My dear Uncle and father may the good Lord continue to bless your gentle soul and spirit as you are no more troubled by the sorrows and pains of this present world anymore that is already passing away everyday.
As l grow older everyday tears rolls down my eyes to realiaze that l have lost
someone so dear and precious to me as a child and as an adult but l bless
the Lord Jesus Christ who gave me the previledge of knowing him before you left this wicked and sinful generation.
l have nothing much to say further about you as many past and present tributes decribes the Lord's Jesus Christ l found in you knowing that God personally talked to me about you and how much he loves the heart in you simple blc you loved humanity in general and even extends love to those who hate you and your  family members.
You preached love and forgiveness and had never slept and woke up with the past and sometimes will not even rememebered what was said yesterday about you on any bad taste or issue.  .
l will always remain grateful to my grand-mum for producing you and all his chidren that are still outstanding characters and stars that we have benefited so much godly, royal and lovely wisdom we found in you all.
it is my present duty to manifest all that l learnt from you and the rest of your family members.
  The Love,kindness,grace,peace you have ex-tended to many in this world,never disciminated aganist anyone despite their status or situation,may get angry at ugly situations but have never deny anyone any help or support.
l sincerely pray that God will raise many more people who will go beyond their selfish greedy and lust in this world to carry on from where you people stopped as you and yor brother's life is a witness that is not easy to love and love all and that love is not laughter,living together,sharing the same faith,or being one family nor friendship is a thing of the mind,sincere,holy,selfless and only given from God that can only be pratcised by those who have and allowed it.
You life and your brothers was a sign of Christ as l have read and is reading the bible because before you people's eyes everyone is the same and deserves the right to exist thats why you two worked so hard to lift those who had nothing in their background and make them become kings they were not.
How l admire you people's courage and strength but was too young to understand now, that actually as l grow older l realized that my grand -mother the queen produced  these wonderful blessed mermories.
  This l rejoice in God and your legacies? who wouldn't be proud and rejoice over such testimonies.
May the good Lord give you and your brother late Chief lna ,E.OBASI the peace and rest your souls deserves as we will do no less but more to keep the family flag going in the name of Jesus Amen and Amen.     


Blessings
Chidinma Eziyi (Niece,daughter)             
   

Felix Iroaganachi

I was just browsing,and happened to stumble on this website.  I read with shock about the demise of this great man - Chief Obasi.  I knew Chief Obasi, through his son - Obasi Jr. in Lagos, in the late 80's.

Chief Obasi, was a great man.  He was father, everyone would love to have.  I lack the exact word to discribe him because he touched so many lives while on earth.  I was blessed knowing him and his family. 

May The Almighty God grant his soul Eternal Rest, and also grant his beloved family he left behind the courage to bear his irreparrable loss.

REST IN PEACE:  CHIEF OBASI.

Felix Iroaganachi.
353899725087. 

PaPa one of the things you taught me pesonally was always to be very strong and never allow defeat.
As a child of 8yrs when l found myself in your house your were a father and an uncle.your loving nature made me to understand who you were and made me pray for everything you will do better till eternity.
You taught me to look beyond my challenges and overcome the things that stood before me as a child and one of those was your history from your mother's house our precious grand mum iyam Effiem whom faith permitted to produce her precious four children chief ina obasi,mgbo Kalu my mum and aunty ijeoma. As God is very proud of you people so we are because is not easy to come form such royal characters and nobel family as you people represent.You made me to realise that we can always stand tall anywhere inrespective of our challenges sharing your histoy and many raods to the level you attained in life.You loved all and was ready to make it for anyone who felt left out or wronged if you have your way. Despite all you were able to achive God's will in your life that everyone ends your story as a good heart.Love was your focus at the end we will not stop as your family to celebrate you and your brothers and sisters it is our duty to keep the legacy and family of our grand mum going is our God's given history and we will not move the ancient land mark than continue with history you are a great man with  the kind of love you shared with your brother&his wife Mama uku,your sisters and the rest of the family that you kept to the end is more than a man.We will speak it and testify of it as love is greater than silver and gold thank you so much as this world is passing away and it shall be  who will men say that we are when we are gone and you have a testimony greater than othewise.Rest on in peace in the bosom of the Lord Amen
The Eziyi's family will personally keep your flag on.
 

The sad news of the death of Chief  Uba  E. Obasi was received with great shock as he was in good health when I was with him last year and again early this year when I visited him before he left Nigeria to USA, little did I know that the jokes we shared was going to be the last time we will be together.

We cannot question God as HE giveth and taketh. I thank God that Chief Uba E. Obasi prepared well for it by living a fulfilled life in the fear of God. A pleasant philanthropist who readily made contributions of note to what he considered "worthy causes". His good deeds has been recorded and shall be read through the ages as he positively touched the lives of many people. He has fought the good fight finished his race and has gone the way of all mortals. To us the living Ecclesiates 7 vs 2 says "Death is the destiny of every man and the living will lay it to his heart"

May the Good Lord give the family the fortitude to bear the loss and the grace to continue the race to the glory of God.

Adieu "Oke Ogom".

Adieu Ninety nine plus One!!

May your spirit rest In the Bossom of Our Lord.

Amen.

ENYI (Mrs) Eunice Ugonma Obianwu

CHIEF UBA EKEAGBARA OBASI – A TRIBUTE

Every once in a rare while, perhaps in a matter of generations, the Good Lord bestows on a community or people an individual of great vision and ability, who is destined to be a force for good in the community and for countless individual members of that community. Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi (Ete Uba to most) was undoubtedly one such individual – a man of great qualities and accomplishments, as attested to in the many tributes expressed since the sad event.

Of singular importance, to my mind, in terms of enduring legacy, is the example which he showed in his life and life style of how we Africans, straddling two civilizations and cultures - the indigenous and the modern – can embrace modernity while retaining the values and traditions that make us unique as Africans. As at home in the traditional elders’ caucus as in the modern Board Room (and Ballroom), Ete Uba was a pioneer in blending the requirements of modern existence with the demands of ancient traditions and culture. He did, for example, demonstrate to the indigenous businessman how to effectively upgrade to the modern company-based model, while retaining the values of personal trust on which the old business transactions were based.

More importantly, transcending the realm of business, his life provides a valuable lesson for today’s African on how one can indeed be “modern” and “civilized” without giving up on being African! This is significant in the wake of the on-going onslaught of Western values and fashions, borne on the wings of modern communications technology and so-called social networking mediums (Face Book, Twitter, Flick’r, etc.), which has left many people in the developing countries wondering whether there would be much, if anything, surviving of their own values and ways of life in the very near future! Thanks to people like Ete Uba, we know that our values and way of life as Africans can indeed survive - if only we emulate their lives. This is a notable contribution to the African and developing country cause! 

Among the countless individuals referred to above whose lives were touched positively by Ete Uba are myself and the entire Okali family, to whom he showed great attachment and brotherly affection. I myself was a beneficiary of this affection, not only as a young school boy living in his household, but over the years as he continued throughout his life to extend to me his goodwill and support in many diverse ways. It is an eloquent testimony to this relationship that when, some years back, I went to Awkuzu in Anambra State to marry my wife, Ifeoma, it was to Ete Uba that the good people of Awkuzu pointedly handed her over as their “in-law” in Abiriba to whom they entrusted her welfare. This is a role which, as was his way, he discharged with great success and relish! It is now a cliché, of course, to say of the departed person that he would be missed by his community and, indeed, by people at large. Be that as it may, if ever such a  statement was true, it surely is so with Ete Uba and the many communities to which he belonged, extending well beyond Abiriba, through Aba, to Port Harcourt and further afield. My wife, Ifeoma, and I already miss him and we pray God for eternal rest in Heaven for his kind and gentle soul! 

-     Dr. Agwu Ukiwe Okali

Former United Nations Assistant Secretary-General

TRIBUTE OF NDE NNEM EGBICHIOKEN FAMILY

Nde Nnem Egbichioken kwenu! kwenu!!

We celebrate the life of our Great One ,the  Leader and the Head of our great family,"Nde Nnem Egbichioken"-CHIEF UBA EKEAGBARA OBASI.  He was a Father, Husband, Brother, Uncle; a Man of Vision ,Business  Magnate  and  Philanthropist, well respected and admired by his community and the many who knew him.

We the family of Nde Nnem Egbichioken worldwide are proud to have had you,  Hon.Rtn. Chief  Uba Ekeagbara Obasi- a distinguished Rotarian and a Paul Harris Fellow, world  renown Great man, Father to all, Uncle to our Generation, Mentor to all our  Offsprings, Peace Maker and a Man of the People-as our illustrious son.

You and your late brother ,CHIEF INA EKEAGBARA OBASI, made it possible for every member of our family to benefit from your wealth, either through education or trade. Your achievements were too numerous to count! If there is re-incarnation, we wish you to return to this great family of  Nde Nnem Egbichioken, where great men and women are born! It is obvious that you have returned to your Creator, which was inevitable but your memories will remain with us whom you touched and nurtured.

"NINETY NINE!"," OCHI OHA 1!"," OGBUEFI!", we love you.

Rest in Perfect Peace,

Amen.

CHIEF MANG ORJI EJITURU

FOR THE FAMILY.

           Uncle Uba – A Man of the People 

(Adapted from remarks delivered by Dr.J.N.K.Odim on behalf of the Odims at the Celebration of Life in honor of Uba Ekeagbara Obasi on 3rd December 2011, in Atlanta, Georgia)

To Aunt Kalaria, the Obasi family -- children,  grandchildren and great grandchildren –- other family members and special friends; the Odims celebrate with you the brilliant life of our Uncle.  Every moment we shared was a joy because Uncle Uba was a good man, a funny man (I can still hear his infectious rumbling belly laughter), and an inspirational man. He was also a great man – a man of the people who lived a life full of sparkle and spice.

I first journeyed to colonial Nigeria with my mother (Emma Marie Cheek Odim)  and 2 brothers, Carlton and Dale, to rejoin Dad.  We spent time at Number 15 Harbor Road in Port Harcourt. This was in the days of the dawn of Nigeria’s independence from Number 10 Downing Street.  At that time, I recall, my mother travelled with an International driver’s license but needed to get a local driver’s license to get around.  She went to the licensing authority to get this document.  After a day of hot and sweaty frustration and getting no where; she left empty handed and rather put off by her experience.  Somehow, Uncle Uba got wind of mom’s trials, tribulations and tears and … poof … like magic, he shows up with my mother’s new Nigerian driver’s license in hand and presented it to her.  I’m still not quite sure how he pulled that out of his bag of tricks.  But, yes, he was a man of the people.  Now, I’m sure everyone in this room can share a similar frustration.  Just a few days ago, last Tuesday, I was trying to renew my Nigerian passport at the Nigeria Consulate in D.C., for the second full perspiring day in two weeks.  This upgrade was for the new and improved, super, duper Nigerian ePassport.  The e must stand for endless and eternal waiting! All I could say at the time was … where is Chief Uba when you need him?  

Many of you remember when my father (Dr. Usim Odim) was alive. He and Uncle Uba shared a special relationship.  That symbiotic bond was magnified by my father’s unforeseen decision to practice medicine in Ibadan and not in Port Harcourt or some other place in the East when he first returned to Nigeria from his studies in  America.  Whenever Uba was in town, or our family travelled home to the East, I recall the many late nights and early morning consultations between Uba and my father.   The hearty and sometimes heated discussions were always about pressing family and business matters, Abiriba shenanigans and tomfoolery, politics, and last but not least, the vital importance of education and a life of continual learning and self-improvement.  And of course, most importantly for me, I remember, was the graveyard of empty STAR beer bottles and caps I eagerly collected to play Checkers or Draught (draft). Their partnership most certainly rivals the other great duos in history:  Batman and Robin, Felix and Oscar, or even detective Starsky and Hutch.  Or from the Greek, we learned at the Chapel service earlier this evening -- the alpha and the omega.

On a more sober note, just last week, we learned Ojukwu, another giant, has passed on.  This news served a jolting reminder of the Biafra-Nigeria civil war that tore the Nigerian sociopolitical fabric to shreds.  Back then, things did fall apart and we were no longer at ease.  And today, we a still trying to stitch the pieces back together again.  This hardship was a tragic conflict for all.  Our surviving family members shared with us some great tales of true grit and courage during those trying years.  And like a cat with nine lives Uncle Uba again rebuilt his family and his businesses.   On the way back up, he was occasionally sighted, without the signature grey beard or goatee, masquerading in a doctor’s white coat with stethoscope hanging around his neck.  The impersonation was further evidence for his special relationship with my father.

Chief Uba did not attend King’s College, Hope Waddell, or one of the Government Colleges at Uzuakoli, Umuahia or Owerri.  Neither did he saunter down the ivy hallways at Oxford, Cambridge or Harvard.  Uncle Uba made up for the lack of formal education and training with savvy street smarts, charm and nimble feet.  On the occasion of my youngest brother’s (Onu) wedding, at the Bolling Air Force Officers’ Club in the nation’s capital;  Uncle Uba was deputized -- the father of the groom for this occasion.  And during the wedding reception, this privilege gave him the first dance with the bride (Nikki).  Much to the people’s delight (...and his), Uncle Uba reveled in an Emmy winning dancing performance.  If the ABC reality TV show Dancing with the Stars was around back then, he could have played either winning role of celebrity or professional dancer.  Come to think of it, I hear the rhythmic pitter patter of his feet now dancing with the heavenly stars.

