My dearest hero, my super role model, Boss and the epitome of dedication in the call to service in God’s vineyard. It is a pity that you cannot continue to be with us forever knowing that life is a triangle of event, the time of Birth, Living and Death. We will continue to remember the memories of the time you spent with us during your sojourn on earth.

You have been a wonderful father and a tutor that has contributed immensely to making me what I am in the Christendom and Cherubim and Seraphim Movement World-Wide . You created a platform for us to serve the Lord with all sense of dedication and with all what we have and you keep reminding us that curse is he who do not do the job of the Lord diligently as expressed in the book of Jeremiah.

Daddy, you are the David of our time, a Christ Soldier per excellence, who believed in the efficacy of prayer and vision emanating from the Spirit of the Living God. You came to the world, saw, fought and conquered in all ramifications. A man who keep having vigil for over 35years daily even when on sick bed and in tribulations. Your effort in the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church Kaduna, Gusau, Makurdi, Benin, Ibadan, Lagos and other parts of Nigeria will continue to remain fresh in the memories of the congregations of these various Churches. You motivated and inspired people in building Cathedrals for the Lord, I am not surprised like the Biblical David that God gave your son the well withal and privilege to build the biggest and most beautiful Cherubim and Seraphim Church on earth.

You are a perfectionist who always say to us that if every unit and member of the church will do their jobs well, Victory District will be another paradise on earth. I will keep remembering your saying that service to God and humanity is primary while work of life or daily work for survival is Secondary. A man who believed that before the Lord, where there is a will, there will always be a way as sanction by God Almighty. You made us to know and have it in our memory that God is a rewarder of those that diligently seek him.

Papa you are not just a Soldier before the Lord but an Organist by all standard. You have immensely mentored choristers that are all over the world evangelizing Christ in their songs and Hymns. You have left behind a Special District as the Lord had promised in your life time and beyond.

You fought the good fight of faith in compliance with the rule of the game and won. Rest in perfect peace in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ till we will meet to part no more.

SP.AP.J.L FASEKOMI

I am not used to commenting about any deceased (not even my parents) simply because opinions are always subjective. It is either we write to impress the deceased family or to take revenge on the departed. Occasionally we do both. But since I must write I decided to restrict myself to the three bases of morality examinations to which Baba Awode had no equal; only after this digression.

The parable of the blind men and an elephant is perfectly relevant to BABA DICKSON ADEKUNLE AWODE. It is a story of a group of blind men, who have never come across an elephant before and who learn and conceptualize what the elephant is like by touching it. Each blind man feels a different part of the elephant's body, but only one part, such as the side or the tusk. They then describe the elephant based on their limited experience and their descriptions of the elephant are different from each other. Consequently, they come to suspect that the other person is dishonest and they come to blows. The moral of the parable is that humans have a tendency to claim absolute truth based on their limited, subjective experience as they ignore other people's limited, subjective experiences which may be equally true. Depending on your relationship with Baba, your description will always fit perfectly to your experience and could cause argument because the other person knows not what you touch. Baba meant different things to different people.

Fidelity-wise, he was a religious leader with no appetite for the female gender. No one ever accused him of ‘tampering’ with any woman, a position where many elders would fail.

Pa Awode never took alcohol for 46 years prior to his demise – not because he couldn’t afford same but in strict adherence to his calling as an apostle of the Most High.

We examine the standard of a religious leader through his disposition to money. Ask any member and he would pass all screening and structiny. A very committed Seraph who was never late to any service until his health started failing him. A “triangular” person – he was either going to church, the factory or his house. Very humorous yet firm, highly disciplined but compassionate. He held vigil (all days) either in the church or his house from 1972 till he became frail.

He belonged to the second generation of Seraphs whose main preoccupation was to wage war against Satan and his cohorts. A gallantry soldier, not prepared to negotiate with the devil. He would always say the devil is a thief and he comes only to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10).

We had engaged in several disagreements on principle (while he was a soldier, I remain a diplomat), and unknowingly to me, the moral bar he raised for me was higher than that of others. By the time the two of us reconciled and came to this understanding, he had already begun his journey towards home. For me, if he didn’t make heaven, surely, no one is there.

I will sincerely miss this man of God who taught me

• Honesty
• Moral uprightness
• Punctuality
• Righteousness, and
• Pursuit of Paradise even if it means going all alone

JOYOUSLY JOIN THE HEAVENLY SERAPHS, WHERE UNLIMITED PRAISES IS THEIR SERVICE TO THE LORD.

Your son

SOLA OPADERE

Dear grandfather,

I love and cherish the few moment I spent with you. Your smile was made of sunshine and your heart was pure gold, you were very humble and loving, selfless and kind.

You drew our family close together you always ensure that there is unity and love.

You are a great adviser and a counselor; a giver that never retires. A strong man, a man of vigor; even when things did not feel right, you were always optimistic about everything.

There are people in this world that make it a better place simply by been in it and you are one of them.

You were a perfect example of hard work and dedication; you poured your heart into everything you did.

You were reliable trust worthy and just simply amazing.

It is sad that you departed but we know you are resting at the bosom of the Lord and you love us dearly. I just want you to know that you’re very special and you hold a place in my heart.

I am richly blessed to have you as a grandfather because you are a great example to us all, love you.

Continue to rest in the bosom of the lord my beloved grandfather.

