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On August 31, 2025, Benue State bid a heartfelt farewell to Mrs. Mary Yisa, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Relations, who passed away on August 15, 2025, after a brief illness in an Abuja hospital. Her funeral, marked by an outpouring of grief and tribute, saw the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, lead a procession of government officials, sympathizers, and family members in honoring her legacy.
In his funeral oration, Governor Alia described Mrs. Yisa as a virtuous woman whose life was dedicated to faith and service to humanity. He hailed her as the “face of his administration,” highlighting her significant contributions. The Governor expressed deep sadness over her departure, noting that it has left a vacuum in the state and society, with her goodwill and imprints remaining indelible and unforgettable.
Governor Alia extended his condolences to Arch. Bernard Yisa, the Chief mourner and Mrs. Yisa’s husband, along with the family and sympathizers. He urged them to find solace in the matriarch’s life of service, guided by moral and religious values, and prayed for the good Lord to forgive her shortcomings, grant her soul eternal rest in heaven.
Earlier, during the homily, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Nyitar, Parish Priest of Christ the King Catholic Parish and Dean of Vandeikya Deanery, emphasized the Christian faithful’s duty to acknowledge God in all things. He underscored that everything in the world is designed for a beginning and an end, aligning with God’s time for Mrs. Yisa. He prayed for her peaceful repose and strength for Arch. Yisa, the family, and all those she left behind, noting that while her loss is an earthly one, it is a gain in heaven.
In his vote of thanks, Arch. Bernard Yisa, the Chief mourner, appreciated Governor Alia’s support from the onset of his wife’s illness until her death. He thanked all who came from far and wide to condole with his family, praying for their safety as they returned to their various destinations.
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Berga Alfred, and the Chairman of APC in Benue State, Hon. Benjamin Omale, among others. Dignitaries such as the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Moses Atagher, and the Principal Private Secretary, Dr. Emma Chenge, also paid their respects. Messages of condolence from various leaders and government appointees underscored the widespread impact of Mrs. Yisa’s life and service.
As Benue State mourns, the memory of Mrs. Mary Yisa’s dedication and virtue will continue to inspire, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of those she served.