Lastly, in a year that ultimately turned out to be my Dad’s last on earth, Uncle Uba and Aunt Kalaria shared the merry and memorable occasion of my parents’ 40th anniversary at the University Club in Pittsburgh with us.  During the roller coaster trip down memory lane Uncle Uba brought down the house when he stubbornly insisted on singing INVICTUS what he then called the ODIM FAMILY poem.  Belting out from memory, one stanza after the next, the Victorian poem INVICTUS by W.E. Henley was transformed into the ODIM fight song.

“Out of the night that covers meeeee,”

“Black as the pit from pole to pole...”

Even the dogs in the pound were howling on this special occasion.

Uncle Uba led a remarkable life marked by generosity and grace.  He was truly --  a man for all seasons, a worldly man ... a man of the people.  When I arrived in this historic city of Atlanta yesterday evening, I was reminded that Martin Luther King once said: “the quality, not the quantity, of one’s life is what’s important”.  Amazingly, Uncle Uba enjoyed both.

And I thank whatever Gods may be for his unconquerable soul.

            *************************

TRIBUTE TO A GREAT  PAPA                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Your Death is not untimely, but inevitable end of all mortals.  84years is a life well spent. We are grateful to Almighty God for the special grace and privilege given you to serve and to father us.  You left an indelible mark to so  many families whose home you touched with your fatherly advice and benevolence.  You were a father to so many oppressed families and widows whom you silently carried their burden and your wise counsel soothed their soul .  Your service to humanity  was unequaled.  The family of Obasi Brothers is still a mystry and challenge  to so many homes.   You and your late brother Chief Ina E. Obasi exhibited true brotherly Love ,  layed  a foundation that will carry  generation unto  generations .  Before your departure,  you raised men and women of different professions  that will wear your oversize shoes with a little or no amendment.  We miss you a lot because the vacuum  created  by your glories departure is enormous.    Those of us that had the  opportunity to work  closely with you will always uphold your good ideals to mortalise  your wonderful  works .  Papa you are a great man, a leader,  an accomplisher  and peace maker of our time.  History was made on that blessed 15th September, 2011 when you breathed the last breath  with a blessed  assurance that  you have  fulfilled your  part  and we  should  continue where you  stopped.  Remember to tell Papa Uku that I have done as we have agreed.    Rest, DOYEN OF NDE NNEM EGBICHIOKEN FAMILY, OCHI-OHA OF ABIRIBA,  A  SEASONED ROTARIAN , AND MY MENTOR.  Be assured that THE MIGHTY MEN AND WOMEN  you trained  will  forever and ever  remember your good works. Sleep well.  Adieu Great Daddy.  My wife Ihuoma, My Son Uguru, Your Namesake Uba missed your sharing and fatherly  get together.

Rtn Prince  Eme Uguru Ikpoka (PHF) & Princess Ihuoma.

Papa-nta --- Little Father, Biggest Father

Thanks For The Memories

By Ndenyi Nena Uche

I know he lived a long and blessed life, but still Papa’s passing is a huge loss and feels me with sadness and regrets. His death indeed marks the end of an era.

I was looking forward to a time when I could sit at his feet and listen to his many enchanting stories. I wanted to hear more of the stories he used to tell me about my father, especially his contributions to Abiriba. I wanted to hear about Papa-nta’s own contributions to Abiriba. And not just that, I wanted to hear more about his vision for Abiriba. I wanted to hear his challenge to the younger generation. I wanted to pick his brains, gather some precious pearls of wisdom and receive his blessings. Now he’s gone! What a huge loss!! Lamentations! Regrets and sadness pour forth from my soul.

How I wish we had him for just a few more years. Just a few more stories, just a few words of advice and encouragement.  But alas, the Lord giveth and the Lord taketh---in his own time. I fervently hope someone taped some of his words.

Papa -nta was a repository of knowledge about many things Abiriba. He knew our customs and traditions very well, our history and our challenges. He knew a lot about every family. As the longest living member of my father’s generation he stepped in to play the fatherly role to the families of his friends as they passed away. He played a key role in the funerals of our fathers and helped many families transition to life without their fathers.

Even before my father passed away Papa-nta was involved in our lives. Long before that, he was there.  I have heard this story many times from my mother: “Kalaria and I were good friends.  We got married the same time. She had Ekeagbara-nta, but it wasn’t until two years later that you came along.”

During the civil war we spent many days at the Obasi compound because my parents believed their compound which was surrounded by thick foliage provided better cover from enemy planes. I have fond memories of those times we spent with the Obasi children who were closer to my age. Even after the civil war there were times we strolled through the village at night with nary a thought about safety. Such innocence. We always had good, clean fun—free of drugs, booze and of the other shenanigans that  feature in the lives of today’s teenagers.

I tell people the happiest years of my life, were ironically, during the war, and of course Papa-nta, Papa -ukwu, Mma -ukwu, Mma- nta, Effiom-ukwu and the rest of the Obasi clan feature prominently in my memories of those years.

My aunty, Ugo, first drew my attention to the poignant element in the Obasi family picture that appeared in the LA convention brochure. She said she gazed at the picture (must be a cherished family heirloom now) for a long time and reflected on the bitter-sweet memories it evoked.  Ekeagbara-ukwu (Ricky), papa-ukwu, mma-ukwu, had already passed on by the LA convention time, and now Papa-nta has joined them. ( I hope we all preserve such vintage photographs that depict Abiriba people, families, traditions and customs, and life in general in Abiriba).

That photo in the brochure indeed conjures many memories. The Obasi household was always filled with love, laughter and people--- coming and going.  I remember Effiom-ukwu wise-cracking with her father and we all laughing along. I remember Mma-ukwu or Aunty Tai’s always smiling face and her passionate pleas for unity in Abiriba. We say she died of a broken heart because she could not bear the discord that was tearing Abiriba apart at some point. I see young Ukaku---originally popularly known as Mgboji ----in the picture too. He, as three-term president of ACIU-NA would later help restore the unity in Abiriba that his mother pined for. And there’s aunty Kalaria who was also always laughing and teasing everybody —even Papa’s friends. Papa-nta just let her be herself.

The elder Obasi brothers set examples for other men by the way they treated their wives with respect and allowed them to enroll in universities and earn their degrees at the same time. The two wives did everything together---thereby also setting examples for other families.

The Obasi Brothers’ beautifully blended family is indeed a unique and blessed family. Looking back I marvel at how the two brothers were able to build one family out of two families, one thriving business, one destiny.

 I wish I could have had asked them, How did you do it? Mma-nta is the only one of the “awesome foursome”---  two pairs of parents ---left now, so I guess I can still glean some insights from her.

The Obasi family is indeed worthy of study by —ordinary folks, family therapists, theologians and others who are constantly trying to figure out how to help create functional and happy families.

If there had been a reality TV show based on this family it would have been a hit. But we didn’t have TV, we didn’t have the Obasi Family Reality-TV show, but we experienced in real life, and in real-time, their family life ---from the front row seats--and for that I and many others are most grateful.

I am thankful that I got to see Papa-nta again at the L.A convention but sad that I did not get the usual exuberant embrace. He struggled to remember who I was and that broke my heart. You know an era is indeed ending when there are fewer and fewer people in Abiriba who knew you from childhood –or even before you were an idea---and can give you the special Abiriba over-the-top acknowledgment or welcome. A truly heart-warming  welcome accompanied by itu afa, hugs and ego –stroking compliments. Lamentations! Who else is there to add beke to my name ---  as in Ndy-beke?

Papa-nta must have been surprised at the commotion he set off when he walked into the L.A convention room. The animated discussion that is the hallmark of Abririba meetings ground to a halt when he walked into the room. Looking back now, we are all the more pleased that Eme Uche Eme, the ACIU-NA chairman then, halted discussions so we could properly acknowledge Papa’s entrance. Good thing Papa got that spontaneous show of love and affection only a few months before he exited this earth. I am pleased that I captured some of that with my video camera.

When I look back I also marvel that I and my sisters were able to develop such a deep and healthy platonic relationship with the Obasi boys. Papa -nta told me that the parents on both sides later wondered why we, the children never thought of marrying one another and why the parents never tried to encourage that. His conclusion?  The two families had become so close that we started to think of one another as relatives.

He did try to make up for that lapse by taking on the role of matchmaker for me long after the Obasis  I grew up with were all taken. Thanks for your effort papa. Now that he is gone that makes me feel even more like I was special to him.

Yes, indeed, I like to think that I was his favorite among his extended clan, but I know that many would leap to their feet to challenge that assertion because they too probably thought they were his favorite.  Papa indeed had the gift of making everyone, every family, feel special. That is why he was so dearly beloved by all.

Papa-nta was accessible to all. He did not make you feel your father has to be high maka maka for him to include you in his circle of love and attention. You did not have to be moneyed up and high-achieving for him to pay attention to you. Also, younger folks could talk to him as if there were adults. I was able to discuss sticky issues with him without intimidation. He could correct, rebuke, exhort and encourage people outside his immediate family like few fathers could ----and you will know he did it all out of love and concern.

Many will understand what I mean when I say it was always a delightful surprise to get a call and hear someone say something like: Uncle Uba (or ete Obasi) is in town and he wants to see you NOW. I got such a call in Boston twice and hurried over to spend some time with him and others he played father to.

He was Papa-nta, by age, but he was indeed the Biggest Father, because he had a very big heart and extended his love and attention to all. His death is indeed a huge loss to the Obasi family, many other families and to Abiriba. There is hole in our hearts that only he could fill.

I want  Effiom-nta, the apple of his eyes, who was not yet born during the civil war, to know the role her dad played in our lives during those years and to know that her father was indeed an Abiriba treasure.

Thank you papa for your love and concern for me, the Uche family and the Abiriba community. Thanks for the memories. Thanks for your legacy and we will do all we can to perpetuate that legacy by building loving extended families and serving the Abiriba community as selflessly and enthusiastically  as you did.

Being a missionary, I am exceedingly happy that Papa accepted Jesus Christ as his personal saviour. In the end that is all that matters. I hope we all have done the same so we will all be present at the ultimate –most glorious and most joyous ---Abiriba reunion/convention. Location?  Heaven.  Hosts? Heavenly hosts. No need then to pay dues, or struggle to buy a plane ticket or buy a befitting fashion ensemble.  The only requirement would be that we be clothed with the righteousness of Jesus Christ ---having acquired  a true understanding of what that means by reading the Bible frequently.

Adieu Papa. We all say: Rest in perfect peace knowing that your love and legacy live on. Thanks again for the memories.

TO MY BELOVED FATHER

Daddy, God saw that you were getting tired and a cure was not to be, so he put his arms around you and whispered, “Come With Me”.

With tearful eyes, in silence, I saw you fade away. Although I loved you deeply, I could not make you stay.

A Golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands laid to rest. God broke my heart to prove to me, He only takes the best. You stood by me to cut my 40th Birthday cake and then handed me this heavy hearted gift that surely will last me a lifetime.

Patiently you waited for me to arrive to see you, you celebrated with me, gave your instructions as usual and said here I stop, Carry-on without me Son. An example of still putting other people first before your humble self even at your last days.

A man of the people walked on, A giver, A helper, A listener, A man full of compassion, Forgiveness, Wisdom, PEACE & LOVE. A man that thought me to be Humble, Honest, Hard Working & Discipline drifted away in my arms and with my eyes filled with tears, I kept calling you back but He that created you wanted you more as He paid no attention to my cries. How cold I get at night by the thoughts of you, but I know and assured by the Almighty that ‘It is Well’. How Much I love and Miss you each day. How much I relive the events of that faithful bright September Morning. How much I ask God each day for strength to carry on without you and your daily “Awaeke imaghu” calls and followed by instructions on what and what not to do with updates.

A selfless man, who gave so much and yet received so little back but blessings from God. A man that shared his earthly and worldly possessions with anyone that needs his helping hand without bias, disregarding who you are but concentrated on what you can become. No wonder, you trained so many people so as to have positive changes to peoples’ lives and homes.

Life is a tapestry of good days and difficult days, with good days pre-dominating. During the good days, we are tempted to take our blessings for granted, you are my blessings and thank God I did not take you for granted as We shared a lot of the Good Days together.

Your Life has been a Sermon, the words you spoke had impact on so many but not nearly as much impact as the life you choose to live. You were proud to deliver your message fearlessly. Your life serves as a powerful example of decency and morality putting LOVE as the first essential for a Happy Home.

I believe the Heavenly father never takes away anything from the Children unless he means to give them something better; I wonder what God has in stock for us that could be better than YOU.

“the roots grow deep when the winds are strong” and we shall progress through STRENGTH not Weakness as Lighthouses blow no horns; they only shine.

Love you always and your memories and words of wisdom shall remain with me Like a Jinny in a Bottle, Never to be freed.

Sleep well, Dad, God Loves you more and your Foot Prints in the Sand has marked the way forward for many and generations to come. How difficult for me to say Goodbye. I MISS YOU IMMENSELY, I LOVE YOU DEEPLY.

