The Port Harcourt cemetery in Rivers State became a scene of sorrow and grief as family members, friends, and mourners bid farewell to Rebekah Sekidika, a first-class graduate of Microbiology from Benson Idahosa University. Rebekah’s untimely passing, following a medical procedure on February 2, 2024, left her loved ones in mourning.
The funeral procession began at the Military Hospital in Port Harcourt, where Rebekah’s body was retrieved from the morgue. Family members, dressed in black, were joined by relatives and friends as they escorted her remains to the ‘Vaults and Gardens’ section of the cemetery for burial.
During the somber funeral service presided over by Bishop Chris Ebata, mourners sang hymns and listened to readings from the scriptures. Bishop Ebata delivered a poignant homily, reflecting on the inevitability of death and urging attendees to reflect on their lives in the wake of Rebekah’s passing.
Emotions ran high as Rebekah’s father, Sampson Sekidika, reiterated his demand for justice, alleging negligence and incompetence on the part of the medical team responsible for his daughter’s death. He lamented the loss of a promising young life, expressing his anguish over Rebekah’s unfulfilled dreams of pursuing higher education abroad.
As Rebekah was laid to rest, rain showers fell, adding to the solemnity of the occasion. Tears flowed freely as mourners paid their final respects, with many expressing disbelief and heartache over her tragic demise.
Despite the heavy hearts and deep sorrow, Sampson Sekidika remained resolute in his pursuit of justice for his daughter, vowing to continue fighting until the truth is uncovered.
Rebekah’s premature departure has left a void in the hearts of her loved ones, but her memory will forever remain cherished as they strive to come to terms with their loss and honor her legacy.