Your Granddaughter

ADURAMIGBA AWODE

I had a wonderful grandfather, that’s and the way it will always be. But take heed, because he is still keeping an eye on all of us, so lets make sure he will like what he sees. His life was a blessing, his memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. You have always been my hero, you’ve always been my pride, you’ve always given me so much love and shown what’s deep inside, my anchor of love my source of strength, and my well of wisdom. Thank you for loving me, cause I will always love you

God saw you getting tired, and a cure was not to be, so he put his arms around you and whispered ‘’Come to me’’. With tearful eyes we watched him suffer, and saw him slowly fade away. Although we loved him dearly, we could not make him stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hardworking hands put to rest, God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best. I think in his own way he will be able to show all of us how important we all were to him. We may no longer see him but we’ll always have these special moments we shared with him. He will always have a special place in my heart. I am thankful that I knew a special man like my grandfather. God only takes the best

I will always miss him. But I have so many wonderful memories of you, I’ll always think of you with a smile. You were a humble man, you never liked to be center of attraction, in life and now in death, he wouldn’t want us to focus on the sadness of his death, but instead focus on the happiness in our lives. You would want us to appreciate each other and our future. He lived a life that was full of joy and happiness, he loved to laugh, his smile was charming, I realize that it was not the events in his life that were extraordinary but how he faced them. He faced life with intelligence, courage, faith and wit. Everyone knew who he was and everyone knew they could rely on him for any reason. Our family grew closer because of him and my grandmother. There was always this music when he was around, there was laughter, there was happiness and everyone acted as if they didn’t have a care in the world he was in the room. And will always miss him for that.

But I have wonderful memories to hang to. You were my role model, and a friend. Your guidance and love will carry me through to the end of my days. I love you Grandpa, until we met again.

Your Granddaughter

Gbemisola Awode

Before I start, I would just like to say that I know my Grandpa is looking down on us all right now thinking one of his most used and favorite phrases, “What an outfit!” I think the number of people present here today is indicative of the kind of man my grandfather was – caring, generous, and a family man.

Tuesday, December 18, 2018 was the day I lost someone very dear to me. My grandfather was by far one of the most amazing people I had the honor and pleasure of knowing. Even more so, I am proud to say that I am related to this man. My grandfather was always the happiest when he was surrounded by his family. When I was younger, I used to think that loving someone meant that you would cry when he passed away. Now that I’m older, I realize that loving someone is enjoying the time you spend together, the memories you make, and cherishing those memories for a lifetime. With either definition, past or present, I think it is obvious that we all loved my grandpa very much to this day (and we will continue to love him).

Growing up, my grandfather was the life of our merriment and my joyfulness. He was someone everybody loved talking to and always wanted to get a piece of advice from. In the place where he lived, everyone knew who he was and everyone always knew they could rely on him for any reason. Our family grew closer because of him and my grandmother (aka. the dynamic duo). There was always music when he was around, his epic style of playing the keyboard, there was laughter, there was happiness and everyone acted as if they didn't have a care in the world when he was in the room. The second thing I learned is that he loved my grandmother with all his heart. Never have I seen two people so dedicated to each other even after more than 50 years of marriage! The dedication and love they showed to each other and in their marriage is something to be envious of.

Many of us in the family were inspired by him to learn music and musical instruments, such as the piano, the flute, the keyboard, and many other instruments. He was always so kind to me; letting me run around in the house all day. Sometimes, he would let me scream and yell for as long as I was able, and he always gave me the best hugs. Granted, he knew how to give stern signals and corrections whenever he needed to, but he did so out of love, of kindness and of respect for me and for my safety whenever he did this. He taught me about gratitude and never taking anything for granted. He told me to always shoot for the stars and live in a way that made me happy.

Around him, I never once questioned my worth, my talent, my beauty or my purpose. He always had something to say to brighten my spirit and always something to say when I wanted nothing more than to give up. He pushed me like he pushed everyone else in our family and we are all indebted to him for that.

When I was younger, I spent the night at my grandparents’ house on a regular basis. My grandma would go to bed early, and my grandpa and I would be up all night watching TV together. Nights like these will always be engraved into my memory as some of the best times with my grandpa, although some of these times were the time I was between seven (7) or ten (10) years old.

When we feel bored grandpa would always find ways to make us happy. He takes us to “fun city” which then was the usual or actual boredom-eradicator! Thanks to our loving grandpa!

I hope that my reflections today have shed a light on how wonderful a person my grandpa was and how lucky I am to have had these special years with him. I know that my words here today could never do justice to the type of man he was or how we all feel about him, but I hope that when you leave today you will always remember to cherish the memories and never forget the happiness and laughter he brought to everyone who knew him. My grandfather was a teacher of history, although he did not know it. It is history that is still living, as we compose its elemental parts, as we create our world in our own time, linked together and stronger for it.

I thank my grandfather for his lessons, I love him, and I honor him. And as befits a teller of history, I shall not forget him. I love and miss my grandfather and it still hurts whenever I think about him, but I'm glad I knew him and I'm more proud to say I am a part of his family. In memory of Dr Apostle Dickson Awode, thank you for everything you did for us and thank you for always being there when I needed you.

Your Grandson

Akinola Bobominijesu Padimiloluwa David Olajesukiitan

There are people in this world that make it a better place simply being in it. And Grandpa, you were one of them. You were indeed a precious gem, one like no other, a blessing to your generation and everyone who knew you. You were the perfect example of a Husband, a Father, a Mentor, a Teacher, a Friend, a Companion, a Lover, and a Fighter.

Ever since, I could tell my right hand from left, I have seen your unimaginable and extremely admirable devotion to God. I remember you usually prayed and anointed the whole house every single morning.

Your love for working on the piano, playing the keyboard, and singing hymns still keeps me in awe.

You were also an obsessive giver! That, I loved and cherished. You had the largest and bravest of hearts. You always attended to everyone's need in whatever way you could.

So loving and caring, you disciplined with a beautiful mind. I love you Grandpa and I know one day we shall meet again to part no more.

