Closure for grieving Myeni family
The body of the Zululander who died in the Nigerian church tragedy has returned home.
UTHUNGULU District Municipality Deputy Mayor Thulani Mashaba has made an impassionate plea to the family of a Zululander who died in the Nigerian church tragedy, to remain strong.
Mashaba was speaking at the Myeni residence in Nseleni township on Monday after returning from King Shaka International Airport in Durban where KZN Premier Senzo Mchunu had met with five families of victims of the Nigerian disaster.
He said even though this was a painful experience for the family, all was not lost.
‘We are here to give hope to the family that they must remain strong and always remember that God is the only one who has all the answers for what happens in our lives. We can only hope that this marks closure of the family’s long, painful journey. Prayer is one thing that the Myeni family needs right now,’ Mashaba said.
What started as a solemn message turned into a moving sermon for Eric Myeni, the father of the late Sabelo.
He spoke openly of what the tragedy has taught him.
‘Firstly I would be failing in my duties as the head of this family if I don’t commend President Zuma and his government for their unequivocal support. I’m really touched by how they responded to this tragedy.’
Myeni praised a team of officials led by the Minister in the Presidency, Jeff Radebe, who facilitated the return of the remains of all those who died in Nigeria.
The late Sabelo Myeni, who worked for Tata Steel KZN, was due to tie the knot in January with his fiancee Nomfundo.
‘The waiting was unbearable. As you know, culturally we only keep bodies for one week before burial, but this time the waiting was too long.
‘We have also seen visitors coming here telling us good stories about Sabelo, the things he did, and how he was helpful to those in need,’ Myeni senior said.
Sabelo will be laid to rest in Mkhuze on Saturday.
Other victims of the tragedy – Thuthukani and Nonhlanhla Ngcobo of Durban will be buried in Melmoth, while Nomsa Nyawo of uMlazi will be laid to rest at Ingwavuma.