Yours Awaeke

Ina U.Obasi, MIEE.

TRIBUTE TO A MASTER, FRIEND AND ROLE MODEL:

CHIEF UBA EKEAGBARA OBASI

Borrowing from, and transliterating a popular Igbo praise worship chorus, ‘if I begin recounting all of Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi’s good deeds, the night will fall and the day will break and I won’t be done yet!  Therefore, I present only a sketch.

For me it all began in the mid-40s when we were growing up in Port Harcourt. My eldest brother, Okali Ukiwo Okali (Senior), of blessed memory, had introduced his friend, Uba (as he then was), to the family.  Soon, virtually the whole family was drawn into Chief Uba’s circle but, notably,  Senior was attached to Uba, another elder brother of mine, Isaiah, also of blessed memory, was attached to Ole Ukuku and I was a pet to Ogwo Eme. All three, Uba, Ole and Ogwo, sadly all now of blessed memory, were at that time wards of Ete Nkungwu operating from his Hospital Road shop. The activity that lined us up most clearly in our pairs was the regular visit to the cinema house, Rex, Roxy or later Rio. Even at that time, the now legendary generosity of   Chief Uba, was evident as he most times not only paid the ticket fares for all, for entry into the cinema house, but  generously bought candies, biscuits and drinks for us all.

 At the beginning, I was still in primary school, at Banham Memorial Methodist School   along Aggrey Road, which happened to be a short distance from the Victoria Street residence of  Ete Robert Nkata, where Uba lived then.  Elder Anya Kalu, who lived there at the same time, can bear this out. Uba’s single room  apartment in Victoria Street was our frequent port of call as he always left open a cup-board fully stocked with provisions for us boys to help ourselves. The star attraction in that cup-board used to be the  beverage,  Horlicks – a white powder that was far more delicious than the brown Ovaltine or Chocolate. We sneaked in frequently and helped ourselves generously to this victual without reprimand from Uba. In any case he always restocked the cupboard and never barred us from entering the room!

When I left to secondary school and only returned to Port Harcourt on holidays, the locations changed, but the relationship intensified. Our parents had moved from Umuahia to Port Harcourt and lived in 18 Hospital Road, just across the street from Ete Nkugwu’s shop. So, I and my brothers, also back on holidays  from secondary school, would spend virtually the whole day in Ete Nkungwu’s shop, with Uba and his colleagues in that shop spoiling us with groundnuts, oranges and whatever the hawkers cared to offer.  Ever so often, in the evenings, the spoiling continued to the cinema house! At the week-ends, particularly on Sundays, virtually all of Ete Nkungwu’s wards and some friends including us, would pile into Ete Nkungwu’s  motor- bus transport, plying between Port Harcourt and Diobu, regaling the passengers and ourselves, with church songs and choruses through the many trips that were made in the day.  I am certain that at least part of Chief Uba’s generosity was learned from his master, Ete Nkungwu, who joined in petting us as we frequented his shop. It was revealed to us by Chief Uba that on many occasions, Ete Nkungwu, waived the payment from our father for the ‘purchase’ of fabrics (white and kakhi drills) for making outfits for my brothers and me. On top of this, Ete Nkungwu, and his wards, especially Uba, generously gave us ‘pocket money’ when returning to school after the holidays.

By the early 50s when the men began to be separated from the boys, there was less of cinema-going and now more of ballroom dancing. Chief Uba and his colleagues would use the evenings more for learning the complex, syncopated ballroom dance steps than for going to cinema, and we boys were left to scale the walls to peep through the wooden louvres of the windows of Roxy Hall, which was just one house away from 18 Hospital Road, to watch Uba and his dance colleagues performing the mesmerizing dance steps. Peeping through the windows was always a big treat, competed for by the boys, especially on special dance nights when the men appeared in their white tuxedo jackets and bow-ties, with the ladies resplendent in flowing gowns.  With this, much of growing up in Port Harcourt from the mid-40s to the mid-50s revolved around the relationship with Chief Uba.  It is not surprising that at the end of secondary schooling in 1955 I gravitated again to Port Harcourt, this time more closely attached to Chief Uba. I had taken up an internship at the Tropical Testing Establishment (TTE) in Port Harcourt, which was a colonial research outfit, engendered by the Second World War, for studying the durability of construction materials, mostly wood, against attack by biological agents. Our assignment then was to collect data on termite attacks on furniture in the European quarters of Port Harcourt, and data on teredo worm attacks of underwater wooden posts in the harbours. Chief Uba, then not yet married, accommodated me AND LET ME SHARE THE SAME BED WITH HIM, in his apartment at 15 Harbour Road.

His brotherly care and concern for me went beyond providing hospitality at 15 Harbour Road. He monitored my progress through the many examinations and searches for career advancement. It was customary for secondary school leavers to take the entrance examination to the University College Ibadan, the only university in the country at that time, examinations to the Pharmacy School in Yaba and the Civil Service examination for placement in the public service. In addition, students from my school also went to Lagos for the Federal Scholarship interview. Monitoring my progress, Chief Uba had learnt from private sources that I was not successful at the Federal Scholarship interview. To him this ruled out going to the university, and made a career in Pharmacy very obvious and appealing, as students in the Pharmacy programme were also paid as employees while studying. Besides, there were shining examples of Abiriba men who had gone through the Yaba Pharmacy School and were excelling in their careers – Messrs Anya Ebitu Ukiwe, Mang Obasi and Kalu Ukoha. Chief Uba could not come to terms with my being unable to follow the same path. I had concealed from him the fact that I was successful in the examination also to the Pharmacy school, because I wanted to put all effort into getting sponsorship to Ibadan University.  By September, 1955, when it was clear that no sponsorship was forthcoming to take me to Ibadan, Chief Uba saw me off to the Pharmacy School in Yaba. By Divine providence, the story of which will be told at another time and place, I later switched from the Pharmacy School, Yaba to Ibadan University under sponsorship by the Methodist College, Uzuakoli.   I tell this story to illustrate how patient and understanding Chief Uba was. Many a benefactor might have shown me the way out for my apparent inability to secure a placement and move early to the Pharmacy School.

Throughout my career as an undergraduate at Ibadan, even after he became married, Chief Uba’s home remained my home to return to during vacations. This continued to be so even after I graduated, returned from graduate studies overseas and became married too.  The stamp of his being my master was, however,  sealed when during my ‘Igwa Mang’ ceremony he inducted me into the Emenonye Trading House, which happened also to have been my father’s house. Chief Uba, literally took me by hand t0 perform all the necessary formalities to cover – Igba Nnunnu, Izu Egbe, Ilu Nwami Amuzu Bende  and so on. As my master, Chief Uba was always readily at hand to guide and provide support to me even in my adult life.  Barely two years ago, he accompanied me from Aba to Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, to receive an honorary degree. This was at the peak of the kidnapping scare in Aba.  He was at hand, generously donating cement and arranging for its delivery through Mr Agwu Okeke Uche, in the 80s, towards the construction of my house in Abiriba. He unhesitatingly guided me through an assignment I had undertaken to raise funds towards the publication of a book on the late Dr. P. O. Mba, the famed  Abiriba professor who, despite his hearing impairment, had gained his Ph. D.  and concluded a successful career as a don at the University of Ibadan.  Chief Uba, again literally took me by hand, called on and persuaded many Abiriba business men to donate to that cause.

Needless to say that the personal relationships sketched above spread to cover the entire enlarged families of Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi  and the Okali family, to the extent that Chief Uba could entrust the care of his child to my late mother, Madam Alice Okali, while his wife was out completing her educational training, or to the extent that my home in Ibadan was readily accepted by his family as a surrogate home during their training in Ibadan. I have not touched on the close relationship between Chief Obasi and my late brother, Senior, even as both sojourned in the US in their later days. Nor have I dwelt on Chief Uba’s total care and concern for the welfare of the Okali family. Many times he openly regretted to us that if we had not been so dispersed, his dream was to assist the Okali family to develop an estate befitting the close family.

Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi’s good nature, generosity and philanthropy are recounted in other places in these tributes.   I conclude this sketch by indicating why I consider him not only as a master, but also a role model. Reference above to what he repeatedly said he wished for the Okali family reflects his own  exemplary life of living together with his brother, with both families, literally under the same roof throughout life.  I do not know of any other Abiriba family where such social engineering, of two siblings, together with their families now running into three generations, living through life under the same roof, has been accomplished.  Especially for this, but more generally for many other attributes, the life and times of  Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi deserve full academic study, to identify and learn the mechanisms by which such peaceful coexistence has been accomplished. The least that can be done in respecting this legacy is to maintain it.

While we pray for the peaceful repose of the soul of this very great man, Hon. Rtn. Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi, my Master, Friend and Role Model , we also pray that the Almighty Himself will comfort and give the family the fortitude to contain the loss, and that HE will guide the remaining matriarch of the dynasty, Dame Kalaria Uba Obasi (Mama Nta) to maintain the priceless legacy of keeping the families peacefully together.

David Okali

Professor Emeritus

University of Ibadan

TRIBUTE BY AGBAI JACKSON

Wow,

It seemed like just the other day I wore You your shoes and was preparing you for your morning walk but now; your gone. It hurts to say it but its a fact we will all have to deal with.

You were always there for me raising me up in your house, teaching me moral lessons that have helped make me a better person and how can I ever forget the tasking times when i fell down, and lost all hope but you always urged me to get back up an prove a point.

You were a true icon and you always tried to help everyone who needed help from you. A man who cared so dearly about his people, a good father, a loving husband, caring brother and truly the best grandfather.

The examples you showed us as a great leader will always continue to guide us and your legacy will never be forgotten, we all love you but our heavenly father loves you more, Adieu  Papa and sleep well.

Your Grandson

Agbai Jackson

ORJI UZOR KALU

191A, Adeleke Adedoyin Street, Victoria Island, Lagos

okalu@orjikalu.com

November 25, 2011

Prince E.U. Obasi,

Abiriba.

 A GREAT MAN HAS JOINED THE SAINTS TRIUMPHANT

I received the news of the death of your father, Hon. Rtn. Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi, who joined his ancestors in September this year. Ordinarily, we should be celebrating the passage into heavenly paradise of this iconic personality, whose life has had colossal influence on many of those he left behind to mourn him. He was an achiever, a disciplinarian and an urbane community leader.

Our grief is not just because Pa Obasi has gone the way of all mortals, but for the simple fact that we would miss his sagacious admonitions and wisecracks. Nevertheless, we take consolation in the exceptional life of hard work, truth, thoroughness, and helpfulness he led, and for which he will forever be remembered. The exit of your father was something beyond our human capability, and this is why we have entrusted everything into the hands of the Creator, in whose consoling bosom he has found perpetual rest.

I urge you and your relations not to mourn like those who have no hope. Our hope is reignited by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Today, Christ’s life has become a benchmark for our own lives.

On behalf of myself, my family and relations, I convey our deepest condolences to you and your family on this seemingly irreparable loss, while praying God to console all of us affected one way or another. 

ORJI UZOR KALU

TRIBUTE TO OUR CHAIRMAN

We thank the Lord Almighty for the life of our Chairman Chief Uba E. Obasi, a life well lived, a life full of emulation and legacies of kindness to humanity.

Chief, you fought a good fight, you have finished the race and kept the candle burning for others to see.

Your contribution to the development of Alcon Nigeria Limited will never be forgotten.

Chief, to everything there is a season and time to every purpose under the heaven.  Eccl. 3:1

Adieu Chief, Adieu Our Chairman

Signed:    MANAGEMENT 

         (ALCON NIGERIA LTD)

TRIBUTE

Death they say is a necessary end and will come when it will;

And the living should take this to heart.

For me, this is a monumental loss; a massive exit

For today I bid farewell to a father and icon.

Little wonder Jim Reeves, a famous songwriter wrote:

“This life is not my own, I am just passing through”

But I am so proud to say that Papa did not just pass through,

He left a legacy and indeed his footprints in the sands of time.

Papa and my father were not just like brothers,

They shared a special bond; my father naming his last son after Papa.

This valued relationship transcended to myself and Ina, who was my best man at my wedding.

And it remains my utmost desire that our sons come to cherish this relationship generations over.

In 1985 when my father died, my siblings and I were still of tender ages.

My mother was left confused, she despaired, having lost all hopes;

And most challenging was that my mother had five of us to cater for.

It was Papa who came to our aid.

Practically stepping into my father’s shoes, Papa established my mother in her line of business and supported the family all the way.

Dare I say that Papa’s love for us was unparalleled. It was such that only a father could show.

When I found the woman I wanted to marry in 2005, Papa proudly led the delegation from Abiriba to Enugu-ukwu.

This honour (to me) was doubled when Papa again led the delegation of Abiriba sons and daughters from Aba to Abuja for my church wedding.

Papa was a man I admired and learnt so much from.

He was an achiever, a fulfilled man and a man greatly favoured by God.

Ochioha! Your works speak volumes and we shall never forget all you were and what you stood for.

Move on, your dear friend and brother awaits you at the other side with gratitude and approbation,

But most importantly, your Maker beckons you to His bosom.

Adieu Papa! Till we meet to part no more.

