By Isa Isawade
The Bureau of African Labour Human and Democratic Rights (BALHADER), along with the Center for the Defence of Human Rights Democratic in Africa (CDHRDA) and the wrongly disengaged Over 5000 Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), on Monday paid tribute to one of their leaders, Comrade (Mrs) Nwanyieze Ukaummna, widely recognized as the First Lady of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, MWUN, who passed away in August during a memorial ceremony in Lagos.
Comrade Nwanyieze, who celebrated her 70th birthday on May 5, 2025, passed away at her residence on 43 Fatai Irawo Street, Ajao Estate, Isolo Lagos on August 30, 2025.
The gathering, which took place at the Akporo Community Hall in Ajegunle Apapa, Lagos, began around 11 a.m. with hymns and unity songs, followed by a moment of silence to pay tribute to the deceased.
The funeral ceremony saw numerous representatives from labor unions offering heartfelt tributes to the woman they consider the mother figure of all seafarers.
The first speaker, Comrade Mufutau Salami portrayed Mrs. Ukaummna as a kind mother who was highly welcoming and warm-hearted.
"Mother was a kind mother to me. She was always delighted to have you visit. Whenever I went to her for something, she would encourage me to come in and sit wherever I wanted in the house. She would say, 'Sit wherever you like, it's your home,' " Comrade Muftau shared.
He shared accounts of how the late unionist advocated for him in various matters. He also highlighted that mama cherished him deeply, and if she had chosen not to get involved in any matter, she would quickly alter her stance upon seeing him among those affected. He offered a prayer for the rest of the deceased's soul.
The second speaker was Comrade Olumegbon Ibrahim Babatunde, who referred to Mrs Ukaummna's passing as unfortunate. Nevertheless, he encouraged his colleagues to find comfort in the knowledge that the late 'mother of all maritime workers' led a meaningful and influential life.
A pupil of the late union figure, Comrade Emmanuel James, stated that the departed held significant roles "in everyone's life. You can't approach her sorrowful and leave without feeling uplifted."
Another speaker, Comrade James Nwafor, highly commended mama and stated that the only way to honor her was for him and his fellow colleagues to carry on the fight that the late person led "until success is attained."
The Director of Programme at BALHADER, Comrade Uchenna Uzoije, also received a wave of commendations for the late Comrade. He mentioned that Mrs. Ukaummna was the initial leader of the movement. He referred to her as his mother "in the truest sense."
He promised to respect her cherished memory by continuing the fight she led until her last breath.
A ceremony for the rest of her soul was conducted afterwards.
Around 12:30pm, the event concluded with the performance of unity songs, accompanied by a typical protest demonstration.
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