It is quite sad to hear from your daughter Ifeoma who is also my sister that you have gone to be with the Lord, but what can we do to stop death from taking our loved ones? You were a great man and a wonderful father to all of us. We loved but God loves you more. I believe you are in a better place. May God grant you eternal rest in his kingdom, Amen. Agaezi Ukeje

In Loving Memory of the Late Chief Ajie Opiah. My uncle was a God-fearing, kind-hearted man. He was a man of impeccable manners whom I was so grateful to have in my life. His generosity and strong-minded made him beautiful inside and out. I was inspired by his knowing just the words to say when I was in need of comfort. I appreciated his great wisdom, understanding, and good listening. I loved him dearly and he will greatly be missed. May his soul rest in peace till we meet again.
Love from Joseph Odili Opiah

Papa, your Adaobi’s calls went unanswered for quite a while, then I came to accept that it hasn’t been any network issues. That you aren’t in the physical anymore and our communication on that level has come to an end.
With gratitude to God, I accept all of that for God’s word in Eccl 3:1-2 reminds us that “To everything, there is a season, A time for every purpose under the heaven”.
However, writing this tribute to you Dad is another hard task to undertake in my life with several attempts to pen it terminated with an endless flow of tears. Priceless memories of the life we shared inevitably got me going.
Dad, you were a quintessential husband to mum and father to us. You loved, cared for, and provided sacrificially for us in a peaceful and Godly home. You were bubbly, fun to be with and careful with minute details. As a teenager, I can’t forget how you used to take details of both the driver and vehicle each time I was going off to school and you’d patiently wait until the vehicle leaves the terminus. Homecoming from school wasn’t any different as I looked forward to your warm reception creating the ambient environment to cushion whatever stress I was bringing.
You equally loved the extended Opiah family just as much as you did us. You reached out regularly to your siblings and their families ensuring unity, love, and peace. In fact, your love for the Opiah family and your willingness to constantly protect and promote it was described as unprecedented by your siblings.
You and mum sacrificed everything you had to see us become university graduates. I remember having to somehow end your Sunday - Sunday visits in my first year at the University just to ensure your Adaobi’s welfare because it had ‘embarrassingly’ earned me the nickname “Daddy’s girl”.
The untimely departure of mum, your beloved wife, and the attendant deterioration in your health, did not diminish your fatherly love and care towards us, steadfastly reaching out on phone and physically, praying, encouraging, and most importantly declaring blessings on us at every given opportunity.
Papa, in May 2019, when you took ill and we thought you wouldn’t make it, my husband got me on the next available flight as we prayed that God should keep you and He did. His healing grace came through and granted us the opportunity to celebrate your 80th birthday with friends and family. I still hear your voice at my departure saying “so I’ll not see you again before I die”, a statement I both rejected and encouraged you to retract but has turned out prophetic. Sadly, that turned out to be the last physical contact we would make.
Mpa, your love, your patience, your understanding, your wisdom, and your amazing sense of humor will live on inside of us forever. We shall continue in your legacy of Trusting in God, Love, Honesty, Gratitude, and Unity.
I love you so much, Papa. Goodbye, you’ll always live on in my heart.
Rest well Papa till we meet to part no more.
Deaconess Ifeoma Eche. ( Daughter)

Papa, we miss you every day, whenever we come back from school, you are always there to receive us from school. We will miss the time we spent together and all the wonderful stories we create. We take pride in the bible that says we will meet again on the resurrection morning and reign with Christ forever. You will be forever remembered and missed. Rest in peace Grandpa.
Prince (Grand Son)

Grandpa, you have loved me since the day I was born. When I heard you died I cried, I felt so sad like I have never felt before but all the memories I shared with you will always still be with me, I will always think of you every day and every night you were the best grandpa and I will always love you.
Manny Boy (Grand Son)