Ikechi Patrick Anya.

      Tribute to my Sweet Daddy

“Daddy’m, Nwoke oma, nwoke obi oma, nwoke di ike, okenmadu, oke di ikom, Onye Chi nyelu Ugo, Onye Chi goziri agozi, Onye Chukwu tele nmanu, Onye isi Uke Okezie, Ninety nine, Ochi Oha 1, UBA……

I would go on and on, and Dad would start to chuckle….and laugh…. and then he’d say   “Effy eh eh……what do you want?”

 I’d laugh out loud and respond, “Nothing, Daddy”.

Daddy would say “Iya ‘m Effiom! Adannaya, Nwandindi, Ojeubiabali, Ada Okezie, Nwamioma, Effy girl…… ”.

That was Dad. Smart, open and simple.

He taught me that a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches. Proverbs 22v1. He was very wealthy but remained simple. He was just as comfortable wearing Alcon’s plastic black and red souvenir watch, as he was wearing a Rolex. His friends included everybody; the rich, the poor, the young and the old. He remained simple and generous, even when extremely provoked.

He taught me to always be grateful. He was grateful he survived the hardship of a difficult childhood. He remained grateful to all who helped him, particularly those who played major roles in his life. He shared a story about when he was 3 years old, about 1930; he went to greet his name sake, who had just returned to Abiriba from ‘uzu’. His name sake saw him naked and gave him his shirt. Dad said he didn’t care that the sleeves were much longer than his little arms, or that the shirt touched the floor. It was his very first item of clothing and he was very excited. He ran all the way to his mother’s house, tripping and falling several times, until he got to her. Years later, he made sure he took good care of his name sake. During his name sakes burial, he donated a cow to honor him, in addition to the traditional chicken name sakes are obligated to bring.  In his last days, he always expressed his gratitude to my mum, kalaria, for taking such good care of him. He frequently said to me “kele kalaria, onaha agbali”. He never took her for granted.                        

He taught me how to dance. I was told that as a toddler, Dad would sing and clap ‘effiom Uba, Uba re re re re Uba’ and I would wriggle my napkin padded hips! I remember as a little girl, Dad would play Jim Reeves, pick up the cushions of the orange sofa in the sitting room upstairs in Aba, and waltz around. Then he’d hold my hands and show me the steps. Needless to say, I stepped on his toes quite a few times! He would laugh and say, ‘effiom, you need to go to a dancing school’. He was very patient with me.

He taught me how to tell and enjoy a good story. Oh! His laughter! Dad would laugh until tears rolled out of his eyes. Then he’d exclaim “chei! Effiom, ibia kwa”. It gave me so much joy just to hear him laugh.  After I got married, I kept going back to Dad’s house, especially during the holidays in Abiriba, when everybody would come home and we would all ‘jist’ till day break! Dad thoroughly enjoyed those sessions.                                             

Above all, Dad taught me love. He loved me unconditionally. Daddy wanted the best for me. I never had cause to doubt him. He encouraged me to excel in my studies and cheered me on every step of the way. I remember getting a rather cute, portable typewriter for earning the Federal Government scholarship for my secondary education; and a summer holiday for As in WASC. His joy and delight at my little successes made me want to succeed even more.  He gave me all that I ever needed and more.

Years later, when I came across the passage in Matt 7v9-11, that talks about us being evil, know how to give good gifts to our children, how much more would our heavenly father give good gifts to us his children;  it just blew my mind. The love Dad had for me helped me appreciate how immense the love of our heavenly father must be.

Daddy, I thank you for sweet memories, I thank God for the life you lived, and I thank God for the privilege of having you as a father. I miss you and will always love you. Adieu, Sweet Daddy.

Effiem Jackson Abbah (nee Uba Obasi)

‘When men on earth, live their lives, touching so many other lives, they cannot, but, generally end up, guaranteeing themselves a stake in eternity.’ This quotation clearly defines my Dad, and how he sought to live his life while here, and that is why he touched, not just me, my siblings, and the larger Obasi Family, but also, a whole generation of men and women, that came in contact with him.

I know for sure, that many people would remember one, or a particular thing, about my Dad, that concerned them closely; but for me, I remember my Dad mostly for his general attitude towards those things that are seen to outlive us, and which often, and mostly, concern and   mattered most to him. He always had his eyes on history, and lived to fulfill same.                                                      

My Dad influenced my thoughts pattern; my attitude and my views about issues, many of which I would have easily considered as unimportant. In all arguments, he would always maintain that no one can actually win in a zero-sum game, for on each side of an issue, lies some form of truth.

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This made him the consummate man of peace and equity at all times.

I know that the greatest battles, fought by my Dad, were with himself. He was always pre-occupied with the struggles, to be better; and his hopes, that life, in all its vagaries, might at the end, treat each one of us with some dignity. Speaking of dignity!, my dad was a very dignified man, whose whole essence captured what one might call the ‘PERFECT GENTLEMAN’.                                                            

Just losing my Dad when we did, especially, smacks of a dignified living and exit. He had struggled for so long with his illness,that we all could not but share the pain, and he bowed out quietly and peacefully, without adding further pressure to the family. What a truly dignified departure!

In writing this tribute for dad, I am very much in anguish, and I find myself talking to myself, and reliving the moments we shared together. I am just wishing that I might in these lines, at the very least, capture a bit of his essence and what he truly represented to all of us, and to me in particular.                                                 

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My Dad,in his dignity, chose to serve every person that came to him, starting from his family. In so doing, he sought to better understand what drove each and every one of us. My father was a very dedicated man in every commitment he made, and he found fulfillment in seeing things accomplished. I can recall how happy our little successes in life, actually made him glow with pride.

In the long run, we are all creatures of destiny. My father had his, lived it and was considered a successful man by all standards. He would greatly be missed. We mourn him with utmost humility for a life well spent. Yet, though painful,  we rejoice in the fact that he lived well, died aged and would for a long time, be remembered for what he lived for and for what he sought to accomplish in his very eventful life.

Ochi Oha of Abiriba Kingdom!, Nwoke Obioma, a man of peace – you will also go in peace, and may you remain evergreen on our memories.

Adieu Papa!

Your Son,

Andy Ndukwo Uba Obasi

TRIBUTE TO A MOST GRACIOUS IN-LAW

As we come of age, we are confronted with the realization of the inevitability and finality of death. This realization is in most cases rendered abstract by the fact that each news of death will be for somebody distant and far away. Distant, not because of issues of filial affinity, but because even when they are consanguine, such persons are not truly close to us in our spirit. The death of Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi, my uncle and father-in-law is in simple language, devastating.

 I call him my uncle because chief Uba’s father, Ekeagbara is my grandmother’s  father’s  younger  brother, from the same mother. Chief  Uba  is accordingly my grandmother’s first cousin, while my wife, Effiem, and my mother are second cousins. Though the Obasi brothers have been a house hold name in Abiriba since the 1970s, the face I had been more familiar with was Chief Ina Obasi, the elder brother.  His characteristic beards stood him out as he drove past my uncle’s (Chief Imo Egwuronu) house in Umungasi Aba to and from work. It was usual for me to see him very regularly, each time I was on vacation during my university days. I recollect sighting Chief Uba for the first time in my life around 1989 during a Christmas wedding at the Presbyterian Church, Amaogudu parish. The next time I had contact with him was when I came with my people to ask his daughter’s hand in marriage. He accepted me wholeheartedly as a member of his family, after receiving certain assurances.

Chief Uba was electrifying, charmful and cherubic in his relationship with me and others. His laughter came directly from his heart. He had patience in abundance. He eschewed pettiness. He easily forgave people and seldom remembered the past, except when relishing the history and successes of Abiriba people. He was very courageous. In his presence, always will he make you feel welcomed and at ease. For me, this part of him was so enchanting, having grown up in an environment where a father figure represented flogging and scolding. To demonstrate his free spirit , a few  years ago he called his children  and myself, showed us a list of people who where indebted to him, including a bounced cheque for $7 million  given to him by a German business partner  who had defrauded him. He destroyed every documented evidence in our presence, and said nobody claiming through him, should demand those debts, even after he is gone.

A few years ago, when I was in very low spirit because despite what I felt was a generous disposition on my part, a lot of my family members and friends felt I owed them an endless debt that will inure in perpetuity. These same people said very unsavoury and unkind things behind my back. To the first issue, Chief Uba responded that he had observed me over a period of time, and came to the conclusion that like himself to his family, I am also a slave to my family and will remain so, like himself, till the end of time. He said there wasn’t much I could do to change the situation. On the second issue, he enumerated how many people he had helped in their businesses and those he trained in primary, secondary and university, including in some cases grand children. He said I will be surprised about what some of them say about him, behind his back, but he never feels bad or has regrets. He said God does not forget, and that he has been surviving on the benevolence of people he never assisted in any form, but whom God had touched their hearts to assist him. To Chief Uba, it is God that makes recompense.

To demonstrate his humanity, during my darkest days in 2000, as a result of a crisis foisted on me, and for which I had done everything humanly possible to avoid to no avail, he not only came in from Aba to find out from me, what the matter was. At that time, the level of propaganda and hubris against me was so overwhelming that, even biological affinity had been put to flight, and pepper soup joint trials and convictions had taken full ascendancy. He humbled himself and went to Cotonou to hear from the other side. When he came back he was full of happiness and told me everything had been resolved and that I had an option of continuing to stay on the Job, or leave and be paid my entitlements. I told him his optimism was not supported by the facts and history. He persuaded me to go along with him, that there was no way the discussions he held in Cotonou will be a ruse. As I knew already, I fulfilled my part of the agreement. The other party did not and I was not paid a kobo, yet I was still being prosecuted at the Igbosere magistrate court. In July 2000, despite his great disappointment at the turn of events, which I had predicted, Chief Uba, my great father-in-law, was persuaded to go to the same people who could not honour their words to him, and plead they stop prosecuting me. When he muted the idea to me, I declined immediately, and told him the idea was only to ridicule him further, and massage somebody’s ego, and assured him the case in court lacked merit and nothing will happen to me. He convinced me that we should go, not because he believed anything will come out of it, but because he believed there was still a God in Heaven who sees all our actions. On the appointed day, we went: Chief Uba, Chief Agbai Abbah, Chief Imo Egwuronu, Chief Nwojo Uguru and Ete Igara. We were kept near the gate house for over two hours. Rain started falling on these elderly men and I told Chief Uba I could not bear the humiliation any longer. He told me not to bother, that we should continue to wait. Hours later we were ushered into the parlour and waited another two hours, making a total of 4 hours in a community that prides itself to have the greatest respect for elders. When eventually the meeting commenced, Chief Uba neither showed nor, expressed anger or pain. When the matter continued and abated only in 2005, after I was discharged and acquitted on a no case submission, and I expressed my pain on the obvious time we had wasted in July 2000, despite my resistance to massage somebody’s ego, he asked me whether God has not compensated for those transgressions.

On his courage, during what I call the darkest days in Abiriba history, between 2007 and 2008,when young men openly carried guns, seeking for whom to kidnap or kill,  and which compelled people to stop passing the night in Abiriba, Chief Uba will go to Abiriba, open his gates, and spend two or three weeks in the village. Even when his good friend had been kidnapped and made to pay =N=5 Million ransom, he will not stop going home. On one occasion, he was going out with his driver and a few youths came out openly to block his car, brandishing guns. He yelled at them and instantly, they ran away.

Even when it was obvious his health was failing him. On three occasions he followed the Elders forum to visit the A.I.G Zone 9, to impress on him to restore law and order in Abiriba. On each of those days, he was ready for the journey from Aba to Umuahia by 9am. I did marvel at such commitment to community.

He once told me that you needed to exert six times the effort you exerted to create wealth, to keep and sustain wealth.

To Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi P.H.F, a man who impacted his environment so positively, in work, kindness, business, moral rectitude, openness, frankness, courage, large heartedness, teambuilding and other qualities too numerous to mention, I thank God for letting humanity have you for almost 84 years on earth. I refuse to join those mourning you; I join those celebrating a graceful and worthy life.

Sleep well Sir!

JACKSON AGBAI ABBAH.

A TRIBUTE TO MY FATHER-IN-LAW.

For death is but a passing phase of Life;

A change of dress, a disrobing;

A birth into the unborn again;

A commencing where we ended;

A starting where we stopped to rest;

A crossroad of Eternity;

A giving up of something, to possess all things.

The end of the unreal, the beginning of the real.

EDWIN LEIBFREED, "The Song of the Soul"

I still recall that Thursday morning on the 15th of September as I walked through the door and heard Nma’s voice on the first scream of “Jesus”. I rushed to your room to begin a journey of the last thing we expected. As I called on Ina and picked up the phone to dial 911, I cried and prayed you will stay on. Yes you stayed on but just for a few minutes. Papa was this meaning of the rest you told Nma. My joy is you died a peaceful death. You were strong to the last day, still taking your daily walks and ready to move your feet to the tune of “Ayakata”.

Your last few years were a learning ground for me that I may never have gotten in decades without the experience. I sure needed it. Thank you. You gave it all out, love, support, encouragement, advice, finances etc. to family and friends and was content not even getting back. Such a rare virtue.

