DIMAPUR, JAN 25 (MExN): Former President, Naga Council, Dimapur N. T Longkumer who passed away yesterday evening after a prolonged illness was laid to rest at his Duncan Basti residence here today.
Hundreds of mourners from all walks of life paid rich floral tributes in a funeral service that was marked by the presence of his former mentors, colleagues, well-wishers and members of the public who thronged his residence to pay their last respects. Some of those present included the State Chief Secretary P. Talitemjen, Commissioner T.N Mannen, Naga Council Dimapur President Savi Liegise, former Principal Patkai Christian College Tuisem Shishak and GPRN Kilonser A.K Lungalang. Besides, a host of public and Church leaders were present.
Born in 1928, N. T. Longkumer was the eldest son among six children of late Mr. Noklennukshi Longkumer and late Mrs. Meyilemla of Yaongyimsen village.
Many of those who spoke at the funeral service said that it was unquestionably a great loss to the Naga public and that the vacuum left behind would be difficult to fill.
It was also a time of remembering the works of Late N.T Longkumer who was described as a man of God, a staunch Christian and a messenger of peace.
Those who spoke included Naga Council President Savi Liegise, the R. Nochet Changkiri Ao Union, W. Kithan of Anchor Society, Judson Rungsung Principal Patkai Christian College. Besides, the Langpangkong Union, Dimapur, the Yaongyimsen Union, Dimapur, Yaongyimsen – Kosasanger Putu also paid floral tributes. Three of Late N.T Longkumer’s closest friends among those Yajen Aier, Rongsen and Manik Bhattarchajee also spoke. Thejano, wife of Late N.T Longkumer and his eldest son Bendang, General Manager of NIDC also gave touching testimonies. A brief message from his two daughters based in the United States was also read out during the service.
Besides, condolence messages from Goa Governor SC Jamir, Leader of Opposition I. Imkong, the Collective Leadership of the NSCN and Nagaland MP Wangyuh Konyak were also read out.
The students of OTS bade a melodic adieu with “Jesus, Saviour, Pilot Me” which happens to be Late N.T Longkumer’s favourite song.
The funeral message was conveyed by Rev. N. Tzüdir, Dimapur Ao Baptist Church who likewise performed the last rites and after which Late N.T Longkumer’s body was finally laid to rest at his family cemetery. The funeral service was conducted by Rev. Dr. Wati Aier, Principal of OTS College.
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