Grandpa, your death has brought us all sadness because you have been there for every single one of us. You have spent the time you had playing with us, buying things for us, and giving us advice for the life ahead of us. Sadly a few years after we left you departed from us to be with the Lord. We never got to say goodbye, you
were gone before we knew it. We think about you every time and you will never be forgotten. It broke our hearts to lose you, but you will forever remain in our hearts. Although we weren’t able to see you in person anymore, your words have and will always guide us for the rest of our lives. We are lucky to have you as a grandpa.
Nneoma (Grand Daughter)

Dear Grandpa,
We never got to give you a farewell, you will always be in our hearts even in your death, I will miss your wisdom the many years of experience, and the pure love of an understanding heart. You may have passed on but your memory will live on in our hearts. When you depart from us, we find it challenging to get the right words to express how we feel about your loss. I can remember vividly when I used to take your cap and the walking stick you would shout and then buy us crackers after to compensate us when we cried. Your memory will always remain in our hearts and your actions seem to have been passed down to my mom, we all love and miss you. We hope to reunite with you someday in the fullness of time.
Chidera (Grand Son)

Our beloved Grandpa when I received the news that you passed away I was shocked, I had just lost an important person in my life. Even in your death, I will miss your knowledge and the pure love of an understanding heart. You brought warmth, happiness, wisdom, and love to our souls. I am grateful for having such a wonderful grandpa like you. I am lucky to have a grandfather like you.
I am happy that I grew up around a person like you. I learned so much, and I wish we could have visited you one more time before you left us to join God in heaven. I have watched as you took care of my mother. Now that you’ve gone, I promise to continue from where you stopped.
Walter (Grand Son)

Dear Papa Oby, you were so special, who was loved so much, and brought so much happiness to many hearts you touched. I have unforgettable memories of you, growing up as a young woman at Aba for me to realize the wonderful friendship that you and your beautiful wife ‘Mama Oby’ shared with my late beloved Mama ‘Opuruiche’. You were always kind, caring, supportive, and giving in all your ways. Even though you have gone to be with God, I will always have a lifetime memory of you as the great man, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend that you were. I know that your spirit will always stay with us. I miss you and I love you, Papa Oby. Rest in Perfect Peace. Amen.
Aunty Franca (From your friend Oputuiche’s daughter)

Don’t grieve for him, because he is finally free, he is following the path God laid for him. He won’t be far away, for life goes on, just listen with your heart and you will feel his love all around his family. Life is eternal and love is immortal and death is only a horizon. Mpa Rita, you had a smile that brought so much pleasure and above all, you had a love that brought joy beyond measure.
Adieu Mpa Rita. ~
Lolo Philomena Ukanwa on behalf of Ukanwa’s family

Papa Opiah a wonderful man with a great heart.
I met Papa Opiah for the first time with his wife at their daughter’s wedding in Lagos. It was as if he knew me long before I met him. Very spiritual, dedicated, and a great discerner. He loved and believed nothing is impossible with God. Papa loves to read the Bible with precision. He is very intelligent and he cherished the word of God. Permit me to say that he loved me just as he loves his children. Papa as I call him always wants to have someone talking about God besides him. He knew God but he rededicated his life to God about a few years before he passed on. He’s never tired of hearing testimonies of the goodness of God. Sincerely, I love to be beside Papa Opiah. You can never be tired of discussing with him. Tirelessly loving his children, a great adventurer. Papa Opiah I sure miss your company. Rest in perfect peace till we meet to part no more.
From your daughter
Pastor Bimpe Oduola
RCCG Light of Life
Lagos

I am honored to have had the privilege to have been able to call you Npa, 
You set a lasting impression on everyone you met with your warm heart. I remember you holding my little hands to school and bringing me back home after school, you would keep the last piecemeal for me every time you ate and would fondly call me ‘Esther Marley’, and that automatically brightens my face. Rest on Npa, I will miss you dearly.
E. Uche

