on the relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate this heinous crime and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

 

On behalf of the Faculty, I extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones. We pray for strength for all who mourn her.

 

May the soul of Princess Mediatrix Nwamaka Chigbo rest in eternal peace.

 

***Professor Uwakwe Abugu is the Dean, Faculty of Law, University of Abuja. 

 

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Tribute from Religious Groups

 

Our Beloved Sacred Heart Sister, Barrister, Princess Nwamaka Mediarix Chigbo

 

Glory to Jesus!

 

We extend our deepest sympathies in this time of profound grief and stand with the family in sharing your tears and lifting you up in prayer. May the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, whose Sacred Heart overflows with compassion, envelop you all in comfort and peace.

 

Sister Madiatrix was taken home to the Lord far too soon, yet her gentle presence touched our hearts in ways that will endure.

 

In her years as a member of the Association, she embodied the devotion. We remember her smile, warmth, and the way she carried her contentment daily. Her journey reminds us that true devotion isn’t measured by activity, but by the purity of one’s love for God and others.

 

As Scripture reminds us in Psalm 23, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” Sister is now resting in that eternal light, free from pain, forever close to the Sacred Hearts she cherished.

 

May her memory inspire us to live with the same pure-hearted faith.

Rest eternally in the peace of Christ, dear Sister.

 

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, your kingdom come!

 

***The Association of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary, St. John Mary Vianney Parish, Trademore Estate, Lugbe, Abuja.

 

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A True Daughter of Igboland

 

By Benedicth Akubue

 

Princess, as popularly called, was a native of Umuoji, Idemili North, Anambra State, Nigeria.

 

PRINCESS MEDIATRIX NWAMAKA CHIGBO is a true daughter of Igbo land. She values the Igbo culture and tradition and lives out the supreme Igbo value of “Onye aghala nwanne ya”. She associated with all but saw the need to be a financial and committed member of Blessed IWENE TANSI, Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi Catholic Community, a socio-cultural group in SJMV Parish, Lugbe that promotes cultural harmony, unity and togetherness among its members.

 

She was a Solicitor and Advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. A practicing lawyer of high repute in Abuja. A very experienced and diligent lawyer. She handled all her matters with passion and seriousness. No wonder she always won her matters in the court of law.

 

Princess also known as Mediatrix, lived true to that name. She meditated between her clients and opposing parties whenever necessary.

 

Mediatrix was almost indispensable in her family, amongst neighbors, colleagues and many groups she belonged to. She was a member of:

 

• Blessed IWENE TANSI, Enugu Anambra Ebonyi Catholic Community SJMV Parish Lugbe Abuja.

 

• Abuja Bar Association

 

– Global Association of Female Attorneys

 

– FIDA,

 

– Infant Jesus Society

 

– Sacred heart of Jesus and immaculate heart of Mary

 

Mediatrix indeed contributed to the growth and success of Blessed IWENE TANSI, Enugu Anambra Ebonyi Catholic Community SJMV Parish Lugbe Abuja.

 

A particularly prayerful lawyer, Mediatrix was devoted to groups and made out time to meet the respective obligations.

 

Unfortunately, her holy and vibrant life was cut short on January 5, 2026. Her life, though, was cut short abruptly; it was full of achievements and of good memories.

 

What one can easily take away from the manner in which she lived her life was:

Take every minute seriously and put in one’s best at all necessary things at all times.

 

The Blessed IWENE TANSI, Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi Catholic Community SJMV Parish, and other groups will sincerely miss her contributions and execution of vital issues of life as they arose. She left a vacuum amongst us, but we believe she is with God.

 

May Mediatrix’s soul rest in perfect peace, Amen.

 

 

***Engr. Chief Benedicth Akubue is the Chairman of the Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi Catholic community, SJMV Parish, Lugbe, Abuja.

 

 

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Statement by the Chigbo Family on the Gruesome Murder of Barr. Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo

 

 

Kidnappers kill Abuja-based lawyer Princess Nwamaka Chigbo

 

 

 

THE family of Princess Nwamaka Mediatrix Chigbo, an Abuja-based lawyer, is saddened to announce her brutal death at the hands of still-to-be-identified kidnappers in the Nigerian Federal Capital Territory on Monday, 5th January 2026.

 

Before her abduction, Barrister Nwamaka was on the phone with her sister Anthonia, who briefly interrupted the call to attend to a client. When she reverted, the barrister’s phone was still live, and Anthonia could hear her sister’s distress cry before the phone suddenly went dead and unreachable.

 

Anthonia alerted her elder sister, Maureen Chigbo, and other family members, who called the lawyer’s number repeatedly to reach her or her abductors to no avail.

 

When a call finally went through, a male voice rained curses in English and Hausa language, saying: “Thunder fire you there, send three million Naira or else we will kill her.” The captors gave no further details and abruptly terminated subsequent calls.

 

Barrister Nwamaka’s family later tried to contact the Police Force Public Relations Officer and left a text message on her phone. They were referred to two police complaint numbers.

 

The family equally sent a distress text and WhatsApp message to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), and also contacted the FCT Police Commissioner, who immediately linked them up to the Commander of the Scorpion Squad, in charge of kidnapping in Abuja.

 

The Commander later called to inform the family that the police were tracking the kidnappers, who were said to be “in motion and would likely drop the lawyer off once they might have collected the ransom.”

 

The kidnappers never initiated any calls, and when Nwamaka’s family members reached them through her phone for clarification on how the ransom would be paid, they only heard the lawyer screaming in pain, “I am dying. …save me, please send the money, I am dying,” before the phone finally went dead again.

 

The family maintained contact with the Police Commander throughout Monday night to follow up on the rescue operation.

 

At 4 am on Tuesday, 6th January, when Maureen called the Commander, he expressed surprise that the lawyer had not called or returned home. He then promised to escalate the rescue operation.

 

The Commander later called to inform the family that “a lady had been found in a critical condition” and taken to an Abuja specialist hospital. He requested that Nwamaka’s picture be sent for identification purposes.

 

Maureen immediately took a flight from Lagos to Abuja and, on reaching the hospital, saw her sister’s lifeless body in the mortuary with bruises, swollen eyes, and a cracked skull, all signs of a tortured death.

 

The Chigbo family has met with the Police authorities, who assured them that the case was under investigation and that the culprits would be apprehended.

 

Nwamaka was an active member and former treasurer of the Nigerian Bar Association, Abuja, a member of the International Federation of Women Lawyers, IFWL,

FIDA and the Global Association of Female Lawyers, GAFA. She was a former President of the Catholic Lawyers Association, Abuja.

 

An ardent Catholic, Nwamaka authored a book on Infant Jesus, and until death, was the vice president of the Infant Jesus Association, a member of the Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Group, among other religious groups.

 

The family expresses its gratitude to the Police for their efforts and cooperation so far, and urges the force to ensure that justice is served in Nwamaka’s case.

 

The family also wishes to thank Nwamaka’s friends, colleagues, and well-wishers for their support and prayers. Her funeral arrangements will be announced as soon as possible.

 

Maureen Chigbo

For and on behalf of the Family