Uba came back the first week of your exit with his usual greeting “Ka Grandpa, Ka Grandma”!  expecting you to be in the front seat waiting for him, he misses you, he said he wants you to be buried at our backyard so he can visit you whenever he wished. Tough one!!! My darling husband still wants to hear you call him Awaeke! Tougher one!!! I miss you calling me “Adannaya”. You confirmed my blessings before everyone knew and to think you left before you can carry them. Hmmmmm Toughest one!!!!

Of all the events which constitute a person's biography, there is scarcely one ... to which the world so easily reconciles itself as to his death…… NATHANIEL HAWTHORNE, The House of the Seven Gables

We thank God for a life well spent and a peaceful exit to Glory for a peace loving man and notable rare gem like you.

Adieu Papa. Rest in Perfect Peace in Our Lord’s Bosom.

Love,

Your Daughter-In-Law

“Adannaya”

Ifeoma Ina-Obasi

Abiriba has lost a visionary and creative genius;  immensely,  we have lost an amazing human being, a philanthropist. Those of us who have been fortunate enough to know,  stay and work with OCHI OHA 1 of Abiriba, have lost a dear friend, brother, uncle, a beloved father and an inspiring mentor. OCHI OHA leaves behind a legacy, that only he could have built, and his spirit of love, kindness, generosity will forever be missed by most of us that know him.  

PAPA NTA!!!!

OCHI OHA 1 OF ABIRIBA!!!!!! 

REST IN PERFECT PEACE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

FROM:  FESTUS AGWU NNANNA MBONU & ENTIRE FAMILY, (Ezinne, Aruodo, Nnnams, Natha Onyekachi)

THE REVERENDS SOLOMON & EBERE UMAZI FAMILY

THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF NIGERIA

FRIST ABUJA PARISH

5 BOKE CLOSE, WUSE2,

ABUJA.

CONDOLENCE

Dear Ma Elder Kalaria,

The news of the translation of our dear Papa Uba, (as we fondly know him), came to us as a rude shock. Though we were aware of his graceful aging and the consequent health challenges, yet we had kept the thought of his demise as far as our human minds can possibly do.

Papa meant so much to many, whose testimonies and tributes we humbly allow more elaborate space. But we gladly put on record that Papa and your amiable self were there for us during our childless years. His apt and insightful words of comfort and encouragement were so assuring that when the kids started coming in, we believed Papa was a prophet in his own right.

So on behalf of our children, especially our fourth and indeed last kid who we named UBAOBASI (alias Paulo), we deep mourn the passage of this great man of the people and philanthropist par excellent. We will ever remember him as his name has become part of our family.

May the good Lord grant his graceful soul eternal rest and the entire family and church the fortitude to accept his transition! Amen!!

Adieu Papa Uba

From: Solomon, Ebere, David, Daniel, Ezinne and Ubaobasi Umazi

 TRIBUTE

TO

A   RARE FRIEND & A GREAT   GENTLEMAN

Hon. Rtn. Chief UBA EKEAGBARA OBASI,(PHF)

Ochi Oha of Abiriba

 As a father, confident, mentor, counselor, business associate and best friend …… To write a tribute ….. The reality is that I cannot  explicitly express my desired opinion, however I cannot possibly and indeed not have words enough to eloquently and delicately affirm a linguistic  masterpiece I deem suitable to describe and honor the Life & Times of Hon. Rtn. Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi (PHF). 

Though, his sudden passing brought me to depths of grief, prayer and praise. I cannot but applaud from my perspective the Life & Times of Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi so nobly lived, so fully, so successfully and not be overwhelmed with a great deep sense of pride at his acclaimed lifestyle 

The sheer greatness of his life, the faith, excellence, exuberance, passion, integrity, transparency and richness of the life he lived, shows that he loved life and enjoyed it thoroughly. He inspired and blessed so many as he walked through life.

 I am forever grateful to God Almighty for his success and exemplary lifestyle, honored to have closely shared part of his life on earth, and proud of what he made of his life which makes me doubt if anyone have enjoyed a father as gentle, as great, as thoughtful , as caring, as understanding and as good as mine has been.

Now I smile at the memories of his wry and seemingly limitless humors, and wise counsel, bask in the memories of his fatherly care, encouragement and compassion. I will as most of you here present forever miss him and his zest for life. He had style. Impeccable in dressing. Unmatched in ballroom dancing. Self grooming and in speech. Good taste. Excellent business acumen. 

Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi  managed to do the simplest things with a natural flair, and charisma that made the ordinary seem special. I have now come to realization that it was just part of his natural drive for excellence and tolerance in whatever he does. 

He excelled in business, excelled in oratory, excelled in communal community development, excelled in humanity enhancement, excelled in mankind empowerment and goodwill. All done with an unpretentious and unfeigned joy. 

Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi  had a talent for reaching out to people with such genuine warmth, care and consideration as to make long standing friends out of the most aloof of strangers. He made people regardless of their age, feel special ….. In fact I realized growing up that my father was more popular with my friends, striking up warm close relationship with them ….. Completely independent of me, often turning himself into an adhoc counselor and mentor. 

To this day, I continue to enjoy tremendous goodwill from complete strangers in all sorts of places who have enjoyed his true friendship, his care and generosity of spirit.

Yes indeed my dad was certainly generous. He was generous financially as he was with his ideas and business acumen. Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi gave and gave sacrificially. I can neither count the number of ministers and gospel ministries or humanitarian organizations that have benefited from his largesse, nor count the number of acquaintances going through a rough patch he has helped, relatives, sick or less privileged unable to pay fees, friends, students and strangers to whom he played the Neighbor ( Good Samaritan) of biblical fame.

 I am rest assured that Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi would be embarrassed my recounting of stories of such help, suffice to say what a widow’s mite really is. I have seen my father giving time and time again for he gave with a generosity that sprung from his faith as a Christian. 

Nonetheless, if he was generous financially, he was even more generous with the wise counsel, knowledge and wisdom that he endlessly and tirelessly acquired and dispensed. 

My father was animated, alive, passionate and tireless in his discovering of truths, thrived in the mining of wisdom and sharing it, whether on a podium, in meetings, from the comfort of his living room, from office corridors or desk,

Chief Obasi enjoyed sharing life experiences and possessions with talent and conviction, and in blessing, deriving his pleasure as much from the pleasure of those who receive his gift as from the manner and skill in which the gift was given. 

Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi  was a true and talented merchant of international repute. In fact in the summer of 1994, I was privileged to be in a business meeting with him in Lexington, Kentucky United States of America when he admonished a prospective business partner who spoke ill of Nigeria “Please do not tell me that in a nation of over one hundred and fifty million people, you cannot find one honest man to do business with”.

It was later in a business dinner reception that cool summer evening that the mayor of Lexington gave him the key to the city of Lexington saying  “Chief Obasi with this key the doors of this great city of Lexington is wide open for you … You are welcomed here at all times”.  

As brilliant wordsmith with astute leadership qualities. He was proud of  his heritage, of his roots, of his culture, of his people at home or in the Diaspora and an avid admirer of communal living. He was ever quick to admonish those who belittle the depth and strength of love and unity in a family or community. 

Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi  has always passionately and enthusiastically sought to promote his community and country, to seek its development, pushed to see that his people stood a little taller, lived a little better than they did. 

Yes his simple yet practical faith will always be a challenge to mine for he is an encouragement to me … that I can and should love and serve God, humbly, boldly, fearlessly and with wisdom … an endearing reminder that the quality (or lack thereof) of my life will always be tied to the strength of my relationship to God.

 I will miss dad dearly indeed. He unconditionally loved his family completely and with an incomparable love. He sacrificed time, resources and energy towards our success and comfort, ensured we never lacked in any way. I laugh now when I recall because we are sent to school with more than enough provisions,  we usually come back home from school with our pocket money unspent …. For what I know now ! …. I don’t think I will make that mistake again.

 Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi taught me to strive for greater success, has confident and believed in me, there can be no greater motivation for success and that’s the bedrock for me to succeed.  

He empowered mankind, enhanced lives, created wealth for he was  a great father, a great mentor, a great leader, a great counselor and above all a great friend. 

That I will never again be able to sit in a living room with him or go for a long drive with him, chauffeur him to church,  share and trade jokes, attend various events with him, discuss anything and everything and nothing, never get into one of his infamous marathon phone calls ….. that probably I will miss more than anything else. 

The fact remains, I truly cherish the friendship and happiness I enjoyed with him. I honor and respect him for giving it so freely and fully. I am proud of his life & time achievements, strength and companionship.  

On this note in the words of one of my favorite poets: 

STILL  I  RISE

Maya Angelou

You may write me down in history,With your bitter, twisted lies,You may trod me in the very dirt

But still, like dust, I’ll rise. 

Does my sassiness upset you? Why are you beset with gloom? ‘cause I walk like I’ve got oil wells Pumping in my living room. Just like moons and like suns, With the certainty of tides, Just like hopes spring high,

Still I’ll rise.

Did you want to see me broken Bowed head and lowered eyes? Shoulders falling down like teardrops,Weakened by my soulful cries. Does my haughtiness offend you?

Don’t you take it awful hard‘cause I laugh like I’ve got gold mines Diggin’ in my own back yard You may shoot me with your words,You may cut me with your eyes,You may kill me with your hatefulness,

But still, like air, I’ll rise. 

Does my sexiness upset you? Does it come as a surpriseThat I dance like I’ve got diamonds At the meeting of my thighs? Out of the huts of history’s shame

I rise

Up from a past that’s rooted I pain

I rise

I’m a black ocean, leaping and wide,Welling and swelling I bear in the tide. Leaving behind nights of terror and fear

I rise

Into a daybreak that’s wondrously clear

I rise

Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave,I am the dream and the hope of the slave

.I rise

I rise

I rise  

Dad, Like you have always said “ God has done for me all that I have asked from him …. To give me enough resources to be able to take care of my family and dependants”  

Today, we are all witness that … “You have done your God given utmost best …….. This is a new dawn in our lives …… We love you and would forever miss you ..    

Thank you Dad !” 

Ekeagbara Uba E. Obasi & Family

Norah, Uba, Kalaria & Enyindiya

A TRIBUTE TO LATE CHIEF UBA EKEAGBARA OBASI OF PLEASANT MEMORY: THE TRAIL BLAZER GOES HOME

Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi, an aristocrat of distinction even by international standard, a leader of men, a seasoned businessman, a man of culture, a Christian of noble spirit, a philanthropist, and a man of peace has like a comet that appeared in the firmament about 84 years ago, blazing through the astral distance of intimidating skies of the universe, has completed his earthly assignment. We the mortals that are left behind by him have gathered to bestow the burial rites that accrue to him both by culture and by Christian tenets.

Chief Uba Ekeagbara, right from his early days chose the direction of the journey he wanted to undertake on earth. He did not have the benefit of early formal education as we know of it today. What he lacked, he made up with zeal in his private and night school education. As a child, he went straight into business, being an apprentice trader under the guiding and tutorial dictates of the master traders. The Abiriba community among a few other communities in the Eastern part of the country, spearheaded in the early days a culture of trade apprenticeship in the education of their young entrepreneurs. He made a success of it. But, Uba himself loved education which he did not have the luck of starting at a young age. He befriended every Abiriba man that went to school to seek education and sponsored many who were even his age mates as well as young and older ones for education. He integrated with the educated and courted the dislike of those who wanted to create a gulf between educated men on one side and illiterate traders on the other in their retrogressive venture.

Uba was the president of his Okezie Age Grade from its teenage formation to the pinnacle ripe and ceremonial age of Uche Ceremony – the Igboto Mma and still was their president until death – a feat uncommon and yet to be attempted by anybody else in this aggressive and competitive society called Abiriba. Uba had a sartorial test and flamboyance. He was ever a well dressed man, be it in European fashion of suit, shirt and ties with pocket handkerchief or in the traditional Abiriba Ubani/Umon outfit.

He was a classical dancer who pioneered a dancing school in which he was dance teacher. He had Okali U Okali, Ole Ukuku Dike and many of his contemporaries, men and women, as the energizing force. It was marvel to watch Uba dance the classical dance steps of quick-step, waltz, samba, tango and fox-trot. These were difficult dance steps even for these days. These are dance steps that some of us whose fate took to the epitome of British/European culture, like Britannia Royal Navy College Dartmouth came to learn with difficulty. Uba was iconic. You would almost wish you had K-leg as Uba had, as many would think that K-leg facilitated his agility.

He was in the fore-front of Abiriba social and developmental activities, and he remained so till death. Uba has done his duties as his creator – the Almighty God has directed him.

He has shown love to mankind. I can hear him saying to all of us, and particularly to Kalaria my sister his darling wife, and the children and the larger children of the family which embraces his nephews and nieces, Stop Crying, Love Me, But Let Me Go. The Almighty God has called him. He has answered. Let the Holy Spirit take control. On your part, we are to be of good cheer, for the good Lord has taken over.

May The Soul of Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi Rest In The Bosom Of The Lord. May His Gentle Soul Rest In Perfect Peace! Amen.

COMMODORE OKOH EBITU UKIWE, GCON

TRIBUTE TO CHIEF UBA EKEAGBARA OBASI PHF

                  “GREATLY BLESSED, FOREVER MISSED”

Papa!

