Various civil society organisations have has expressed deep sorrow at the sudden demise of president of the Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA), Vilanuo Angela Yhome on July 31 in Kohima.
Naga Hoho: In its condolence message, the Naga Hoho described late Yhome as “an educationalist, a champion of women’s rights, a grassroots community worker and a pillar of the Church at the local, regional and national level.” It noted her steadfast commitment to peace and justice for the Naga people, highlighting her lifelong dedication to reconciliation, dignity and human rights.
The Naga Hoho recalled her role as a courageous and exemplary leader, stating that she was “a mother figure to every young Naga generation,” reflected not only in her service to the NMA but also in her personal and community life.
Her demise, it said, has left “a huge vacuum in the socio-political fabric of the Naga people which will not be readily or easily filled.” The organisation extended its sincere condolences to her family and loved ones, expressing hope that they would find comfort in her exceptional legacy.
“We mourn together the loss of a friend, mother, and a leader. May the Good Lord grant her soul eternal rest,” the message added.
GNF: In a condolence message, Global Naga Forum (GNF) convenor Chuba Ozukum described late Vilanuo Angela Yhome as “a devoted daughter of the Naga people” and recalled his long association with her in peace missions, reconciliation efforts and consultations on the Indo-Naga political issue. He noted that her calmness in difficult situations, compassion for the suffering and unwavering commitment to justice defined her character.
Angela’s lifelong service spanned numerous social, community, church and civil society organizations. She earned respect not for the positions she held but for the sincerity, humility and integrity with which she carried every responsibility. She was also remembered as one of the courageous women leaders who fought for the implementation of 33% reservation for women in Nagaland’s Urban Local Bodies, a milestone that will benefit generations of women.
For the GNF, she was more than a member, she was a trusted colleague, God-fearing and a firm believer in the vision of a united Nagaland beyond borders and divisions. “She clearly understood that lasting peace is built not only through political agreements but through reconciliation, compassion, and the willingness to reach out to people in need,” the message stated.
Ozukum added that Angela’s life was “truly extraordinary” in the way it touched others. “Angela fought the good fight. She kept the faith. She finished her race with dignity and honour. Though her voice is now silent, her example will continue to inspire all of us,” he said.
On behalf of the GNF, heartfelt condolences were extended to her bereaved family, the Naga Mothers’ Association and all who mourn her passing. The Forum prayed that Almighty God grant her eternal rest and that her contributions remain a blessing to the Naga people.
NSCN/GPRN (I-M): In his condolence message, ato kilonser GPRN/NSCN (I-M), Muivah described late Vilanuo Angela Yhome as “an iconic woman with a very amenable demeanor,” noting that her soft-spoken nature and strong will won many hearts. He highlighted her lifelong service in civil society organizations, where she worked tirelessly for the upliftment of women and the Naga public.
“She truly led and lived an exemplary life by sacrificing her all for the Naga society. She not only believed in the rights of the Nagas, but gave her heart and soul to work for the just cause of the Nagas,” Muivah stated.
He further remarked that her passing has left an irreplaceable void in the Naga community, adding that her sacrifices and life testimony “will remain etched in the history of the Nagas.”
Extending his deepest condolences to the bereaved family, Muivah prayed that Almighty God grant them solace and strength to overcome the tragedy. “May the soul of Vilanuo Angela Yhome find eternal peace and rest in the Lord Almighty,” he said.
LMFN: In a condolence message, Linguistic Minority Forum of Nagaland (LMFN) chairman Bishnu Bhattacharjee conveyed deepest sympathies on behalf of the Forum and the Non-Naga Permanent Settlers in Nagaland to the bereaved family, the Naga Mothers’ Association and the wider Naga community.
The Forum highlighted Angela’s unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment through her involvement in the Church, the Nagaland Catholic Women Association, the Tenyimia Women Union, the Global Naga Forum and several other organizations. Her courage, compassion and selfless leadership were described as a lasting testament to her life’s work.
Remembering her as “a fearless champion of justice, a compassionate motherly figure and a steadfast voice for the marginalized,” the Forum noted that she lived a life rooted in faith, honesty and unwavering principles, inspiring countless people across communities.
Her noble legacy, it added, “will continue to shine as a beacon of hope and service.” The Forum prayed that the Almighty grant eternal peace to her departed soul and bestow strength, comfort and divine grace upon her family and all who mourn the irreparable loss.
Mao Council: In a condolence message, Mao Council president, N. Athikho Joseph, stated that late Vilanuo Angela Yhome was a truly respected leader who dedicated her entire life for the cause of peace, justice and welfare of the Nagas. “Her selfless service is irreplaceable and has left a vacuum that can never be filled,” the release mentioned.
The council conveyed its deepest condolences to the bereaved family members and relatives at this moment of grief and prayed to let her soul rest in eternal peace.
ZYFN: In its condolence message, the Zeliangrong Youth Front Nagaland (ZYFN) described late Vilanuo Angela Yhome as “a remarkable woman whose unwavering commitment, selfless service and tireless dedication towards the welfare, peace and progress of the Naga people have left an enduring legacy.”
ZYFN noted that her passing is an immense loss not only to her family and the NMA but to the entire Naga community. It emphasized that her invaluable contributions and steadfast leadership will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude, adding that “it will indeed be difficult to replace a personality of such dedication, wisdom, and compassion.”
On behalf of the Zeliangrong community, the Forum extended solidarity to the bereaved family, acknowledging her sacrifices and invaluable services rendered for the upliftment of the Naga society. “Her life of service will continue to inspire generations to come,” the message stated.
The ZYFN prayed that Almighty God grant eternal rest to her departed soul and bestow divine comfort upon her family, the Naga Mothers’ Association and all who mourn her passing.
ZMON: In a condolence message, Zeliangrong Mipui Organisation Nagaland (ZMON) described Vilanuo Angela Yhome passing as a great loss to the NMA and the wider Naga community. The organisation highlighted Yhome’s dedication, leadership and lifelong service to the people, particularly her contributions in promoting peace, justice and welfare.
They acknowledged Yhome’s role as a respected leader who worked tirelessly to uphold the dignity and rights of women while fostering unity and harmony among the Naga people. Her efforts, ZMON stated, left a lasting impact on society and will be remembered as part of her legacy.
Extending words of comfort, ZMON conveyed prayers for strength, peace and solace to the bereaved family and all mourners. The organisation reaffirmed its solidarity with the NMA and the Naga community during this time of grief.
Monday, August 3, 2026