My grandfather (grandpa) was not a man I lived with everyday, but from the time I spent with him I learnt virtues that spoke much louder than the man who lived them. I never knew grandpa as someone who spoke a lot. His actions were his most valuable mode of communication.

I have to confess, I did not know much about grandpa until my last encounter with him. I learned of his time in the police force and realized his passion to serve. He told me how amazing it was to serve Nigeria through the Nigerian Police Force and how the country has changed since his time of service.

Grandpa’s strong belief in fairness and equalitarianism was one thing I always heard from my mom. I finally got to witness this virtue of his in a mini debate between one of my aunts and him. They were sharing views on politicians in Edo state and as grandpa discussed his points I observed that he did so and avoided being visceral. Although he did not support the actions of the person that was the main subject of discussion, he considered the good side of the person. The side most people tend to erase when arguing against a person. Grandpa recognized that this person was human just as we all are and deserved fair judgment.

Again, Grandpa was not someone I knew who talked too much, but when he spoke, his words sounded simple but always required some deep reflections. As the great 
philosopher - Plato - once said, “Wise men talk because they have something to say; fools talk because they have to say something.”

My grandfather truly loved all his grandchildren and so did we love him too. In Matthew 26:52 Jesus says, those who live by the sword will die by the sword. I also believe the in the reverse; those who live a peaceful life will also find peace at death. The manner in which God called grandpa is a reflection of what he stood for - peace.

Grandpa, on behalf of all your grandchildren, may your humble soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Amen.

Oghosa Igbinakenzua 

DADDY’S LEGACY

There are men who make their mark in this world by growing up to be sports legends, famous celebrities, inventors, politicians, professionals in one field or the other, or maybe even the President.

Then there are also those who inspire family and friends to be kings of their court, simply by loving them.

The latter are the ones who make the biggest impact, albeit quietly, by the legacy they leave behind.

The Bible teaches us to love one another as that is the greatest thing one can do for another. Dad loved and was loved. The Bible also enjoins us to be kind one to another, tender hearted. Dad, you proved this was doable even in today’s world. You stood firmly for justice, equity and good conscience even when the odds were stacked against you.    

To me, you were an inspiration. The countless things you did for me and lessons you thought me over the years, have helped to make me who I am today. No thanks could ever be enough, except to make sure I don’t go below your standard, as a father to my own children.

It is impossible to express in these few words the height, width, length and dept of love and compassion, you demonstrated, but the impression you made in the life of those who knew you will live on. Though the sadness and pain of your exit is great, I know you would want us to focus on your legacy and the principles you lived by.    

In memorial, I say this to you, believe in Love, believe in Truth, believe in Honesty, believe in Trust because these things are real, my Dad was a living evidence, and if you were touched by his life, the best you can do is to PAY IT FORWARD. Be Kind One to Another, Love One Another.  That was Daddy’s passion. That is what he would want of you.

Love you Dad, always.

Obosa.