Really??? Words still fail me!!! I thank God for the opportunity I had to spend time with you in Atlanta a few weeks before your demise – not knowing that was a ‘good-bye’ visit and our last opportunity to share confidences!

You were always there for me and my siblings, especially after we lost our father, Elder Chief Echeme Emole CFR. You were part of both our successes and our low points. My brother Chijioke, and my sisters as well as Mama have written our minds. I adopt every sentiment expressed!

Papa, requiescat in pace! – A very well deserved rest!

Onyekachi Otisi (nee Echeme Emole) J.

Tribute from Rev Olo Ndukwe Ph.d and Familty

Daddy Uba Ekeagbara Obasi: An Orthopraxist/Theology without Footnotes

Orthopraxis means ‘right belief coupled by right belief’ while theology without footnotes represents an embodied reflection on God and practice of godliness that does not require footnotes or end notes or in-text notes to explain.

Daddy these descriptions summarize your celebrative sojourn on this transient earth. You embodied your theologically rooted vision for human relationship/development, marriage and family headship, conflict resolution, church membership, hardwork/ industry, social transformation and development, honesty, transparency, etc beyond the shores of this continent; in substantive ways that remains a challenge to every normal person who ever associated with you.

You believed rightly about God as revealed in Jesus Christ and (to the best of mine and many other people’s knowledge), you rightly practiced the Christian religiosity in your private and public lives.

The moral osmosis, which your orthopraxis and embodied theology without footnotes generate, is in summary, monumental: I among many others to whom you are a bherakah (blessing), am a living witness to your God fearing life as ‘an orthopraxist’ and a ‘theology without footnotes.’

WE MISS YOU

Words cannot describe how bad I felt over the news of your death. I stood by you morally and spiritually but God has the final call. Sir, you have created a vacuum in my life. Sir, where ever you are I will always have you in my memory. May God be with you and accept you in his bosom. I recall the first day I went to his house; he told me that his name was Uba Obasi. I suddenly realized that I was named after him. He was in his late 70s then, but he told me that he was seven years old. I was around five so he told me I was seven since we had the same name. I was happy. He also let me play with his children’s toys. He was a very kind man. He was also generous. He never gets angry at little wrong mistakes. I was also told that he was a hardworking student and always passed his examinations. I think his relatives should know him as a man to be proud of. Whenever he travels overseas, when coming back, I will expect a lot of gifts, but now, I will be missing those gifts. You travelled there and never came back again. I do not believe you are dead. I think that you just left us on the earth and went to stay with God. Everyone in the world will still pass away from earth because our lives are like lighted candles in the strong wind.

       A pillar has fallen, a great man has departed; words cannot express the way I feel now knowing you are gone. Although you may not be seen physically again but you must be remembered everyday because you left behind a golden legacy of good name printed on the solid rock of your family and friends when you were alive. I pray that the Almighty God will help me live the type of life you lived, be a LEGEND, ICON PHILANTROPIST, an EDUCATOR etc.

 Adieu Chief Uba Obasi

Adieu papa anyi,

Adieu my fathers mentor

Uba Orji Innocent

Dority International

             I.      I BELIEVE IN FATHERHOOD’

YOU WERE MORE THAN A FATHER TO ME,

          II.      I BELIEVE IN FRIENDSHIP’

YOU BROUGHT US EVEN CLOSER,

       III.      I BELIEVE IN PACESETTING’

FOR YOU ALWAYS LED THE WAY,

      IV.      I BELIEVE IN MENTORSHIP’

FOR AM DRIVEN BY YOUR CONVICTIONS,

         V.      I BELIEVE IN EXCELLENCE’

YOU ARE AN ENIGMA OF IT,

      VI.      I BELIEVE IN PROSPERITY’

FOR GOD HAS MADE YOU A WONDER,

   VII.      I BELIEVE IN EXCELLENCE’

EVERYTHING ABOUT YOU SHOWED IT.

VIII.      I BELIEVE IN FAMILY’

ONE LOVE KEPT US TOGETHER,

      IX.      I BELIEVE IN CHRISTIANITY,

YOU SHOWED JESUS TO YOUR WORLD

         X.      I BELIEVE IN THE FUTURE.

FOR YOU HAVE GONE AHEAD,

      XI.      I BELIEVE IN YOU.

CHIEF INNOCENT I ORJI

AND FAMILY

THE EAGLE OF THE OBASIS IS GONE

THE BEAUTY OF ABIRIBA HAS GONE AHEAD

OH HOW ARE THE MIGHTY FALLEN?

TELL IT NOT IN ABIA STATE

PUBLISH IT NOT IN ABIRIBA

LEST THE PEOPLE WILL SAY

WHERE IS OUR HERO?

WHO WILL BE A FATHER TO THE FATHERLESS?

WHO WILL GIVE HOPE TO THE HOPELESS?

THE ARSENAL OF THE CEMENT WORLD

THE PARAGON OF BUSINESS

YOUR EMPIRES SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

A GENTLEMAN FROM SOLE TO CROWN

FULL OF ARMOUR, STRENGTH AND POWER

SWIFTER THAN EAGLES, STRONGER THAN LIONS

THE SHIELD OF THE MIGHTY IS CAST

OH HOW IS THE MIGHTY FALLEN?

A PERSONIFICATION WORTH EMULATING

FULL OF HEAVENLY QUALITIES

FULL OF HEAVENLY VARITIES

YOU IMPACTED YOUR WORLD WITH EXCELLENCE

A TRUE SON OF THE SOIL

A BLESSING TO MANY

When God seeks to bless or touch men, He always sends a man. His greatest gift always comes wrapped in a human package. Oh! How He loves us.

How would you describe a perfect gift? A perfect gift is one that meets your true needs, adds to your life, one that makes things easier, brings joy to you continually, is always useful and yet never ends. It’s a gift you probably can never really describe, picture or acquire. But the moment you receive it, it fits perfectly in your life.

This is what Chief I. Obasi was and is to us and yes, to the world.

To talk about such a man is like reading from the Bible. Every account is loaded with lesson and blessings untold. He was a mentor, a teacher, an

instructor, a pace setter, a leader, a father and a friend.

Chief I. Obasi has many achievements accredited to his name, but above all is his immense contribution to the teaching and growth of the body of Christ, his great words of advice in family, marriage and business. The legacies he left behind will enrich the lives of many yet unborn in years to come. He gave his time, his years of experience and his gifts unreservedly to us all.

As we reminisce on the glorious life he lived, we pay tribute to his sense of honour and integrity, his compassion for the needy, his passion for God’s work, his service to mankind and great love for his family.

But with pride in our hearts and genuine love and deep affection, we stand in salutation to an ICON, our father, Chief Uba E. Obasi.

Chief Sir Innocent I. Orji

And family.

ADIEU MY SON

You had been a great friend to my husband, long before we got married. Many years ago with my last pregnancy, you visited my husband Agwu and I at Nkalagu. You took a glance at my tummy and proclaimed “Agwu, this is my namesake, a biam hu ikoru ogbo.” I overheard this comment and disagreed, as I believed that I was having a baby girl. We all laughed over this. When the baby arrived, Chief Uba and his wife kalaria visited us with numerous gifts, joy and love. The baby was a bouncing baby boy named Uba after Chief Uba Obasi.

Since then, and after the death of my husband, Chief Uba Obasi “my Son” as I began to call him, continuously poured love, encouragement and guidance, not only to his ogbo, but also to the entire Agwu Anya family. We have indeed lost a father. He did numerous things for our family, which cannot all be mentioned, some of which included visits to the children in their respective institutions, where he emphasized the value of discipline, the importance of education and love for family, on his numerous trips to the United Kingdom. My son, you were one of a kind!

I later realized that it was in his nature to show love, affection and guidance, because as he was with our family, same way he was with many other homes that needed similar support and guidance. As such, his title, Ochi-Oha 1 of Abiriba aptly reflected who he was.

You were simply a wonderful man, Abiriba and the nation at large, have lost a man of substance and integrity. The peace, which you loved so much, must continue to be with your great soul. Rest in perfect peace

Mrs. Obioma Agwu Anya & Family.

A Tribute to Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi

My family and I received the news of the transition of late Chief Uba E Obasi on the 15th of Sept 2011 with mixed Joy and sombre reflections. Though at the ripe age of 83 years of his earthly Journey, it could be said "he tried" as most of us often Loosely say.

The greater joy however is the fulfillment of the scripture which says "the end of a thing is better than its beginning"( eccl7v8). Chief Uba's later life embodied a surrendered life having come to the knowledge of Our LORD and SAVIOR Jesus Christ. When Mama Kalaria confirmed he was singing a saintly song "What a friend we have in Jesus" before his passing I rejoiced gladly knowing he knew and was seeing the LORD beckoning on him with HIS angels lined up to receive him unto eternal rest( psalm 116v15).

My family shall miss him especially the treasured weekly sunday after service time of joy we were so accustomed to spending with Chief Obasi.The jokes,the stories, the wisdom, the encyclopedia and more, etched in those toil of years of experience blossomed through a warm and humble heart so ready to edify and encourage the younger generation for the journey ahead.

Ete Uba, Ochi Oha, you indeed have done your part. Our unfailing Prayer to your surviving family both immediate and extended is for love, joy, peace and unity to rule the hearts and mind of all as we all move forward with greater vigor.
You have left us a template, but we can do more and" all things through Christ who strengthens"( phil4v13).

May your soul rest surely in the bosom of Almighty God.

Shalom Shalom Shalom

Echeme Nnana-kalu
For Nancy,Nnana,Eleanya,Bobby,Ernest,Lilybeth and Clinton (Uba).

My very dear Ina,

Just received with shock the sad news of your father’s demise, am yet to come to terms with this painful loss. Your great father was a noble man, kind, honest and humble.

He lived a unique life worthy of emulation. Most of us who were lucky to get closer to him in his prime days derived priceless inspirations.

Am consoled with the fact that he left behind children like you who are drinking from the same pot of wisdom.

May The Almighty God grant him peaceful rest. Amen.

Chief S.I.Ejimofor.

Papa Nta: A Man Who Loved His Family and Community

Our Dad; Chief Uba; Ochi-Oha 1 of Abiriba; “99”; Onye Ukwu m’aba aba, Onye nta m’aba aba; ode n’fe, Papa Nta; a rare gem; an icon; a special man; and a pride to have as a father; for me and for all of us. All these accolades may not aptly describe this giant that we honor today. We all count ourselves lucky to have had this giant in our lives. His love was transparent and undiluted. His virtues are transcend in our lives, and his magnanimity reflect in all that he had done for all of us.

Papa Nta truly knew what life was about. He demonstrated that his family came first, for his actions left no room for doubt. In my teenage years, I saw my father as a very hard working man who woke up daily in the early hours of the morning, (about 4am), and drove himself from Aba to Port Harcourt everyday, especially after the war and throughout the 70’s, in pursuit of his business to ensure that he took care of his family. He preferred to drive himself, even though they were many attempts on his life almost every other week. On so many occasions he had to drive himself because his driver was never ready and he trusted himself on the steering wheel especially with all the treats around him. He believed in divine providence, and had faith in God and his ability to survive. It took several years of persuasion before he finally “succumbed” to use a driver in order to ease the stress of driving in the terrible and perilous Nigerian roads.

As teenagers, we weren't the easiest kids to raise, (imagine raising 9 boys), but his patience through our rebellious years still leave us humbled and astounded. He encouraged us all in fulfilling our dreams by creating a very friendly and loving environment for the family. He also created the enabling financial environment. That environment helped us to grow up secure and confident knowing that we were loved and cared for. And over time we've continued to learn all the lessons he taught us. His examples were our instructor of the virtue of respect as a means of attaining a dignified life.

Papa, your life was full of loving deeds, always thoughtful of our special needs; today, tomorrow, and our whole life through; we will always love and cherish you for your love and care.

Your Legacy of Hard work, Honesty, Love, Peace, and Unity, for the Family and Community, will continue to shine in us. We pray for strength, wisdom, tolerance, love, peace and unity, so that we can live up to the standard you and Papa Uku have set for us.

Although he loved his immediate family, Papa also loved the larger extended family, his community Abiriba, and the world far and beyond. He was a patriarch to his maternal family, the Nde Nnem Egbechioken family of Abiriba, and served this family to the end. Our Father's greatest joy was lending a helping hand to the needy, especially when it comes to Education. He helped so many to achieve their educational dreams. He was a philanthropist extra-ordinary.

My brother, Agbai, said it all on his tribute to Our Father: “Papa nta,
As CHILDREN, We saw you as an Honest, Hardworking Dad.

As TEENAGER, We saw you as a Lover of Family and Education. AS YOUNG MEN, We saw you as a Peace Maker and a Community Leader. NOW we see you as all the above + Philanthropist."

People will know we are Obasi Brothers by our love for one another as examplified by our parents (Papa Uku, Papa nta, Mama Uku, Mama nta).

We give thanks to God for the Life of our Father, Rtn Chief Uba E. Obasi (PHF). We thank Papa Nta for all the good influences he made upon the lives of others. We thank Papa Nta for the truth that has passed from his life into the lives of others. Our lives are richer because of it.