Your Granddaugter

Akinola Bolajesutito Deborah

I thank the Lord Almighty my father and my God for giving us his beloved son who is my Grandpa.

He walked through life touching the lives of everyone he met.

A Grandpa whose care and concern is for everyone.

A dangerous giver and a great adviser

Loving and adorable

Pleasant and easy going

One who never really grew old;

A man to behold. A Grandpa like no other.

Indeed God, our Heavenly Father, gave us a taste of heaven by giving us my Grandpa.

A lover of God and his people.

A teacher, our very own disciplinarian

A man so dedicated to serving, you could see through his humility

Grandpa, I love and cherish you even for the few years you spent with me your grandchild

You've been a great example and a great Leader to follow

There's too much to say but too little to write

You live on forever, that I know

Rest, our beloved...

Till we meet again.

Your Granddaughter

Akinola Bolanlejesu Rebecca

My grandpa was a very generous and kind man, he really loved giving to those in need no matter how many times you come to him, he will always give you. I remember those times he would take us his grandchildren out to “fun-city” even at his old age. He gave me hope when no one did. He used to say “Jola, Jola, my architect!” The encouragement meant a lot to me. I pray that God bless me with more people like my grandpa. Whenever he called me in school he would pray for me and tell me to face my studies so I would make it in life. And now I think that my grandpa was sent by God to put smile on the faces of people. I remember way back then when I was very young that he would say “Up, Down, Up, Down,” and I could see so much joy in his eyes. He loved children so much. I thank God he was my grandpa. Thank you grandpa for making lovely memories with me. I love you and I miss you so much grandpa, but I know that you are resting in the bosom of Our Lord Jesus Christ in heaven and a time will come when we will meet to part no more. Love you.

Your Granddaughter

Monjolajesu Akinola

Grand Pa, you always gave me N1,500, you buy gala, meat pie for me.  You bought bicycle for me on my birthday.  Will u come back home?  My Daddy said you won’t come back that you are staying with Jesus.  I know you will be with Jesus because you give people money, you share things.  You, Daddy MD and Big Daddy (Bros Tunji Awode) will also stay with Jesus because they share things like Grand Pa.  Daddy MD used to give me N2,000 while Big Daddy gives me N1,000.  Satan people don’t share things and they don’t give people money.  I want you to come back and buy another bicycle for me because the one Big Daddy bought for me is spoilt on the wheels.  GrandPa is the best person in the world.  I miss Grand Pa o.

Your Grandson,

Gerrard Oluwajuwon Bamtefa 

Grandpa, you are the most amazing person I have ever met, your heart of gold is the rarest and most beautiful. You always put God first before yourself or any other person, I remember how you would always frown and scold me for not coming to the morning devotion, also how you would always force me to go to church despite my disapproval. I always taught all of these were acts of wickedness but as I grew I came to understand that you didn’t want to be selfish with the salvation you found, you wanted to take everybody along

Your fatherly love that scolds me whenever I decide to be stubborn and not go to school and mostly when I wear black but still you embrace me when I decide not to greet you. You always encourage me to pursue my dreams of becoming a medical doctor you will always tell me ‘stay away from boys for they are the biggest distraction, read your book, and always remember to pray’ these words kept me till now and gave me the greatest motivation. You loved everybody and never neglected anyone.

Your integrity that never wavers even in the presence of persecution, your ‘no nonsense’ quality makes you a good example to emulate, you are a fearless and brave leader, you are like a mother hen that protect its chick, I am tangled between calling you a mother or father, you are all in one. You take satisfaction in the littlest things and rarely got angry.Your ever amusing humour makes astonishes me, they make me laugh even when I promise not to, my personal comedian.

You have a very big heart, your devotion to giving is remarkable, you always give even when you have little, you made it your way of life, you never leave anyone out when giving, I am always excited when you go out even when you don’t take me along because I am sure you will never come home empty handed, you never made us lack anything money can buy, you always provided our individual need

Your forgiving spirit makes you divine, you always forgive me for my silliest offences, you were not capable of keeping a grudge you always poured out your mind even its hurts the offender. I will never forget the spark in your eyes and your contagious captivating smile when you call me ‘my accountant’. The mesmerizing way you play the keyboard never seize to amaze me, I am going to miss that a lot. You made my childhood memory an eventful one, I always pity those with no grandfather, they missed a lot fun.

I will forever miss you and the tears will not stop, you have gained a special place in my heart, your memories can’t be put to words but my consolation is that you were a great man and you lived a Christ-like life. Your life is a loving memory, you were really one in a million, the best of the best and the rarest gem. The heavens should rejoice because they received another angel and the stars should be prepared for they now have a rival to shine greater than them.

It is a great honour to know you, I am proud to call you my grandfather, you will forever be remembered. Till we meet again, rest in perfect peace in the bosom of Christ

Your Granddaugther

Aliu Gbekeloluwa Elizabeth

Thanks for being a unique, gentle And a selfless man that you were. You’re a man I love and cherish dearly. I admire your strength, courage and agility. Your wit and good humor was always intact. My grandpa always took an interest in people he met and his Happy demeanor made him a wonderful person to know, he was patient and generous with his time and affection. The moral you instilled in me will always be evergreen, you’ve been a true source of inspiration, embodiment of strength and a source of joy to me. I will miss you grandpa so much and I will treasure the part of the lord you taught  us  and the memory of you forever. Till we meet again sleep on grandpa!.

Your Granddaughter

Aanu Awode

Grandpa, a loving and a patient man, a generous and quiet gentleman, an outstanding father, and amazing friend.

