In the heart of Arochukwu, an ancient kingdom nestled within present-day Abia State, Nigeria, a remarkable life story has reached its final chapter. Madam Malinda Mgbafor Okereke, affectionately known as Mama Nsu Bekee, meaning “Mama who speaks English,” passed away peacefully at the age of 115, leaving behind a legacy interwoven with the threads of history, cultural transformation, and the enduring impact of a Scottish missionary named Mary Slessor. Mama Nsu Bekee’s life was a testament to resilience and a living embodiment of the triumph over a dark chapter in the region’s past.
Born in the late 19th century, around the year 1800, Mama Nsu Bekee and her twin sister, Mgbokwo, entered a world where their very existence was considered a taboo. The prevailing cultural practices of the time dictated that twins were to be killed shortly after birth and their bodies discarded in the evil forest, a practice deeply rooted in superstitious beliefs. Their birth coincided with a pivotal moment in Arochukwu’s history, as Mary Slessor, driven by her Christian faith and a profound sense of compassion, arrived in the region to embark on her missionary work. Slessor’s unwavering dedication to eradicating the practice of twin killing became a turning point for Mama Nsu Bekee and countless others, ultimately altering the course of their lives and the cultural landscape of the region.
Upon their birth, Mama Nsu Bekee and Mgbokwo were rescued by Mary Slessor and her team at their maternity in Obinagu, Amasu Village, Arochukwu. Slessor not only saved their lives but also embraced them as her own, providing them with a loving home and the opportunity for education. This act of compassion became the foundation upon which Mama Nsu Bekee’s remarkable life was built. Under Slessor’s care, the twins received formal education at Mary Slessor Primary School, Arochukwu (now Mary Slessor Secondary Technical School), where they acquired a strong command of the English language, which earned Mama Nsu Bekee her endearing nickname.
Mama Nsu Bekee’s life journey extended over a century, witnessing the transformation of Arochukwu from a society burdened by harmful traditional practices to one embracing modern values. She bore witness to the gradual erosion of the superstition surrounding twin births and the growing acceptance of twins as a blessing rather than a curse. Her life became a symbol of the positive change brought about by Mary Slessor’s tireless efforts and a testament to the power of education and compassion in shaping individuals and communities.
Mama Nsu Bekee’s passing marks the end of an era, as she was the last surviving twin rescued by Mary Slessor. Her life story serves as a powerful reminder of the dark side of human history, where cultural beliefs led to the tragic loss of innocent lives. However, her story is also one of hope and redemption, demonstrating the transformative power of love, compassion, and the unwavering dedication of individuals like Mary Slessor who dared to challenge deeply ingrained cultural norms.
Mama Nsu Bekee’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations, reminding them of the importance of standing up against injustice and fighting for the rights of the vulnerable. Her story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity. As Arochukwu bids farewell to its beloved Mama Nsu Bekee, her memory will live on as a symbol of the triumph of compassion over cruelty and the enduring impact of one woman’s mission to bring light to a dark corner of the world. Her life, once threatened by superstition, became a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a more just and compassionate future.