Lord, please open wide your gates, and receive the spirit of our father (Papa Nta). Grant him everlasting life; comfort our bereaved family and friends. Oh God, You know our frame of mind; “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord, May they rest for their labours and may their works follow them.” This I pray for my father.

I know mourning is a necessary part of the human experience. If it is ignored, a general feeling of sadness may pervade the whole family.

We will miss your words of Wisdom, counsel, and Guidance. WE LOVE AND MISS you IMMENSELY. May you continue to rest in perfect peace– Adieu!!!!

Lots of Love

Ukaku Ina Obasi (Mgboji nta)

TRIBUTE TO CHIEF UBA EKEAGBARA OBASI

My father inlaw was a great man, who showed kindness to all and always preached peace, humility, hard work, honesty and unity. Papa treated everyone as his daughter and son, he was always willing to help people at all times.

As my father inlaw for Fourteen years he was always there for me from my wedding to my graduation in the U.S.A, my children celebrations and even our visits to Atlanta to see him and spend time with him. Papa Always laughed whenever he sees my Mom ELDER KALARIA UBA OBASI TEASING ME.

We had fun and good memories to always remember. Papa Onyeukwu ma ABA  ABA ONYE NTA MA ABA ABA O DI NFE, the news about your death hit me like a bomb and I still have to believe that it is true. After spending time with you in LOS ANGELES IN JULY when YOU and MOM came for the A.C.I.U 2011 convention and hoping you will meet your new grandchild, little did I know you came to say farewell.

PaPa I will  forever be grateful to have known you and will always remember all your advice. My heart is sore and I Pray the Almighty GOD give the Family the strength to bear the heavy loss. We will forever miss you DaD.

VICKY UKAY OBASI.

LOS ANGELES CARLIFORNIA.   

TRIBUTE TO OUR GRANDFATHER

Our grandfather CHIEF UBA EKEAGBARA INA OBASI taught us to be honest in whatever we are doing, and to focus on our education. He also told us to stay away from anything that will bring shame to the family name.

He always made sure all the grandchildren were okay and took care of all of us. GrandPa was our mentor who believed that hardwork and having the fear of GOD pays off after all and not getting involved with unacceptable behaviours to get what you want in life. We had so much fun wth our Grandpa in Los Angeles and even when we visited him In Nigeria.

Uba weeps so much that u are gone but he will always remember his OGBO. God knows best and we will continue to celebrate your life and abide by the things you taught us. We will not put you to shame but will rather excel to uphold your name. Grandpa you have left a Big Vacuum in our hearts that no one else can replace it,

ADIEU AND REST WITH THE LORD.  

EFFIEM, KALARIA & UBA UKAY OBASI.

LOS ANGELES CARLIFORNIA. 

Tribute to Papa-Nta

Papa-Nta:

AS A CHILD, I saw you as an honest, hard working Dad. From your base in the luxury suite of Olympia hotel in Port Harcourt, you will travel home every weekend to be with your family and confer with your brother, Papa Uku. In less than 48 hours of your coming home, you are back again on the road to your base where you oversee the continuous discharge of your cargo (cement) from the Port Harcourt wharf. This trend will continued for over a decade, jointly working hard to build the foundation of Obasi Brothers. Later in our( children) lives, we will come to join you in Port Harcourt during our Obasi brothers Youth Service; and will partake in the all night tallying of tickets for lorries at the gate of the wharf as well as the luxury of the Olympia Hotel some times.

AS TEENAGER, I saw you as a lover of family and education. You worked very hard to provide for the needs of your family.  You and your brother created a unique family characterized by love and unity which is today, the family’s driving force. We deeply cherish this gift of UNITY and LOVE and make bold here today to reassure you that the legacy that you and your brother left behind shall continue. You ensured that all your children were well educated and independent. But you didn’t stop there, you extended your educational revolution to your relations and every body you came across that was in need. Today, you have an unprecedented record in educational scholarships awarded in our community and beyond.

AS YOUNG MAN, I saw you as a peace maker and a community leader. For a long time, our community was in turmoil and you were there consistently preaching and supporting the unity of our dear community even at a risk to your self and family. Your leadership roles and services to our community especially the Abiriba olu project is unparallel. Having seen the positive effects of unity and love in your family, it is not surprising that you stood firm for peace and unity of Abiriba. In return, the community honored you with the title of Ochi Oha of Abiriba.

NOW, I see you as all of the above  and also as an Entrepreneur par excellence and a Philanthropist.  Your love for humanity didn’t end with education but also touched various aspects of human endeavor. You were a champion in the Rotary Club which earned you a Paul Harris Fellow award, a Grand Patron of the Boys Brigade of Nigeria, a leader in the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria and host of others where your positive impacts would be missed. You and your brother built an enduring business conglomerate spanning various sectors of the economy from Imports to manufacturing to Oil and Gas. We thank God for the foresight and steadfastness of your partners.

AS YOU GO TO BE WITH THE LORD, we are consoled that you lived an exemplary life. We are further strengthened that you enjoyed your life here on earth and laid a solid foundation for your family. Despite your humble beginning,  you set high goals for yourself and for the family which you successfully achieved and left a mark that we shall always cherish as Obasi Brothers Family. You worked hard in your ‘morning’ and God blessed your ‘evening’. You sowed good seed and your reward was bountiful. You came, persevered and you conquered. You were a near perfect man; perhaps, that is why your friends call you ‘99’. Although you were not materialistic, you lived out your given name-Uba. It seemed like after witnessing our youngest brother celebrate his 40TH birthday, you had seen it all. You were indeed a legend. Ochi Oha, Ninety Nine, Papa-nta, go in peace. We love you and will always miss you.

May The Almighty God grant you eternal rest.

Agbai Ina Obasi

A humble tribute of a great man.

The news of the glorious passing of a great man, papa nta, Ochi Oha 1 of Abiriba, came as very sad news to my entire family, but still we received it because we knew our lord has taken him to a better place to rest.

Papa was a rare gem of his time, he built an impeccable family for we the Obasi Brothers family. He made everybody special when you are with him. Papa accepted me 14yrs ago as part of his family when one of his sons and name sake Elder Uba Obasi married me.

Chief Uba E. Obasi was an extraordinary man because Of the love he showed to his children which he also extended to their wives, and we love him so much for that.

I wish you had lived longer for us especially for your grand children Tai and Ina who always ask me why, and will always miss you so dearly, but I treasure the love and kindness we got from you while you where here with us.

Papa your legacy will live on, I was blessed that God almighty allowed me to be part of this great family. May your gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace.
Amen!

Your daughter/daughter in-law Comfort Uba Obasi.

A legend called to rest –Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi (PHF) (Papam nkenta )

The Ochi-Oha 1of Abiriba

A good name is better than silver and gold (Proverb 22:1); this is the principle that governed my family headed by both papa uku and papa nta. I grew up in an environment filled with love, understanding and discipline. I saw love lived out.  Brotherly love was practiced indeed. My two fathers with my two mothers will seat together and deliberate on issues. They will come together to decide and agree on their short term and long term family goals and projects.  I saw everyone fully delegated and do his or her cut out duty with love and carefulness. When decision has been reached, all we will hear is this line “Me and my brother have decided …………” Everything was in Unison.  God kind of love reigned of which we did not understand.  My papa nta showered it on us.

My papa nta was always on the go and he did it with love, joy and dedication.  Never for one day did he complain or compare. Every one in my family was encouraged to live out his or her God given role with grace and admiration. Gratitude and appreciations reigned. The Family motto was hard work and honesty.  I still hear this echoing in my heart as the two greatest virtues that lift one up and they will cause you to live and dine with princes in the land.  Papa nta was a man that loved details and I saw him always updating his brother and family. A man with a teachable spirit and he did his work with respect and love. Both brothers love was genuine and with a protective shield that none, not even their wives could separate but they rather joined and benefited from the union.

Papa nta was a man of class and lived as a European (Bekee). Thank God he lived and became an American citizen. He loved to eat in his dinning room with his family and friends no matter how late it was. He loved to look clean and neat and enjoyed wearing suits. He was a great dancer and a lover of music. Papa nta taught music and dancing and he won many awards from competing in social dance at country clubs both in Port Harcourt and Aba.  Papa nta was a caring and a kind man. He will never say no to a cry and this was seen as a weakness even in his family.  Papa uku will admonish him to send people to him so that he can discern and judge if the person is speaking the truth or just taking advantage of this generous nature even us the children. Because papa nta is on the go, we wait until the time he is leaving to go and ask for cookie and we knew we will never be denied and papa uku will be mad at him and us.

Papa nta, a man that loved his family and worked hard to ensure everyone received the best education.  My two fathers were in love with education.  I guessed because they were denied of it.  They invested in it and encouraged their wives, their children and the rest of the extended family members to embark on this noble venture. For this my beloved Papa nta I salute you and thank you for those days in the iced cooled wind and sunny days on the Atlantic Ocean to inspect and off load cements which proceeds were used to train and give us the best in life. Thank you so dearly.

Papam nketa, I thank you for your sacrificial life. Thank you for being a leader in your family and community.  Today, as the whole family,  friends and the Abiriba community which you loved and lived for celebrate and honor you and your legacy, I want to reassure you that this legacy of hard work, honesty, love, humility and unity will be passed on to the next generation.  As long as I live, I will ensure

that your loving memory will be remembered and any project the family will embark to immortalize our legacy will bear the name you loved dearly “The Obasi Brothers”. 

The bible in Rev 14:13 states -Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me “Write: ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’ “ “Yes,” says the spirit, ‘that they may rest from their labors and their works follow them.  Papa nta I have been comforted from hearing how much your works have followed you.  Yes the works I saw with my brethren and we are living for them at this time.

 Papam nkenta may your kind and gentle soul rest in perfect peace till we meet to part no more- Amen

Love Always

Effiem Abai Otah ((Iyiam Effiem).

TRIBUTE TO NNAM UKWU

CHIEF UBA .E. OBASI

The sad news of your death rocked me from stern to stern. Though we knew you had some ailment, we least expected it was time. Because you were tendered to round the clock with superlative care of your amiable, dutiful wife and resourceful, loving children. Backed up with the best products American medical sciences could offer. Yet, we cannot but accept the will of God in this sad, painful situation.

  Let us take solace in the fact that our departed Rt. Hon. Rotarian Uba .E. Obasi lived a fulfilled life adorned with enduring legacies.

  With rare zeal and passion for our Abiriba kingdom, he played a front line role in the development and social advancement of our ancient city all his life.

  With ardent love and wholesome respect you won the heart of your senior brother Chief Ina .E. Obasi of blessed memories. That, as a building block, you doggedly nurtured a united, loving and resourceful family laced the entire circle with graduates.

  You touched many lives in many different ways. But the family unity, resourcefulness and love is most of all, your towering legacy.

  By these legacies, family members, friends and well wishers may find solace and bear the painful loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace.   

   Adieu Nnam Uku, Adieu Amogudu Uku 

Chief Chika Akanu Agu

Ome Oha Fu-Uzor

Abiriba  

A memorial tribute to Uncle Uba

I heard the passing on of Uncle Uba with deep sorrow. I had just spoken to him and his wife less than two weeks before and I saw no sign that the time had come.

Farewell good uncle. You lived your life to the full, and I pray that the Almighty God accepts you in His bosom.

This tribute is on behalf of the children of late Chief JN Kalu and Chief Arua Kalu

A memorial tribute for our beloved uncle is not complete without recalling that Chief Uba loved people, and did to perfection anything he undertook. He knew from a very young age the power and importance of education and since he had no formal education himself he became self-taught. He was not only an effective advocate of education for both males and females, he was also instrumental in the education of numerous people, both his family and non family members alike.

Uncle Uba truly loved Abiriba and he served our kingdom well and contributed to the growth of Abiriba in many ways. I remember particularly that he was among those who undertook to combat the erosion that nearly swallowed Abiriba.

Uncle Uba was a man of peace and he used his God given talent of leadership to benefit mankind as he settled many cases of conflicts between individuals and communities.

Uncle Uba was a very successful business man and he used his wealth also for public good.

Last but not least, uncle Uba was blessed with a devoted wife. At death he left a loving wife, numerous children and grand children, two sisters and very many of us who simply called him Uncle.

On behalf of the children of late Chief JNKalu and Chief Arua Kalu, it is with heavy heart that I bid you Good bye, special Uncle.

Professor Dike.

October 20, 2011

Tribute in honor of  Hon / Chief Uba E. Obasi, (PHF)

Ochi  Oha 1 Of Abiriba

By

Rtn / Prince Obasi  Uba  Obasi  Jr (PHF).

There are cherished ways Papa Nta used to call me, “ OB  Boy” , “ Oburu Oburu owoh “ . Chief, you lived a good life. Your personal love, honesty, caring, generosity, forgiveness, total trust in God, and your word of advice that “ with honesty and hard-work, Capital is not an issue  are all worthy of emulation.

All these virtues made me consider you a saint and a fulfilled Daddy. Deut. 7:13 says “ He will love thee, and bless thee, and multiply thee:..” . Papa has many children all alive by HIS Grace.  Psalm 128:6 says “  Yea, thou shalt see thy children’s children, ..”. Rev 14:13 says “ Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the spiri, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them” . “To live is CHRIST and to die is gain ….. and to be with CHRIST which is far better”.