Though I met but a few times, I still remember you as a father, a man with lots of wisdom and an achieving spirit. Your life exudes lots of hope and faith. A very happy man and a conqueror.
You were a friend to everyone and made everybody who came close to you feel at home and happy.
Unfortunately, death came, but death won't stop us from remembering you as caring, loving, playful, and entertaining. This is the memory we will forever hold and cherish.
we will miss you.
ADIEU
Engr.Njionye Okereke

Papa Kingsley as we fondly call you, I guess now it's time to say farewell, but this farewell I wish could rather not be now. If wishes were horses, we could have had you for another 80years, but the Almighty God has other plans, hence we reluctantly have to accept your departure.
You would forever be part and parcel of me, growing up at a time under your watch. A time when my welfare and education were acts of your benevolence having lost my mum very early in life. Mere words would not be enough expression of what you have done through your efforts and sacrifices. It's really a sorrowful moment as we bid you a final farewell. I thank God Almighty for giving us you and I pray He gives you perfect peace till we meet again.
Mrs Ugonma Okereke
(Sister-in-law)

You poured your heart into my family when you showed unconditional love and care towards us, you would make everyone’s need priority before yours and presently be there to cheer and make everyone happy. Heaven has gained a soul and your family will continue to miss you. It is sad to feel that you are no more with us on earth, continue to rest in peace as we hold on to your memories.
Mrs Lewechi Ukandu
(Sister-in-law)

Papa, I will always remember you as my papa...a very accommodating, caring, and hospitable man. At no time knowing you did I ever see you as anything else but my papa. You were one of the kindest people I knew.
Your care for others was legendary. Thank you for always receiving me into your home. Your home was my home.

I knew that I could walk in at any time and be warmly received with no questions asked. You came, you saw, and you conquered. Even when all odds were against you during the duration of your sickness, you always overcame it. I'm glad I was physical with you during your 80th birthday.
That was another time many thought you wouldn't make it...but you made it.
Thank you for your love and care always. I will always remember you with warmth and nostalgia. May your soul be encompassed in the bosom of the Lord.
Ga nu udo.
Pastor Chidiebere Prince Mbuko

I still cannot believe that I'm writing a tribute because of your demise, words cannot describe this difficult moment, but if this is how I will say goodbye then I cannot question the Almighty......
I'm honored to have known you as the loving and caring father you are... I get to know you as our neighbor some years back, one thing I know of you is your loveable and friendly attributes... A Golden soul...Rest on Sir and May the Almighty God give us the strength to bear this blow of your demise.
Adieu!!! Papa.
Pastor Mrs. Favour Nnenna Onyejide.

A TRIBUTE TO THE LATE CHIEF EMMANUEL OPIAH
On this faithful day Thursday 28th April 2022, papa Kingsley as we call him joined our father in his heavenly home.
You were a father, brother–in–law, and a friend to many who were fortunate enough to have you, you did touch their lives in many positive ways.
I could not forget in a hurry how you contributed your quota to my secondary school education at aba then with many other members of my family.
You were a devoted husband to my late sister – (your wife) and were able to raise your children with strong morals by which they live.
Your five children (5) and many grandchildren were a source of pride and great joy. Your ability to appreciate the simple pleasures in life and to find joy in most situations make the difference.
Your encouragement to me at my present business adversaries since the death of my partner (late otisi Kalu) can never be forgotten but my only regret is that you never lived to know the outcome.  Such is life.
You welcome me and every member of my family as part of yours and treat us as such that made us feel special. I am grateful for the time we spent together, and the laughter we shared.
We are all blessed to have been part of your life and to have the assurance that we will one day meet again to part no more.
Omokwe family shall always miss you and remain blessed with the lord.
Mr.Okechukwu Omokwe
(Brother-in-law)

I have known my father-in-law since my childhood age, and I can say that I’ve been blessed to have had him much closer to my life for the past 18 years, since he gave his precious, beautiful, and lovely daughter Obianuju to me as my wife. During this period, I got to know the man whom I refer to as ‘Papa Ibem’ who raised my wife and made her who she is today.