I can never thank you enough for all the love and joy you have shared with us. A special man he was. A father to all. Your passion for God's work is unbelievably incredible, we will never forget you. 

You will always remain in our hearts and we pray that soul shall rest in perfect peace. Amen.

Your Granddaughter

Monisola Awode

Grandpa, you were an inspiration to everyone around you. You were humble, loving, kindhearted, peaceful, caring and also a strong believer in Jesus Christ. You were also a father, role model and a teacher to so many. You were an encouragement to me, you were selfless and wanted to best for all of us.

Your determination and dedication to God's work was so elevating and it made everyone around you to be very proud of you. I thank God for creating a man like you. You were truly heaven sent. Grandpa, you will never be forgotten. 

You were a legend, you will not be mourned but celebrated for you spent your 81 years in love, peace and happiness and departed this sinful world to rest in peace. Amen,

Your Granddaughter

Oyinade Awode

My grandfather was a great man who lived a remarkable life. When I think about him, the first few words that come to mind are: hardworking, loving, wise and full of integrity. It is impossible to truly encapsulate just how amazing of a person he was.

Anyone who had the privilege of being around Grandpa knew of his generosity, humility and selflessness. His smiles, happy demeanour and warmth he extended to everyone is something I will cherish forever.

He was an icon for me. He was philosophical in his approach to life, hardly displaying anger or impatience. An incredible trait that my father also possesses, which inspires me greatly. He was truly a wonderful person to know.

Granpa, we will always miss you and love you because there will never be another one to replace you in our hearts. We will all treasure the wonderful memories we have shared with you and the impact you have made on our lives. We may have lost you here with us but heaven has gained another angel.

Grandpa, to your grandchildren, you were a beaconing light. Although I cannot see you, your love is forever in my heart.

Your Granddaughter                        

EBUNOLUWA AWODE

A part of us just left and a lot of us has to be said about the good qualities he portrayed when he was still alive. 

Where can I start from, Grandpa was always happy to see me when I visited or got the chance to see him, and he was also a true man of God who never took anything pertaining to God for granted. He loves and cares for his children and grandchildren wanting nothing else but the best for us in life.

He was the only one I called Grandpa but now that he is gone, I have no one to call grandpa anymore. He is not with us but I believe he is resting in a peaceful place.

Your Grandson

Ayodeji Awode

“My gem” that is who you were and who you will forever be to me.It breaks my heart to accept that you are truly gone.However, knowing that you are asleep brings joy to my spirit.Grandpa, I would choose you again and again, over and over, if I have the chance to.You taught me so much verbally, through your actions and even in your silence.I am grateful for each moment I spent with you.You are my hero, you were strong and brave.I remember your hilarious speech when you were on your sick bed.That taught me something about you, it showed me that your faith in God was not based on the highs and rosy moments alone, even in times of trouble, Grandpa you were joyful in your maker.

Ever since I have grown to recognise you as my grandpa, I have known you to be a prayer warrior.You stay awake all night, moving in and out of each person’s room, muttering words of prayers, reducing the speed of the fan in my bedroom and starting another night prayer session in your alone place is an incredible and uncommon grace from above that I envy.Watching and hearing you from under the ironing table as you ask the people at home if I have left for church or not was one of the ways you made me hunger for Christ.

The way you serenade the Almighty with your musical talent and piano skill is one of the things I hope to do as well.Your giving spirit is another dimension I cannot phantom.Most times you give out what is internal advantage of your soft heart to get a few notes from you not realising that you know our every trick and still play along is priceless.Your love is pure, you chastise and embrace.You correct and pamper.Words are not enough to highlight your sweetness.Thank God for the opportunity I have to be your granddaughter.You worked tirelessly, you fought a good fight and you deserve the rest you have now.I will miss the way you call me “my baby”.Rest on my gem.I love you.

YOUR FIRST GRANDCHILD

OYINDAMOLA HAMEL ALIU

My wonderful father in-law passed on to glory at a young age of 81years.

When I heard of his passing there was this feeling that overwhelmed me, that feeling of assurance that he is with his Maker in heaven.

When I reminisce about grandpa as he was fondly called by us, I just wonder …….. Honestly he is a rare gem

Grandpa was a true believer of Christ; he was a loving husband and an amazing father to his children and a fun loving grandpa to all of his grandchildren.

He was a father to many because he loves having people around him, to many; he was a Counselor, confidant, hero, mentor and above all a helper in many ways.

I will miss your beautiful never ending stories of Gusau, civil war and all over Nigeria.

Your advice are like words on marble.

Baba mi sun re ooooo

Eyinju Oluwa, ka pade l’ese Jesu.

Your Daughter-In-Law                                                                                            FUNMILAYO AWODE

Blessed are the Meek

Yorubas will say: “Bi a ba r’erin, ka so wipe a r’erin; Ajanaku koja mo ri nkan firi!” (Yoruba has the adage: “Say you saw an elephant when you have the opportunity to see one; an elephant is more than what you will say I saw the thing pass by me!”). I met with you sir and I knew who the meek should look like! Beginning with the fact that you were a qualified and reputable electrical engineer who anchored proceedings from the days of ECN (Electricity Corporation of Nigeria) through the days of “ageless” NEPA (National Electric Power Authority) till when you retired with unique credentials of honesty, probity, sincerity, credibility and a very high level of integrity, unlike some in public office. You served the nation Nigeria risking your life, with your family, around the nation because of your high sense of duty, yet, a family man. You were there both for your family and for the nation in the East, the Middle Belt, Up North, down South, the then Mid-West, and also in Lagos where you finally retired from active service. With your wealth of experience, one holy day, I met you smiling, and since then, you have infested me with joyfulness and I cannot stop smiling too. Inside you was the chemical of meekness you poured out on all your children and when you sampled it on me, I could not but enjoy what you enjoy; the spirit of meekness, wherein it is written: “Blessed are the Meek for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matt. 5) You achieved what very few can ever achieve because you were a very meek man. That is one beautiful lesson I picked up in you. You were an electrical engineer of immense reputation that served everyone selflessly and accommodated everyone even to a fault. That is meekness!

