Last Saturday, the late Major Alberta Boatemaa Oquaye, wife of former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Mike Oquaye, was laid to rest at the Military Cemetery in Tseadoo, Accra. Prior to the burial, funeral services were held at the Dome of the Accra International Conference Centre. The casket of Major Oquaye, adorned with national colors and beautiful flowers, was placed at the Dome, where people from all walks of life gathered to pay their final respects.
The distinguished individuals who attended the funeral included President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and First Lady Rebecca, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and Second Lady Samira, as well as various other dignitaries. Former Speakers of Parliament, Chief Justice, Chief of Staff, Deputy Speakers, Members of Parliament, ministers of state, Supreme Court Justice, Inspector General of Police, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, and many others were present. Notably, the event was also attended by representatives from educational institutions such as Presbyterian Boys’ Senior High, Aburi Girls’ Senior High, and Achimota Senior High schools.
Following the procession, tributes were read on behalf of the widower, Prof. Oquaye, the children, and the Ghana Armed Forces. Prof. Oquaye expressed the pain of writing about his beloved wife in the past tense, highlighting their over four decades of companionship. He spoke of Major Oquaye's understanding, support, and unwavering commitment throughout his various roles in pastoral, academic, diplomatic, and political domains. Prof. Oquaye gratefully acknowledged her remarkable contributions as the spouse of the Speaker, praising her suitability for the role and her grace during state functions.
During the sermon, titled "Have hope in Jesus Christ," Pastor Samuel Mohenu of the Baptist Church in Dzorwulu, Accra, encouraged the family and loved ones to find solace in their faith, as Major Mrs. Oquaye had placed her trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. He reassured them that believers are not truly gone but rather asleep, waiting for the trumpet call when Christ returns to take them home.
Major Mrs. Oquaye, a retired nurse and former military officer, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at her residence in Haatso, Accra. She had served in the Ghana Army as a nurse after completing her training in the United Kingdom.
Her expertise as a nurse/midwife greatly benefited her work in Kumasi, Sunyani, Tamale, and Accra. She held significant positions, including being in charge of the Special Officers Ward, where a reserved suite was provided for each head of state. Major Oquaye received The Outstanding Military Nightingale Award in recognition of her dedicated service to the nation and the military.
Picture: ERNEST KODZI