  I thank God that our kids grew up knowing the man that raised their mom and whom they called papa, although I would have wished that they could have learned more from him. My father-in-law was a simple, easy-going man and yet he was intense, loving, and, above all, he was a family man who loved his wife and children to a fault.

 I know he had his fair challenges in life, as it was with every young honest man of his age, but he made sure he provided the needful guidance for responsibility, hard work, and ethical and moral sense to his children. He taught them how to help each other and love one another. I have always had fun being and talking with him, and I admired him for being there for me and my family, especially on those days I was not around.

I believe he is with us, as many of his beautiful traits have become part of our lives, as they radiate through my wife Obianuju, her brothers, and sisters. We miss you ‘Papa Ibem’ and we will always remember and love you.

Adieu, Papa.
Barr. Eke Uduma
(Son-in-law)

Tribute to Papa – An Honourable Man!
In Ecclesiastes 3: 2, the flip side of being born is death – an unpleasant event especially to those left behind no matter at what age it comes around.
Scripturally inevitable as it may be, Papa your passage remains difficult for me to accept even as I continue hoping to hear your inspiring voice on the phone again with that trade-mark greeting, “my honourable doc”.
Our very first encounter remains very vivid in my memory. The love, warmth and acceptance you displayed was humbling to me, and that, was never faked. Because it remained consistent in our relationship fostering a strong father-son bond. Over the years you showed me fatherly love - giving valuable advice, words of encouragement and more importantly praying so many times specifically for me. It was not all about your daughter, my wife. As we all struggle to process your departure, I will sorely miss you.
From the story of your life and my personal experience, you were indeed an honorable man (an uncommon virtue these days) - selfless, contended, and God-fearing. I am happy I had one as a father-in-law!
I rejoice even more in the fact that you have gone to be with the Lord, in a better place. And in the great legacy, you left behind which includes my adorable wife. May your legacy endure!
Papa, you have fought the good fight & run your race honorably, do rest in the bosom of our Eternal Father in Jesus’ name. Papa lerua anya!
Dr. Mecha Eche
(Son-in-law)

Tribute to Uncle Ajie-
What a wonderful uncle you were, ever loving, caring, and encouraging peace in the family. When we look back and see how were there for us when some members of the family passed away and went to be with the Lord, you were always the first to bring everyone together, always preaching peace and love, we cherished every moment we spent with you. We know you are in a better place in the bosom of the Lord watching over all of us. What a wonderful uncle you were, we love you but God loves you must. Rest in perfect peace till we meet and part no more. Adieu, uncle.
Aunty Odanibe's children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren

My Uncle, Ajie Opiah, known to us as Ojunwala was the last son of his parents. He had a good childhood and even though my grandparents were rich in the sense of basic needs, their home was filled with love. My uncle Ojunwala and my spiritual teacher, my mum often told me how the dynasty began, especially our grand dad (OPIAH Ajie) always made sure they had all the things they needed. Moreover, my grandparents understood the value of education, hard work and did their best to encourage and see all their children through honest living as descendant of Uti.
Growing up as a little boy, I didn’t quite understand nor appreciate my uncle honestly but as soon as I became a man, I realized what an amazing person he was. Although we lived in different states, he would call and check on us, just to be sure we are good. He would always do his best to attend family events or send the most thoughtful presents- “Word of Wisdom”. May God grant us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change, courage to change what we can and wisdom to discern, Amen.
Peter Opiah

