THE MINSTREL GOES HOME IN STYLE : Gospel artistes pay last respects to Patty Obasi

Gospel artistes pay last respects to Patty Obasi Emotions ran high recently when the remains of legendary gospel singer, Patty Obasi was laid to rest in his home town, Nmakwu, in Ogwu Local Government Area of Enugu State. Obasi, whose popular album, “Nwa Mammy Water”, shot him to limelight, died at his Enugu residence in October, last year, after he reportedly slipped into unconsciousness. He was down with kidney failure since two years ago and his doctor said he needed not less than N10 million to transplant his two failed kidneys in India. Among all the elaborate funeral rites lined up for the late gospel music legend, his “Tribute Night” by Nigeria gospel musicians was remarkable. It was overwhelming attended by celebrated and budding gospel artistes within and outside the shores of the country who are mostly “gospel music children” of the late music legend. These included the legendary Brothers Emma and Lazarus of “Voice Of The Cross” (Who stormed the event from their US-base), Prince Gozie and PrincessNjidekaOkeke of the Akanchawa fame, RosemaryChukwu, Luke Ezeji, Chika Okpala, RuthAni, Israel Anyamele, Blessed Samuel, Gilbert Okolie, Felix Ndukwe, Oluchi Okeke, UcheNdukwe, James Arum, Joy Okam, Vision Adike among others. The artistes took turn to perform inspiring gospel tunes in honour of the deceased. The noteworthy event also witnessed a standout performance by Patty’s wife while his three children who are set to step into their father shoes did justice to one of his songs to the delight of the large audience that attended the funeral rites. Obasi would be remembered for his timeless gospel hits that shot him to national and international stardom. These are “Nwa Mammy Water,” “Billionaire in a crate”, “Agunechemba”, “Ezi Nwanyi Di Uko” and a host of others.