There is no doubt this Rest is your reward as a loving  and caring father who through your rare qualities and rewarding life had given me the courage to survive.

However, death as a matter of fact creates in us a feeling of great loss and  bereavement especially when it grips my dear one such as you, Daddy !!!!

I thank God for the remarkable and enormous contributions my father made towards the growth, development and sustenance of   not just the Obasi Brothers family and Abiriba community but that of Abia State and Nigeria.

Adieu for now until the Resurrection morning when we shall meet again where far away from the ‘world grief and sin’ , Papa is now eternally shut in with God !!!!

Adieu  Papa  !!!!

Adieu  Ochi  Oha 1 Of Abiriba !!!!

CHIEF UBA EKEAGBARA OBASI – A TRUE FRIEND

TRIBUTE BY ELDER (MRS.) N.N. EMOLE (UGWUDIYA)

I write this tribute in honour of a relationship that has lasted for more than 60 years.

Chief Uba Ekeagbara. Obasi and his late elder brother, Chief Ina Ekeagbara Obasi, were friends with my late Uncle, Chief Chukwu Onwuka in the 1940s. That was how I got to know both brothers. I was in primary school at the time.

My older Uncle, late Chief Ikwan Onwuka, was a big merchant in Lagos at the time. Chief Ikwan Onwuka was a close friend of late Chief Nkungwu Ukuku, who was Uba’s master at the material time. While in primary school, whenever I was going on holidays to Lagos, I would usually go by ship, boarding in Port Harcourt. Chief Nkungwu Ukuku would instruct Uba to escort me to the ship and wait until the ship departs before returning. Uba did that faithfully.

When my husband, late Chief Echeme Emole CFR, and I returned from London in August 1952, late Chief Ina Obasi met us in Lagos, collecting our luggage to bring by ship to Port Harcourt in order to save costs, while we came by airplane to Port Harcourt. As was the custom then, when one returns home from abroad, you were accorded a rousing reception by your community to welcome you. Uba and late Chief Ina Obasi organized the reception for us in Port Harcourt. We were received by the entire Abiriba Community and it was very grand.

Uba was a very principled man. We were both members of the respected Okezie Otutu Enyi Age grade; and he led our Age grade to enviable heights of achievement and unity in Abiriba. Other age grades copied from us.

Uba was a very kind and hardworking man. When my husband died in June 1985, Uba was a pillar of strength to my children and me. He took all my children as his own and stood by us. He was always at hand to assist and advice. God used him in so many ways on our behalf, and we remain very grateful.

Relationships of this nature are now very rare. I pray that God will enable generations of our families to maintain the bond the two families have shared.

Uba, my family and I will miss you dearly. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace, Amen.

Elder (Mrs.) Nneji Nwannediya Emole (Ugwudiya)

My Dear Father-in-law,

You'll not soon be forgotten, although for now, and physically from us, you've gone,

Back to the Almighty Creator, to your new mansion and your heavenly home.

Your infectious laughter, wit, wisdom and words of advice, stories... and from your bounties we shall remain prone. 

Your gentle kindness, generosity and the warmth of your spirit will forever live on,as evidence in the abundance of love, peace, and guidance you've lovingly taught us, demonstrated and shown.

No more needle sticks, no more bp checks, no more from pain will you groan,

No more dietary restrictions or "no-salt or sugar-free zones"...

(in Heaven, you can eat whatever you like- you are probably wishing you could have gotten there sooner, with all of the earthly dietary restrictions that were imposed upon you?)

From now on, the Streets of Gold is where you will roam,

in a city older than Eden, with gates of pearl that are taller than Rome.

Praisssse the Lord! You've reached your cherished destination, you've reached your heavenly home.

Lovingly submitted by your Daughter-in-law, Carmen O.U. Obasi

                                                                                                         Michael Bianchi

September 16, 2011

Dear Obasi Family,

I recently received word of Chief Uba Obasi's sudden passing and wish to express my sincerest condolences for your loss.

I did not have the pleasure to spend much time with Chief, but know within the few moments we shared he was a great man with tremendous heart, full of passion and respect for life.

I recall my first meeting with Chief in his home where he mentioned of making me a Chief, for which I felt very honoured.I respectfully declined, but honestly felt his be-loving kindness and trust.

He was a person admired and respected by all, especially my father, and whom always unconditionally cared for others. He will be truly missed.

Sincerely,

Michael Bianchi

TRIBUTE IN HONOUR OF CHIEF UBA EKEAGBARA OBASI, OCHI OHA OF ABIRIBA

by Chijioke Echeme Emole on behalf of the family of Elder Chief Echeme Emole, C.F.R., Eze Udo of Abiriba

A Titan Departs

It is with a sense of loss and a sense of privilege that I write this tribute in honor of Chief Uba Ekeagbara Obasi, Ochi Oha of Abiriba – Papa Nta or Ete Uba as he was fondly called: A sense of loss because Abiriba, Igbos, Nigeria, and humanity in general have lost a Titan. A sense of privilege because I count myself privileged to have known and been humbly associated with Ete Uba, for whom I have the greatest respect.The Echeme Emole and Ekeagbara Obasi families have been intimately and intricately linked with each other as friends and confidants for over 70 years across generations; a testament to Ete Uba’s tremendous capacity to develop and sustain deep and intimate friendships with people throughout his gigantic life that positively impacted any one that was privileged to come into contact with him. Contrast that with the fair-weather friendships that apparently are the norm in today’s society. How many people reading this have even some of the same friends they had only 3 years’ ago?Ete Uba was a business tycoon in the traditional, old-fashioned and dignified sense of that phrase. As early as when he was in his early twenties, he was already a successful businessman. And he sustained that business success for almost seventy years. He was a cement business magnate in the old, noble sense of the phrase, successfully managing a business concern that was a principal player in the import of cement into Nigeria. He traded in okporoko -- stock fish. He was instrumental in the setting up of an oil services company based in Port-Harcourt that provides oilfield services to the petroleum industry and the founding of a bottled-water company based in Aba. He was an international real estate avatar. This diversity in business dealings indicates the acumen, foresight, insight, savvy, innovation, and deep knowledge of global business trends that he demonstrated in his distinguished international business career. He worked hard to pass on these competencies to hundreds of his business protégés. In short, Ete Uba is a distinguished member of that (alas, now rapidly vanishing) old-school class of energetic and brilliant Abiriba/Igbo business tycoons whose enduringly successful businesses would be case studies at business schools that are privileged to study them.Ete Uba was a humanist in the best sense of that word. He loved humanity. He was interested in advancing humanity. He enjoyed interacting with humanity. He positively affected humanity. He was extremely intellectually curious, constantly seeking and searching and sharing knowledge about diverse human endeavors. The profundity of his thoughts and knowledge and sense of history dazzled all, who would always gather to listen to him. Ete Uba was a raconteur of the highest order; who would electrify any audience – high brow, middle brow, or low brow -- with his conversationalist skills as a sage, a philosopher, a repository of history, a visionary, and a global thinker. It is a sad commentary on the state of education today that some if not many university graduates cannot match the intensity of the intellectual curiosity and search for knowledge that Ete Uba exemplified even though he did not necessarily undergo long years of formal schooling. I personally, and my entire family generally, benefitted tremendously from his guidance and wisdom and advice and generosity and humaneness and warm sense of humor. A textbook length of writing will be required for me to enumerate all I benefitted from him. His laughter resonated in your ear long after you heard it. 19 years’ ago, I named my second son “Uba” to celebrate my profound respect for him.Ete Uba was a family man to the core. He lavished his love on his wife, children and nieces and nephews and extended family. He sacrificed tremendously and was a driving force in educating his family and caring for them. He loved his dear wife, the graceful and beautiful Kalaria for multiple decades and kept every promise he made to her, including permitting her to further her university education after their marriage; which promise he made to her when she was betrothed to him under the auspices of her uncle, late Chief Ibe Agbai Otah, another departed Titan. The younger generation of this world, with prevailing values that apparently view marriage as disposable, will learn multiple lessons for their own good by understanding how Ete Uba delightfully conducted his own marriage for over 54 years. The marvelous friendship and love between Ete Uba and his late and celebrated senior brother, Chief Ina Ekeagabara Obasi, Ekwueme of Abiriba, yet another departed Titan, stands as a testament to brotherly love and friendship; it was a relationship of affection and collaboration and cooperation of humongous proportions that stands as a sharp rebuke to the infighting, bitterness, and bloodletting amongst some if not many families today. Both brothers were fondly and popularly known as, and they named their nascent business, “Obasi Brothers.”Ete Uba, long before these became buzzwords in international economic literature, intuitively knew the importance of education in developing and nurturing individual and national competiveness and innovation and value-adding capabilities. He also greatly appreciated the cultivation of the mind. Thus he was both a passionate activist in advocating for the education of every person and a willing and able and demonstrated financier or counterpart funder of the education of hundreds if not thousands of people in Nigeria and overseas from elementary to secondary to tertiary to post-tertiary educational levels. The admirable philanthropic ends to which Bill Gates, Melinda Gates, and Warren Buffett are today putting their billions of dollars of wealth, instead of utilizing the same purely for self-aggrandizement or merely to satiate hedonistic impulses, were the exact same noble ends to which Ete Uba deployed his own wealth; unlike many today who use their wealth only to build clay-footed monuments of hubris.Ete Uba was a strong believer in the Lordship of Jesus Christ and worked tirelessly to advance the Kingdom of God through the instrumentality of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria. He demonstrated Christian principles in his daily interaction with people. Using the words of Psalm 92, the late Right Reverend James Ukaegbu of blessed memory preached in Aba during Ete Uba’s 40th wedding anniversary in December 1997 about how the righteous will flourish like palm tree; and grow like the cedar of Lebanon; and be planted in the House of the Lord; and flourish in the Courts of our God; and still bear fruit in old age and stay fresh and green; while proclaiming: The Lord is upright; He is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in Him. Indeed, Ete Uba’s life till his death is aptly described by Psalm 92.Ete Uba was a grand peacemaker; he was constantly, even at great risk to himself and his health, settling disputes all over the globe between married couples, and between and within extended families, various hamlets, communities and villages; and even within the Body of Christ! Whether it was mediation, arbitration or conciliation, Ete headed many of such alternative dispute-settlement initiatives aimed at bringing peace in our time. He certainly sued for peace at all times and was constantly executing the ministry of reconciliation across the globe, thereby preventing several disputes from being litigated in court. “Blessed are the peace makers for they shall be called children of God,” the Lord Jesus Christ stated in Matthew 5:9. Ete Uba was indeed a child of God. He sowed peace and thereby reaped peace in abundance.Ete Uba was a pillar of the Abiriba community, and of old Bende Division of Abia State – and the Aba and Port-Harcourt business firmaments. He was also a leader in the distinguished and legendary Okezie Age Grade of Abiriba and was a leading light of the Otutu Enyi of the Okezie Age Grade, to which my mother, Elder Chief Mrs Nneji Nwannediya Emole, also belongs.Ete Uba was a Titan, one of the human greats that walked on the shores of Africa, an Abiriba-Igbo affairs’ game changer, an Abiriba, Igbo, Nigerian, and African patriot, a business tycoon, a trading and industrial magnate, a family man in the largest sense of that phrase, a child of God, a humanist, a peace-monger, a minister of reconciliation, one who flourished even in old age, a father to the fatherless, a catalyst in the education of many, an exemplary married man, a community mobilizer extraordinaire, a leader of people, a man of integrity, a model of hard work, an Okezie Age Grade linchpin, a historian, energetic, handsome, charismatic, humorous, and a friend to all. He permitted even small ones like me to befriend him. Even though he was my earthly “master” (Nna Ukwu in the terminology of the Abiriba master-apprentice paradigm), he allowed me to become his friend; even though my own parents were not yet married when he and his late senior brother became friends with my parents and their uncles in Calabar in the 1940s. Truly, we both shared deep confidences and I drank to my fill from his bounty of love and wisdom and foresight and generosity.Since the demise of our father in 1985, Ete Uba has stood as a father to me and my sisters and all of us have kept in constant touch with him, continuously obtaining guidance and support from him. When I visited him in Aba in February 2006, we recounted the inextricable bonds of our friendship and I wept profusely in appreciation of the great and good deeds he had performed in my life, not knowing when I would see him again. Fortunately, we saw each other in Abiriba in December 2007 and again when I and my wife visited him in Los Angeles in the middle of 2009. That was the last time we saw; although we spoke on the phone often, the last being in late August 2011 while he was in Atlanta. My sister, Hon. Justice Onyekachi Otisi, visited him in Atlanta in late August 2011 and took pictures with Ete Uba and Mama Kalaria, which pictures revealed such incredible peace and joy in Ete Uba in his last few weeks on earth.Ete Uba, this ordinary yet extraordinary man, this humble man whose tremendous legacy stands tall and will stand tall for generations on end, this man and leader of the people with abundant laughter, may your soul rest in perfect peace.Chijioke Echeme Emole on behalf of the family of Elder Chief Echeme Emole, C.F.R., Eze Udo of Abiriba -- 22 September 2011