Tribute to Chief Emmanuel Ajieh Opiah, (1939-2022)
Chief Emmanuel Ajie Opiah (the Ojunwala of Aboh Kingdom) was the last of my surviving uncles. As a child I heard my father talk about one of his brothers called Ajie. I saw him when he came to our house in Jos on holidays. After that time, we never met till after the war.
My observation gave rise to the fact that I saw him as one who sought to do good as much as was appropriate and that he could afford. He loved the name ‘Opiah’ and could take up arms, if need be, to protect the name and the family. It was for the love of this and the love he had for his father, that he took the title, ‘Ojunwala’ at the conferment of his chieftaincy title in order to honour his father.  It was for the love he had for our family name (Opiah) that he insisted and advised on ways to enable me through thick and thin obtain my mother’s corpse for funeral.  
He never failed to greet me with my father’s chieftaincy title (Ogene) even before I took on the title, of which he encouraged me to. There was little or no time to start looking for hat to buy when I was to take the title, so he lent me his hat and beads for use at the conferment of the chieftaincy title. It is mandatory to put on the hat and beads during the ceremony; although, I ended up not making use of them in the end. But that kindness is worth remembering and mentioning. It shows his love for the family and name (Opiah). 
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
Chief Emmanuel Onwusa Opiah.                                                            The Onishe Ogene of Aboh Kingdom

A man may die, but his legacy will continue through his deeds. You have departed, leaving your loved ones behind with your memories. You were known as a bundle of energy, always trying to see the best in others and giving the best you had. I remember the last time I saw you; I remember your kind words and your humor. Today, we have lost a man of good deeds. The brightness of your smile and the goodness of your soul will always stay in our hearts because you were one gem of a person we had. Losing you is no doubt a big loss to all of us. It is a very painful moment for our family, but in all we do, we must give thanks to God. So today, I thank God for allowing us to share in the life you had while with us as I bid you farewell. Rest in peace Papa.
Mrs. Gloria Opiah.
(Sister-in-law)

Tribute to my caring and loving brother-in-law. Ajieh nwa Opiah! My love, hero & the only outstanding lonely voice, in the wilderness. Who always stood for truth, even to his own detriment. A peacemaker, who spread his hands to accommodate others with much love no matter the situation. Ajieh nwadeghi! As you’re fondly called! My daddy and my husband, even at death everybody is testifying about the way u always stood to see that peace prevailed in the family. Aduie! Aduie onye nkem! Aduie brother Ajieh jee nke oma, till we meet to depart no more! We love you sir, but God loves you most!
Mrs. Fidelia C. Opiah
(Sister-in-law)

Thank you for giving me the privilege to call you Dad. I am proud to be your daughter-in-law. The distance was a barrier for you to be part of our daily life, but I enjoyed the little moment we spent together anytime we got together. I miss your jokes and laughter. As a father-in-law, your absence left a deep wound in my heart. It is sad that you are no more with us on earth, but your love and peaceful memories are still our guides. Your endless Love will continue to bind us together as a family, we all love you, but God loves you most. May you enjoy your stay with God. May your perfect soul rest in perfect peace. Once more, I love you.
Edith Ijeoma Opiah
(Daughter-in-law)

Farewell to My Contented Uncle
Ojugbana! Your role in my life was more of a father. You blossomed our humble beginnings with meager resources at your disposal, you lived the very attributes of patience, perseverance, love & contentment that you taught us.
My jolly Papa! Your days as an octogenarian never took the shine off your heart of kindness, goodwill & care for everyone you encounter far near.
I can only say thank you Papa for being there for us through the storm and clear. Adieu Papa, Adieu Ojugbana! Your Iphie bids you farewell with love & representation of the very virtues you passed on to us. Till we meet to part no more, rest on Papa.
Engr. Ifeanyi Opiah (Nephew

I dreaded this day when I would have to pen down a tribute to my own Dad. It was not an exercise that I looked forward to in any way. I have struggled within me so much because each time I tried, my eyes welled up in tears and my nose snuffled, then I would barely be able to see what I’m trying to write. One of the hardest parts has been addressing you in the past tense. It still sends an ache through my heart and I have had to correct myself many times.

