A Song For Mamma: For ITV/Radio Journalist, Efosa Uwangue, Time Has Stood Still One Year After Mother's Transition

                   Mrs. Inneh, sitting on her favorite chair 
Hendrix Oliomogbe 

Time trots, so they say but for popular  ITV/Radio journalist, Mr. Efosa Uwangue, time seems to have stood still since her mother passed away at 81 in the early hours of Friday, October 3, 2025 in a private hospital in the Edo State capital, after a brief illness. 

Going Americanese, Mr. Uwangue said that day (October 3, 2025) "was one helluva day" and that hings have certainly not been the same with him since the transition of his beloved mother.

Reflecting on the passage, he said that he could hardly believe it when he got the news of her death and had to pinch himself just to be sure that it was not a bad dream. Goosebumps were all over him when the reality of the situation gradually sank in.

Even as a octogenarian, he confessed that it didn't for once cross his mind that his mother, the rock he had leaned on since the exit of his father, years back, will dash for the exit doors like a character in a gripping melodrama when the light faded away "just like that."

Still living with the scars and with deep pains in his heart, it was time, during the weekend in Benin City, Edo State, to soberly reflect on the transition of his beloved mother, the queen of his heart, one year after.

Sighing deeply, he remarked that one year after, the death of loved ones is always a deeply emotional milestone, as it represents a full year of learning to live with the absence while at the same time attempting to preserve their memories. 

"She took a piece of me with her when she left and I was broken in two. Things have not been the same with me ever since," he said, getting emotional.

In deep despair, he said that the matriarch of the Uwangues may have been gone for one year now but sweet memories of her life and time continue to echo. He will forever live with a crowd of fond memories of her.

In the midst of friends and family members, he remembered her memory with a nostalgic heartfelt tributes of the the life of love that she truly lived and the enduring influence she left behind.

The journalist noted that the anniversary is not only a moment of grief but also one of gratitude, adding that more than anything else, the occasion offers a perfect opportunity to reflect on the values his mother instilled in him: discipline, compassion, resilience, and a deep commitment to family and community.

Friends, colleagues, and well-wishers joined him in remembering a woman, who is described as caring, prayerful, and highly devoted to her children. 

Though she is no longer physically present, her legacy continues to guide the Uwangues in their  personal life and professional work.

The ace journalist is reputed for reporting on community affairs and issues of public-interest in Edo State, including civic engagement, governance, and religious events both locally and internationally.

Close friends, mates and colleagues said his world view and journalism career are shaped by the strict upbringing and moral foundation his mother instilled in him while growing up.

For Mr. Uwangue, the solemn ceremony was a way of honouring his mother, adding that he chose not to sorrow like them without hope, but instead, remember her legacy with thanksgiving for the memorable years she shared with her children.

To those who have also lost their parents and dear ones, he advised them to keep the faith and to hold on to hope, cherish their memories, and continue the good values they inculcated in them.

He enthused: "Her love remains with me. One year may have passed since her transition, her voice, prayers, and lessons remain part of who I am.”

With a heart full of grace, the anniversary was rounded off with prayers for her peaceful rest and gratitude for a life that continues to serve as an inspiration to many.

Almost tearing, he chorused the lyrics of "A Song for Mama" by the celebrated American rhythm and blues group, Boyz II Men:

Mama, Mama you know I love you

Mama, Mama you're the queen of my heart

Your love is like tears from the stars

Mama I just want you to know

Lovin' you is like food to my soul.