Madam Malinda Mgbafor Okereke, the last surviving female twin rescued by Scottish missionary Mary Slessor, has died at the age of 115.
Her death was confirmed by her only surviving son, Bishop Okechukwu Okereke, in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday.
Her passing marks the end of a chapter that once symbolized a victorious fight against a dark cultural practice.
Born over a century ago during a time when twin births were feared and condemned in many parts of Southern Nigeria, Madam Mgbafor’s life told a story of hope.
Twin children were once seen as curses and were abandoned or killed in evil forests.
However, that narrative changed when Mary Slessor arrived in the region and began her campaign to save twins from death.
According to the statement, “The birth of Mgbafor and her twin sister, Mgbokwo, who passed away nearly two decades ago, was not only attended to by Slessor and her team, but the twins were also adopted and fostered by Slessor herself.”
The twins were born at Slessor’s maternity home in Obinagu, Amasu Village in Arochukwu.
They were not just saved but nurtured under her protection.
Slessor, who became a mother figure to them, ensured they received basic education and a safe upbringing.
Under her care, they attended Mary Slessor Primary School, now renamed Mary Slessor Secondary Technical School, Arochukwu.
Malinda grew up to be fluent in English, earning her the nickname “Mama Nsu Bekee,” which means “Mama that speaks English.”
“She was strong, always neatly dressed, and full of joy until her last moments before her demise on March 5, following a brief illness,” her son, Bishop Okechukwu, shared while mourning her passing.
Malinda Mgbafor’s life was a symbol of triumph over cultural oppression.
She lived not just a long life, but one full of significance.
Moreover, she carried the legacy of Mary Slessor’s compassion and commitment to saving lives.
She is survived by her son, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended relatives.
Her funeral will take place on August 30, starting with a service at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, after which she will be buried in her family home in Amasu, Arochukwu.
The grace of long life in health