Organisations mourn demise of Dr. Hokishe Yepthomi

Several organisations and leaders have mourned the demise of Dr Hokishe Yepthomi, former president of Sumi Hoho, who passed away on July 29 at Eden Hospital, Dimapur.
G. Kaito Aye: Minister of PWD (R&B), G Kaito Aye described Dr Yepthomi as a guiding light and transformative figure in the Sümi community. He recalled his tireless efforts in preserving Sümi traditions and promoting education. Kaito said late Yepthomi was an educator and a mentor, who was instrumental in improving education in the area and beyond. “In his demise, Satakha has lost an elder whose vision helped shape the aspirations of our people,” Kaito stated.
GRPN/NSCN (U): GPRN/NSCN (Unification), led by president MB Neokpao Konyak and ato kilonser Alezo Venuh, has deeply mourned the passing of Dr Hokishe Yepthomi, describing him as a visionary and stalwart who upheld unity and solidarity among Nagas.
In a condolence message, the group recalled Dr Hokishe’s unwavering service even in failing health, noting his key roles as an active member of “Concerned Senior Citizens” and Convener of the Sumi Migration Research Committee.
GPRN/NSCN (U) highlighted Dr Hokishe’s efforts in promoting unity among Naga political groups, particularly the NSCNs, and guiding the process of Unification. His contributions in negotiations with the Government of India were also acknowledged, stating that he upheld the core ideologies of the Naga movement.
“He strived for political solution till his last breath so the coming generation may live free from social insecurity, fear and apprehensions,” the group said.
GPRN/NSCN (U) expressed solidarity with the bereaved family and the Sumi community, while urging all Naga political organisations to fulfil Dr Hokishe’s vision for lasting peace and honourable resolution.
SOUD: Sumi Officers Union Dimapur (SOUD) has expressed grief over the demise of Dr Hokishe Yepthomi, describing him as a committed educationist and community leader who made a lasting impact across religious and social spheres.
In a condolence message, SOUD acknowledged Dr Hokishe’s lifelong dedication to public service and his significant achievements, noting that his writings enriched and influenced readers within the Sumi and wider Naga communities. “He lived by his words and remained a great teacher till his last breath,” it stated.
SOUD highlighted Dr Hokishe’s ability to unite people in difficult times and his unwavering pursuit of justice and progress. “His legacy will live on in the values he stood for,” it added.
The union extended condolences to his wife, Vitoli Hoky, and all bereaved family members, praying that the Almighty grant them strength and comfort in this moment of sorrow.
NSCN/GPRN (Akato): NSCN/GPRN (Akato) has expressed deep sorrow at the demise of Dr Hokishe Yepthomi, former president of Sumi Hoho and chairman of the Sumi Literature Board (SLB), who passed away on July 29 at Eden Hospital, Dimapur.
In a condolence message issued through its MIP, the group described Dr Hokishe as a selfless and dedicated social worker from Satakha area under Zunheboto district, whose contributions left a lasting imprint on society. “He leaves behind a legacy as a dynamic social activist cherished by both his progeny and friends,” the statement noted.
NSCN/GPRN termed his demise a great loss to the Sumi community and Nagas at large, remembering him as a pioneer and a pathfinder. The organisation also prayed for comfort and strength for the bereaved family and friends, and that the departed soul rest in peace. NSCN/GPRN (Akato) expressed grief at the loss of a pioneer and pathfinder, noting his legacy as a dynamic social activist would remain cherished by many.
SDF: Sumi Discussion Forum (SDF) has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Dr Hokishe Yeputhomi, calling him a towering figure whose life was dedicated to faith, service, and the welfare of his people.
In a condolence note, SDF noted that Dr Hokishe was born into a family of distinguished leaders— he was the second son of late Hetoi Yeputhomi, a respected Chief of Sükhalu village and recipient of the British Empire Medal (B.E.M.), and Late Zügholi H. Jimomi.
He was married to Vitoli Zhimomi, youngest sister of Küghato Sükhai, Ato Kilonser of the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN), and General Kaito Sükhai, Commander-in-Chief of the Naga National Army. His family ties reflect a rich legacy of leadership, courage, and dedication to the Naga cause.
Dr Hokishe was known for his strong faith and leadership in Christian ministry. He served as the first chairman of United Revival Fellowship (URF) and led SBAK Nito Mount from 1993 to 2003. He was also part of Bible Society of India, Nagaland Baptist Church Council, and NBCC’s Peace Committee—championing revival and unity across churches.
In public life, he served as president of Sümi Hoho, convener of the Sümi Migration Research Committee, and advisor to the Nagaland Tribal Council. He played a key role in building unity among the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs), promoting understanding and peace.
A scholar and educator, Dr Hokishe was principal of Highland School, Satakha, even at age 88. As chairman of the Sumi Literature Board, he worked for two decades to preserve Sumi language and literature. He also authored Crossroad: Concise Historical Events in the Naga Political Struggle, contributing to Naga history and identity.
SDF said he was not only a visionary leader but also a peacemaker, educator, and humble servant of God. “His legacy will live on in the churches he strengthened, the communities he united, and the history he recorded,” it stated. SDF extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and the larger Naga community, and prayed for God’s comfort and eternal peace to the departed soul.
SKK: All Sumi Students Union (SKK) in a condolence message described Dr Yepthomi as a pillar of the Sumi community whose leadership and advocacy had a lasting impact. “His wisdom and dedication will continue to guide the future,” the statement read.
SKK stated that Dr Hokishe embodied the spirit of dedication, wisdom, and selflessness. His lifelong advocacy for community interests, cultural preservation, and literary contributions was remembered as transformative and deeply influential.
SKK noted that his leadership as president of Sumi Hoho and his role as chairman of the Sumi Literature Board left an enduring impact.
The union extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends and well-wishers, and prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul.
STF: Sumi Thinkers Forum (STF) has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of its advisor, Dr Hokishe Yepthomi, on July 29. In a condolence message, STF described him as a genuine leader who carried a deep concern for societal welfare. “His passing leaves behind a great void that will be difficult to fill,” the forum stated, while praying for peace and comfort for the bereaved family.
CNTC: Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC) also mourned Dr Hokishe’s demise, recalling him as a man of wisdom, humility and quiet strength.
As one of the founding members of the Nagaland Tribes Council, the CNTC said his contributions to community and society would be fondly remembered.
CNTC extended heartfelt condolences to his family and close associates, and regret its inability to attend the funeral but prayed that the Lord grant comfort and peace to the bereaved family members.