Papa, I will miss the warmth of your arms and the deep passion with which you cared for me in particular and my other siblings. You were my close friend and confidante. We have stayed up late in the nights to share secrets and have deep talks.

You have always encouraged me to be the best in whatever I do. When other fathers were hesitant to send their female children to the universities, you insisted that I must go. You backed it up with a bank of encouragement and prayers. You made me to learn to celebrate every victory. There was always something we could smile, laugh and dance about. You have always been proud of me and of all that I have achieved. Many, many years ago when I was about six, you stood admiring me. Then you held me in your arms and declared to the whole family and anybody who cared to listen that I was the most beautiful person that you have ever seen. You added that the whole world would come looking for me to celebrate me.

When I was about nine, I came to live with you in Lagos. You opened me up to the world of books. You showed me all the marvels and gold to be dug from studying. This period marked a turning point in my life. Perhaps, this was the time my destiny was stamped into academics and life-long learning. You showed me how to do great things without fuss.

I know that you did not have an easy life. You lost your mother when you were still a very small boy. Despite all the hurdles that you started facing early in life, you did not allow these to stop you from reaching the goals that you set for yourselves. You refused to allow them make you feel bitter. Papa, you were generous. You were always ready to give to others. You treasured your family a lot and never allowed any person to do otherwise.

May your rest be sweet. I am already missing you.

 

Your daughter.

Stella Amara Aririguzoh

 

 

Papa was a kind man. He gave me a treasure called education. Although he is dead, I  still value the treasure and it is still with me.

Papa cared a lot for me. In fact, I wish he is still alive. He was the greatest man that I have ever seen. But what God has done, we cannot question Him because He is GOD.

Papa I miss you a lot already. I wish you are still alive.

 

Your grand daughter,

Victoria-Grace