Weep Not Child

I craved for a partner and I met your daughter. Your smile gave me assurance, an assured smile I tagged: “Weep Not Child!” I married her with your consent February 13, 1999 and since then I felt no sorrows. Yes, you made me have no sorrows because of that assurance smile. You gave me assurance in the journey from day one I came into the family! Having been married to a lady in Delphine Olubunmi Modupe AWODE (Nee Adeshigbin) for almost 60years yourself, I had a good example from you to be with Oluwafunmilayo Comfort Aduragbemi AKINOLA (Nee Awode) for as long as we are alive. You gave me an example of One Man, One Wife. It means a lot to me. Your formula; the Weep-Not-Child smile was hope and assurance enough for me. And you really helped me to understand the formula. If I did not follow your step, would I not be considered a bastard in the family? Or where will I say I got my own example from if I must be in the Awode family? I like your style, grandpa. Sincerely, grandpa, I love your example, and I will continue in your technique of One Man One Wife with the affectionate Weep-Not-Child smile!

That even reminds me of your stand with me in year 2001 in my secular walk as a physician when evil ones cornered me and wanted me off this world. You stood by me when enemies gathered to swallow me up. I looked all around me and for 24hours of more than 2weeks, I saw you every time everyday by my side, coming and standing with me in the odds and oddities of life! You just kept saying with your smiles: “Weep not my child; humans are like that! Even when you try to help them, they may still nail you to the cross!”

The Lion King

David the King of Israel had a kingdom. You had. David was a Shepherd. You were. David was a Father and was a grandfather. You are. King David was the Sweet Psalmist of Israel. You were a Pianist and Choir Master of The Cherubim & Seraphim Church Movement for many years. David had a Solomon. God gave you an Emmanuel of Chemstar Paints. David was beloved of God and departed this world with several children and grandchildren. God loved you grandpa and we feel it. But one thing that David did not have that you had:JESUS of Nazareth as your loved One & Saviour.

Every lion is king only when he has a kingdom. You were a family man and more! You reigned in a kingdom God formed for you. The kingdom never fell apart but expanded and grew. Many were its offshoot, like I am with my family. There are several kingdoms under you. Divine Blessing was an offspring of your immediate Victory Chapel Kingdom. I cannot mention all the other offspring and offshoots; yet, your kingdom was intact as we speak! Grandpa, you were a Lion in your kingdom and you truly reigned well. Certainly, in the theatrical Lion King cartoon, there will always be a Puma, a Lala, a Mofasa, etc. but you handled all in your kingdom calmly while your reign lasted. Adieu, Grandpa Engineer Most Special Apostle Dickson Adekunle Awode, the Lion King of the Ijebu-Omu Kingdom.

Things Fall Apart

Beside you on your bed in 2003, I had a dream. I heard God say He has added to your life 15years like He did for Biblical King Hezekiah. When at 6.20am Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2018, God reminded me again what happened about you, I remembered what the book Things Fall Apart meant. Was it true? Can it be like that? Why should it be? I wondered until I could no longer hold the stream back. Things fall apart! And the centre could not hold! I wanted to protest to the Almighty why another 15years cannot again be borrowed to continue with you a little more! He explained it to me and I agreed with Him. A general goes home on the battlefield after he has justified his mission. You truly justified your leadership roles in the home-front and in His Church. You have gone home to rest. Adieu, lovable General D.A. Awode! You are unique among many generals, your like. We see you as indeed the ideal generalissimo of both the natural family and the spiritual family. We know and we are sure the Lord you served while you were here with us will make sure the centre of your battalion soldiers in the spiritual and the physical folds hold!

Akuna Matata!

What a lovely African phrase to apply to you, grandpa! “Akuna Matata” is Swahili phrase of “No Worries.” We are not worried grandpa. Your smiles showed us not to worry. Your ways of life described to us your wishes after your departure that we are not to worry. Your style of leadership, of discipline, of friendship and of truthfulness explained to all of us your wish for all your loved ones after your departure. That, this world, is a free world needing no worries and no sorrows. Because of you, grandpa, we are not going to sorrow or to worry. Your style will be our style. Your ways of life will be our ways of life. Your Heavenly Father shall be our Heavenly Father. The way you served Him is the exact way we will serve Him too. You served Him till the very end. We even kept you in a place to rest at the age of 81 and you still got us thinking…that can we successfully keep this man from Church! Akuna Matata, Grandpa! You left us a legacy that once we have God by our side, we must not worry about a thing. Grandpa, Akuna Matata! We seize to worry. Thank you for the examples in the home, at work, in the world, and in His Church, that, anywhere anytime, we are not to worry!

And The Man Died

Only the one that is not man enough fears death. On Dec 16, you smiled. On Dec 17, you smiled again and made us to laugh. By your side were your daughters and they could not help laughing. You knew you were closer home when you made them laugh. As caring daughters, they asked you: “Daddy, would you like your favourite meal?” Your answer was emphatic because you knew you were closer home. A few hours after you declined the meal only to start your journey to the great beyond, they remember that you really knew it was time! You smiled going home. I saw it on your face. I remembered those your responses. You always respond the way real men respond in situations. Goodbye. Good night. Grandpa, I am greeting you. Hope, you will always respond….How I wish you can just respond like you did few moments before His Chariot took you home. Whether I hear you now or not again, all the same, Grandpa Adekunle Awode, Farewell, Good Night, and Happy Night Rest until we meet to part no more!

