Dimapur, December 27 (MExN): The condolence service of Late Temjenyanger Aier, President, NPGN/NNC (N/A) was held on December 23 at the Aoyimsen panchayat ground and the coffin kept at the rostrum for public view and to pay last homage to the departed “patriot”.
All rank and file of NPGN/NNC (N/A) led by Ato Kilonser Hozheto Z Chophi, leaders from different NNPGs, Aoyimsen Village Council, Aoyimsen Baptist Church members and well wishers from different walks of life attended the funeral service, according to a press release from N. Mar Ao, MIP Kilonser, NPGN/NNC (N/A).
In the first session of the funeral service, Dr. Senti, chairman of Aoyimsen Village Council remembered Temjenyanger as a man with a vision, God fearing, peacemaker and true patriot who had sacrificed his entire life for the cause of Nagas and for the community of Aoyimsen village in particular. During difficult situation, he said, Temjenyanger “courageously led the people as the founding member of Aoyimsen village despite so many obstacles and difficulties faced during the initial stage.”
Temjenyanger's daughter described her father as a good shepherd, loving father, courageous person, and a man with the personality of ‘Slow to anger and quick to reconcile.' She also said her late father was a great prayer warrior and always ready to help the people in need, the release said.
Terming Temjenyanger as sincere and selfless, his brother said the deceased dedicated his entire life for the common cause of Naga national integrity and sovereignty. Aoyimsen Baptist Church pastor recounted Late Temjenyanger was a dynamic preacher of forgiveness and unity; a God fearing religious and visionary leader.
In the second session, N. Mar Ao, MIP Kilonser, NPGN/NNC (N/A) in his opening speech extended heartfelt gratitude to all the well wishers, especially leaders from different NNPGs. He termed Temjenyanger as a true statesman and “most honest and humble patriot whose entire life had been tendered for the common cause of Nagas.”
Ato Kilonser Hozheto L Chophi described Temjenyanger as the “most exceptional Naga patriot whose guiding principle of forgiveness and non violence has led to unify the Naga national workers to a great extent.” Meanwhile, Azheto Chophi, Advisor to the collective leadership of GPRN/NSCN described the deceased as a true patriot and an honest Naga national leader whose contribution made tremendous change in unifying the NNPGs. Pointing out that Temjenyanger held fast on the principle of non violence, he encouraged the Nagas to follow the legacy of forgiveness and unity which Temjenyanger left behind.
General Secretary of GDRN/NNC (N/A), Hetoi Chophi recalled his short association with late Temjenyanger and acknowledged his commitment towards Naga National sovereignty stating he had “stood firm on nothing less than the sovereignty of Nagas since it was their birth right.”
Yapang Ao of NNC (Parent Body) said that with the demise of Temjenyanger Aier, the “Nagas have lost the dictionary.” He lamented that the Nagas have lost one of the visionary fathers and great source of wisdom and knowledge of Naga political history.
The programme culminated with mass silent prayer followed by benediction by Kilo Kilonser of NPGN/NNC (N/A), Vizheto.
The NPGN/NNC (N/A) declared 7 days mourning as sign of sorrow and giving honour to the departed soul, the release said.
It also extended heartfelt gratitude to all who had supported through prayer, financially and physical presence during the sad hour.
NPGN/NNC (N/A) appoints Acting Prez
Owing to the sudden demise of its President, Temjenyanger Aier, NPGN/ NNC (N/A) has appointed Ovung Lotha, Political Affair Kilonser as Acting President till the next session of Tatar Hoho for the appointment of a new president. This was informed in a press release issued by N Mar Ao, MIP Kilonser, NPGN/NNC (N/A).
NTC offfers condolences
The Nagaland Tribes Council (NTC) has expressed shock at the sudden demise of the departed Naga National leader Temjenyanger Aier, President of NPGN/NNC (NA) at his residence in Dimapur. “Temjenyanger was a committed worker for Naga political aspirations and has left a strong legacy in our journey for a common goal,” stated NTC in a condolence note. “Late Temjenyanger Aier had demonstrated his magnanimity and commitment towards bringing a lasting Naga political solution by promptly responding to the call of the NTC to work for collective and inclusive solution by joining a Working Group towards unification of NNPGs and for a common solution.” Acknowledging that his death has caused vacuum and loss for the Nagas, the NTC sent its deepest condolence to the bereaved family and all the rank and file of the NPGN/NNC (NA).
