Madam Malinda Mgbafor Okereke, affectionately known as Mama Nsu Bekee, the last surviving female twin rescued over a century ago by Scottish Missionary Mary Slessor in the Arochukwu Ancient Kingdom of Abia State, has passed away at the remarkable age of 115. A statement issued by her only surviving son, Bishop Okechukwu Okereke, to newsmen in Umuahia, Abia State capital, confirmed her demise on March 5, following a brief illness.

Madam Okereke and her twin sister, Mgbokwo, who passed on almost two decades ago, were born during a period when the harmful traditional practice of killing twins was prevalent in Arochukwu and other communities in the Lower Cross River region. Around the 1800s, the birth of twins was considered taboo, and newborns were often killed and cast into the evil forest. Mary Slessor, arriving in the area for missionary work, famously enforced a ban on twin murder in 1876, radically transforming the cultural landscape.

The birth of Mgbafor and Mgbokwo was directly overseen by Slessor and her team at their maternity in Obinagu, Amasu Village, Arochukwu. The twins were subsequently adopted and fostered by Slessor herself, marking a pivotal moment in their lives. This direct care extended to their education, as both sisters received formal schooling at Mary Slessor Primary School, Arochukwu, which is now known as Mary Slessor Secondary Technical School.

Their education under Slessor's tutelage resulted in the twins acquiring a sound command of the English Language. This linguistic proficiency is what earned Madam Mgbafor her notable nickname, 'Mama Nsu Bekee,' which translates to 'Mama that speaks English,' a testament to her unique upbringing and capabilities.

Bishop Okechukwu Okereke described his mother as a strong, always neatly dressed, and joyful individual up until her final moments. She will be laid to rest on Saturday, August 30, in her family compound at Amasu, Arochukwu, following a funeral service at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria. Madam Okereke, who initially had three children—a daughter and two sons—is survived by one son, numerous grand and great-grandchildren, and many relatives, leaving behind a profound legacy rooted in resilience and historical significance.