Oh Happy Day!

Tuesday, Dec 18, 2018! Oh, Happy Day! When Jesus took Grandpa Home! Oh Happy Day. Grandpa, I miss you. I will miss the smiles. I will miss the calmness with which you talk. I will miss your strength to care for everyone around you. I will miss your passion to take good care of your family members. I will miss your unique attitude of Family Devotion. I will miss your earnestness to worship The Only Wise God in Spirit and in Truth. I will miss your concern about the weak. But I will always remember the legacies! Oh, yes! I will remember all you stand for in the Family and in God’s Church. You were for peace. I will remember that. You were a Monogamist as commanded by Our Lord Jesus. I will remember that. You were a Teetotaller. I won’t copy someone else but you. I will remember you taught us not only to give and give and give again, but also to forgive and forgive and forgive again and again and again. That is why so many are around you because your light shines so brightly even after your departure to the great beyond! Oh Happy Day…Grandpa, the day you left for Home, happily! Goodbye and good night, lively and lovely Grandpa Engineer Most Special Apostle Dickson Adekunle Olufemi AWODE.

Your Son-In-Law                                                                                                      Dr. Obafemi Sunday Abraham Akinwumi AKINOLA

Daddy, you called me to the service of God at a very critical time in the history of this Church.You gave me a platform to exhibit the potentials God has deposited in me.You told me many things about people’s real attitudes which I am discovering after your demise.You are truly a Special Apostle and a God’s General.I doubt if our generation could have the zeal and strength you threw into worshiping God.You would have wanted to be probably die in the church if nature could design it that way.

Your life, soul, energy revolves round the Church system.You struggled with nature to attend the last harvest which was not granted to you. I am happy I was with you in your last moments but you tricked me into believing that you will make it back home.You told me and I quote “E see daadaa o” meaning “Do it well o”.Your giving nature is out of this world.You have sown into peoples’ lives and put smiles unto many faces.The grief in peoples’ heart today is not about your demise but the hopelessness in their sustenance of life which was assured when you were alive.

I know I have lost a big support in the assignment you gave me but I am confident that the Lord God Jehovah that you served in your entire life will be my pillar and make me succeed in Jesus Name.Rest on Baba. I am sure you made it to heaven.I missed you so much.

Your Son-In-Law                                                                                                      Pastor Rotimi Bamtefa 

Grandpa, your glorious exit to the bosom of Almighty God has created a vacuum in the family. Sincerely, since I came into this family over a decade ago, I have not seen a father like you, who is disciplined, loving, caring, easy-going, friendly, selfless, spirit-filled, Bible-based, heavenly focused and highly accommodating to family members, relatives, in-laws, friends, church members and other people. 

While alive, you were dedicated and committed to God's work and His people. Truly, I am going to miss you a lot for your unconditional love, constant presence and participation especially during your grandchildren's celebrations. 

Your prayers and words of encouragement has been a fuel to our family's vehicle. It is just that we do not have any power over physical death. 

Daddy, I love you but Jesus loves you more, keep resting in peace till we meet to part no more.

Your Daughter-In-Law                                                                                                                  TOSIN MARTHA AWODE

Reminiscences of the many facets of a loving, caring, God fearing and affectionate father. I was shocked and could not fight back tears that day 18th December 2018 Tuesday morning to be precise when my doctor in law called to inform me of my father’s passage to the great beyond.

He will greatly be missed for his fatherly role he played, all through my primary and secondary school days my beloved father was my lesson teacher, he usually gets back from work by 4 to 4:30pm after which he takes his lunch then school lesson starts. He was a teacher who ensured that Arithmetic as it was called then to become an easy subject throughout without pain.

He has a way of making figures look simple and this helped me a great deal in my academic progression. Then came the era of daddy, this was marked by strict pampering it was the period of upward social mobility and comfort. It was as it were the season of oil flowing down from Aaron’s head to his whole body, academics materials that was needed was promptly met, strict Christian and Biblical principles were never compromised. His rock solid faith in Christ could not Faulted.

The love he has for his family was impeccable as he shared the abundance of God to all even as far as his wife and extended family. His service to God was with everything he was blessed with, he never held anything back from GOD, Even the challenges he encountered while in active service to his fatherland were met with absolute faith and believe in God and as such were delivered from them all. I would never have asked for a better father, a disciplinarian that would never settle for less. His love for God and how he planted our children feet on the path of righteousness and how he taught us to know and love God and also pay our tithe to the last cent marvels me.

The Grandpa season was a different experience altogether, his joy was infectious when he carried his grandchildren, he rejoiced in the realization of the fulfillment of GOD’s promise in his life. Growing up was fun because we lived a comfortable life because he was a top staff of the now defunct Nigeria Electricity Power Authority (NEPA) and I was opportune to live in over seven (7) states of the federation courtesy of NEPA transfer policy, while growing up my Father will take us to the cinema to watch films on celluloid, he would also take me to stadium to watch soccer, despite his busy schedule officially and spiritually he still has time for his children.

Baba Mi, I will miss the world of you, there will be nobody to call my mobile number and remind me of Tuesday’s vigil, there will be nobody to call me Dipo, Dipo, Dipo Okunrin Meta !!!. Daddy you are God’s indescribable gift to humanity and what you stood for was nothing short of the will of God. Baba Mi you were a great fighter and you fought and overcome several obstacle that came your way but that fateful day was just the day of the lord. Daddy memories of you and legacies that you left behind lives and those are the things, I hold on to now that will keep me going. My father is indeed a soldier of Christ, The Jesus Christ of Awode descendants.

