By Frank Ulom
What began as a solemn gathering of mourning in Bukumanya-Bisu, Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River State, transformed into a grand celebration of culture, legacy and patriotic service as the Ogogo Dynasty laid to rest late Warrant Officer Joseph Echine Ogogo amid full military honours and colourful cultural displays.
The weekend-long funeral ceremonies attracted military officers, traditional rulers, political associates, clerics, family members and sympathisers from different parts of the country, turning the quiet agrarian community into a centre of tribute and remembrance for a man widely described as disciplined, humble and devoted to humanity.
Activities commenced on Friday with an emotional tribute and cultural night where associates, friends and loved ones reflected on the life and impact of the late military veteran.
The event featured performances by cultural troupes from Cross River and Benue States, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and diversity of the region through traditional dances, songs and dramatic displays.
Guests were treated to goodwill messages and musical performances as tributes poured in for the deceased patriarch whose influence, speakers noted, extended beyond his immediate family and community.
The funeral mass held at St. Justine’s Catholic Church, Bukumanya, drew hundreds of worshippers and dignitaries who gathered to pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.
The Holy Mass was jointly celebrated by Catholic priests, while the homily delivered by Very Rev. Dr Denis Ogwu of the Catholic Diocese of Ogoja focused on purposeful living, sacrifice and the Christian hope of eternal life.
An emotional highlight of the funeral rites was the official unveiling and handover of St. Justine’s Catholic Church, reportedly built entirely by the Joseph Ogogo Foundation.
The church edifice, described by many attendees as one of the most magnificent worship centres within the Catholic Diocese of Ogoja, attracted widespread commendation from clerics, worshippers and community leaders who praised the family for immortalising their patriarch through service to God and humanity.
At the graveside, the atmosphere shifted from solemn reflection to ceremonial honour as serving and retired military officers paid their final respects to the late Warrant Officer with full military rites.
Clad in ceremonial Nigerian Army regalia, military personnel conducted parade formations, gun salutes and other traditional rites reserved for distinguished officers of the Armed Forces.
The firing of volleys and parade procession brought emotions to a climax as former colleagues and servicemen described the deceased as a courageous and disciplined officer who served Nigeria diligently and retired honourably.
Among dignitaries present were the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General E.A.P. Undiandeye; the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt; senior officers from Defence Headquarters; senior naval officers; and several retired generals and top-ranking military personnel.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Col. Canis Bishung Ogogo expressed gratitude to friends, associates and sympathisers for the support shown to the family during the mourning period.
He also appreciated the church community, military institutions and the people of Bukumanya-Bisu for standing with the family and honouring the memory of their late father.
The ceremonies climaxed with more cultural displays, goodwill performances and community celebrations that reflected not merely a season of mourning, but a celebration of an accomplished life, enduring family values and dedicated service to the nation.
Late Warrant Officer Joseph Echine Ogogo is survived by his wife, Ma Monica Ogogo; sons including Col. Canis Bishung Ogogo, Navy Commodore S.K. Ogogo, Augustine Ogogo, PhD, and Jay Ogogo; daughter, Stella Atte-Enyenihi; alongside grandchildren, siblings and extended family members.
He is also survived by his brother, Prof. Augustine Ugar Ogogo, and sister, Mrs Cecilia Enyitang, among other relatives whose lives he profoundly impacted.