You were Emmanuel Ajie Opiah to many people but to me you were Daddy – and you were the embodiment of the full meaning of that word “Daddy” in every good sense of it. To many of my friends and family, I was “Obianuju” but you were the only one that called me “Ujunwa” and you always treated me like a princess. Many a time, you reminded me that I looked so much like your mom.
Memories of your love, protection, and dedication to family are indelibly etched into my mind, right from a very tender age. You taught us so much through what you did. I remember how you would iron my primary and secondary school uniforms every week unfailingly…. Even ironing the socks! I would go on to win the Neatest Student so many times, not because of much of my effort but because of the hard work you put into ironing those uniforms. Even when I eventually went to boarding school, you would come to the school gate about the time school dismissed just to make sure I was ok. So much so, that everyone around then knew you were “Papa Oby”. I will never forget what you told me in the dream and made me promise you three weeks before you died. l just wants to let you know now that, it’s now my lifestyle.

I miss you dearly and I wish I could have spent just one more day, one more hour, one more minute, or just one more second with you. The Scottish proverb says: If wishes were horses, beggars would ride. These wishes were not to be. So, in total submission to the will of the Almighty God, He allowed you to go home.
In a lifetime, one could not finish recounting the many wonderful moments we shared. In this tribute I am limited by time and space, so can only pen down these few lines. These memories, however, will now live on, as you continue to twinkle in our hearts, like the star you are.
Adieu Daddy! Adieu, Ajie!
Mrs.Obianuju Eke. (Daughter)

O death, where is thy sting? My dearest beloved Daddy, Ojunwala (meaning the fearless man)
I cannot express the vacuum your exit has left in my life. I never imagined that I would stop receiving your calls and hearing your voice so soon.
You taught me values: honesty, integrity, and compassion which formed the basis of who I am today.
I learned truth and contentment from you and my departed mom. You always thank GOD daily and taught us to always do the same.
I consider myself blessed and privileged to have had you as my dad. You were so selfless in your dealings, had a heart filled with great love towards God and humanity, always grateful to God. You always considered yourself as the one God is with “Emmanuel”.
You were a strong support system and hardworking. You equally loved the extended Opiah family just as much as you did us because family meant everything to you.
Papa, you never stopped in your encouragement and continuous words of affirmation of my abilities. You were always available to me through thick and thin, as a child and even as an adult. Oh Papa, how can I forget how you took me to school at my university level as an adult? I remember your constant visit to the University with goodie bags packed with provisions and foodstuff with a gentle knock at my door.
Papa, you always call me your mother the reason best known to you, and I’ll miss “Riri” as you fondly call me. Nevertheless, as painful as it gets. I am super grateful to God for the opportunity to share your last years with me, to care for you, to let you know I loved you, and also to have heard you say countless times that you loved me and were proud of me those memories I’ll forever cherish.
May your soul rest in perfect peace. Adieu, Papa!
Rita Opiah. (Daughter)

Chief Emmanuel Ajieh Opiah was different things to different people; friend, brother, cousin, uncle, in-law, nephew, etc.
He was my beloved father! And not an ordinary father at that. He was a very loving and caring yet disciplined father. As a teenager, while assisting him during school holidays at construction setting tiles, he taught me an important lesson. There’s no easy way or shortcut to life and hard and honest work is the only way to go. His wise counsel has remained engraved in my subconscious and kept me going in life.
He was also my friend who wouldn't hesitate to say to me, "UC" (his pet’s name for me) I am proud of you. He always saw the best in everybody, and never was judgmental, even as he remained self-confident.
Papa had a great sense of humor and delighted in creating a happy ambiance at all times, good or bad. He was dedicated to his immediate and extended family, always ready to make sacrifices. He was an exceptional father, humble, kind, contented with whatever God blessed him with, and a generous giver willing to share his little with anyone in need.
He was a caring husband who on returning from work would unfailingly go to his wife, Mrs. Grace Opiah's Canteen to ensure that things were running smooth
It saddens my heart that I did not get the opportunity to say goodbye but I know that He is with the good Lord and united with his beloved wife forever.
Ojuwala, your pleasant memory will remain with me.
I love you and you will forever be missed.
Uchenna Opiah (Son)