Daddy, please always look out for your little boy, knowing that I need you now more than ever before. May your gentle ,energetic, respectful , dedicated , kind , homely and God fearing soul continue to rest in the lord till we meet to path no more.

Your Son,

OLADIPUPO SAMSON AWODE

My Gem, my counselor, loving, compassionate, the best dad anyone could ever have. If wishes were horses I would wish you to live for eternity, but I know there is an eternity to share in Christ Jesus.

Daddy, I can never forget your slogan “Ti esu ni lati gb’ogun, ti Oluwa ni lati s’egun.” Which means “It is of the devil to raise battles and afflict, but it is of our God to give victory.”

You were a man of victory. Everything about you says victory. Little wonder your 81st birthday was on Tuesday (Ojo Isegun). You departed this world on a Tuesday (Ojo Isegun), and I remember the last morning devotion we had after the prayers, you said “ogun ti se” meaning “The Battle is over,” that is, we have victory. You always saw victory ahead of a battle.

You gave me the most important things in life; the fear and knowledge of God, good and sound education; you taught me the value of giving and showing love to others.

You discipline with a large and loving hearts, you loved while you corrected. You are a man of valor and vigor, the strongest man that I ever know.

You were a jolly man full of fun and laughter even few hours before your passing you were still making everybody laugh (your sense of humor never left you).

Your love for children and everyone around you, your giving obsession never failed to amaze me.

I can remember the good old days, when I rush out to the living room to remove your shoes and socks and put your legs on the stool as soon as you get back from the office.

The good old days when you come with bags of Fan ice cream and cartons of biscuits to my elementary school on my birthdays.

The good old days when you put me on your lap and I call you my younger brother (Emi ni Egbon Daddy).

I can remember the good old days when you take us to the National Theatre to see movies of Ade-Love, Ogunde, Baba Sala on celluloid.

The good old days when you took me to school and went through the stress of registering me in each school as we were transferred from one state to another.

The good old days when you took us out to the beach and amusement parks during every festive period.

The good old days when you brought out our prayer gowns and iron them all while we do house chores.

The good old days when we run after your car on Sunday morning to meet up with you for Sunday services. Your compassion for others is awesome; you go out of your way to make others comfortable. You usually drop elders and members of the church before you take your family home.

Your service, love and devotions to things of God were beyond my comprehension.

Your love for hymns and playing the piano was your passionate way of worship which inspired me and built my ardency for hymns too. A true worshiper you were!

Daddy, the few hours to your departure are still crystal clear in my memory. That fateful night, I held your hand and was rubbing it to keep it warm thinking it was the air conditioner that was too much, I never knew it was the cold hands of death that was slowly taking your hands away from me.

I never for a minute imagined in my wildest dreams that I will not see you smiling by the next morning.

You are the kind of father a child will wish to live forever. Even at Forty (40) years of age, I was still your little girl, and I loved it. I did not enter the world through your body, but I entered the world through your heart. The bond we shared was unlike any other connection.

Thank you for falling in love with mum, your darling Delphine Modupe Awode, the one you have been with for Fifty Seven (57) years. You were the perfect man for her!

Thank you for showing me that news headlines are not the norm; men can actually love women faithfully and unconditionally for a lifetime.

Thank you for providing me with a never ending sense of physical safety, emotional security and spiritual fortification.

Thank you for teaching me the importance of humility and the remarkable power of emotional and financial generosity.

Like a verse in the lyrics of the special number we sang on your 81st Birthday, exactly 3 weeks before you passed into glory, “IN CHRIST ALONE” which says:

“No power of hell, no scheme of man,

Can ever pluck me from his hand

Till he returns, or calls me home

Here in the power of Christ I stand.”

Indeed Daddy, no power of hell, no scheme of man, no trial or temptation, not principality or power, not heights or depths was able to separate or pluck you from his hand. (Rom. 8:39). Indeed He called you home Himself and in His (Christ) power you stood even unto the end.

If I continue from now to the end of time, words will fail me to say the things you lived to achieve, the lives you impacted, the legacy you left behind and the exceptional love, care and spiritual wisdom you passed unto me.

Daddy, you came, you saw and you conquered like the scripture says, “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us (Rom. 8:37)

And like Apostle Paul said in II Tim. 4:7 “You have fought a good fight, you have finished your course, and you have kept the fight, and I know there is laid up for you a crown of Righteousness, which the Lord the Righteous Judge shall give you at that day”.

A-D-I-E-U DEAR DADDY

Rest in the bosom of Our Lord till we meet to part no more

Mrs. Aduragbemi Akinola

Younger Daughter

It’s like a dream, but truly he is gone, never to be seen again. My dear beloved, caring and priceless dad, full of life. “Oh death where is thy sting, oh grave where is thy victory”

Iku, oro re da, isa oku isegun re da.

C & S 

My soul gives praises unto the lord

Wonderful king, who sought and found one

Bell of praise, will jingle around the world

Proclaiming the praise of almighty

Chorus:Oh lord, praises be unto thee

For thy grace by which I was called

Lord Jesus uphold me to the end

That I may with your reign thee above.

Indeed, the lord upheld him to the later part of his life on heart. Hmmm, my father, my mentor, my teacher, my first love, my world, a disciplinarian with passion.

My birth brought him so much joy and happiness, being the first daughter after two boys, thus they refer to me as his “mother”. Growing up with daddy was beautiful and splendid fun.

As a teacher, he taught me how to read and write with my queen premier.

I go up

Up I go

Am I to go up

Learning with daddy was fun but rough especially for me being the first daughter, with any silly mistake daddy pulls my cheek saying his favorite and only insult “silly ass”.

Daddy’s devotion to God and commitment to God’s people was astonishing, outstanding and exceptional which he passed on to his children forcefully we wake up by 6am for morning devotion daily and so Saturday’s after breakfast we study the bible everyone was expected to come with their “book of bible story”. Daddy was a prayer warrior and an ambassador of Christ; by 12am in the night satisfying the whole house room by room after which he starts praying for is children and grandchildren one after the other. He taught us to be steadfast I our faith and encouraged us to walk in the way of the lord and to rely on God alone in times of trouble.

Daddy was so caring and loving, a very wonderful father, whenever mummy is in trance, he cooks, take care of us and prepares us for school, the weekend for us was full of fun, he takes us to the national theatre to watch movies, kings way and Leventis to shop. Whenever he goes out he always bring something for us, he never comes home empty handed. Daddy comes to our room in the night to check if everything was okay, he put on the light if it is dark when NEPA is off and reduces the A/C when it is cold. Daddy loves everyone around him; he puts a smile on everyone’s face by giving. He goes extra mile to please everybody even when it is inconvenient for him, even on the sick bed daddy calls people to see how they are faring and gives them money.

Daddy was a large heart to a fault, as husband he cares for his wife dearly. All through my life I have never seen daddy raise his hand on his wife he is the perfect husband for his wife, a man worthy of emulating, he rarely gets angry at her and his very patient with her even when she troubles him.

Daddy was never a party to disobedience, arrogance immorally and disrespect, you dare not use fowl languages in my father’s house.

Down memory lane, I can’t forget when we travelled to Ilorin seeking admission for me, your struggles and your troubles on your children makes you a one in a million daddy. If there is a father’s version “who sat and watched my infant head” etc.

I will gladly sing it for you because you are a super doper father.

I remember the joy on your face when I had your first grandchild, you love her so much that when you come back from work, you rock her and sing her lullaby till she sleeps and while you sing nobody dares to make a sound that can wake her up.

Also, while daddy was working as a NEPA officer, he was loved by all, he worked tirelessly and was dedicated to his work. He had strong repulsion to bribe and never supported it.

Daddy, the story of my life is incomplete without you.I love and cherish you a lot if there is anything more you could do to make me a greater person, with God on our side, you would have done it. You were always ready and willing to do more to ensure that my happiness was suitable if I’m opportune to choose a father again and again I would choose you.

Daddy, the love you extend to my children cannot be quantified. Your memory lingers on till end of time. You were a wonderful father cherished in all ramification. If I had the opportunity to make just one choice it will be going back to life.

“Haa!!! How are the mighty fallen”. Tears are rolling down my cheeks as well I write daddy thank for everything “The Sunday, Sunday Daraprim tablets to prevent Malaria. Thanks for waking us up in cold harmattan in the north when going for length period morning service. Emotion can’t allow me go further.

I don’t know why God took you sooner. “am hoping to see you give out your first grandchild out in marriage (Oyindamola). Hmmmmmm, however, in all things, we must give thanks to God Almighty. He giveth and taketh at will, who are we to question Him. He is the Almighty Father, the creator of Heaven and earth. To you be all glory, praise and adoration. You alone be highly exalted. Thanks you for all you have done and will still do

Thank you for the life of your dear son Dickson Adekunle Adefemi Awode. A life well spent and worthy of emulation. A glorious life. The vacuum is indeed humongous but I am consoled by the fact that you resting in the bossom of the Lord Jesus. You fought the good fight of faith and you have won the race. You have indeed finished well.

Love you daddy, even in death will always love till end of time. Rest on till we meet to part no more. Maa sun olufe se ma sinmi, gbe ori le aya oluggbala re. Afe o sugbon Jesu fe o ju. Sun re! sun re! sun re!

Your dearest daughter,

Esther Abiola bamtefa

(Nee Awode)

My honourable blessed father, it still seems like a dream that you have gone to rest in the blossom of your creator, death came like a flash of lightening taking you away from me, your advice still stays fresh in my memory, wow daddy mi you are indeed a HERO.

A Man with a golden heart, always cheerful, very humble, a devoted Christian, loving, caring, a good man, a disciplinarian, very courageous, always ready to give advice and prayers. I will really missed you, if there is a second chance of coming back into this world, it’s still you the man of greatness and humility that I want to come through as a father, you are ready to listen to my complains offer good advises and tell me to be strong as a man, wow who will listen patiently for me, who will tell me to have a strong faith in God like my dad, a gallant soldier of Christ, you have won many battles in prayers, it’s so disheartening to accept your passing away but I take solace in God knowing fully well that you have gone to rest in the bosom of your creator.

A caring father indeed, you taught me the way of the lord right from childhood, you make sure my school fees were paid through poster order even before resumption in my secondary school days, what a father you are in a million, whatever I am in Christian faith today were traces passed unto me from you, hmmm daddy mi you are indeed an angel in human form.

We all your children enjoyed a good life right from childhood, our growing days were fun, despite been a disciplinarian you make sure our youthful time were one of the best. We all attended the best schools even enjoyed continental dishes as a family when we were young, daddy mi you gave your family a good shelter in our growing up days as a senior NEPA staff, what else can I say of a wonderful gift of a father you are to your children, your inestimable supports and encouragement to family and friends can never be forgotten throughout our lives, I feel heavy in my heart writing this in tears just hoping someone would knock at my door and tells me it’s all nightmare, baba mi you believe in the efficacy of prayers and fasting makes you overcome tribulation even when you are humiliated during you active days in office, we know your pain then but you still makes sure the daily three (3) meals are set on out tables, a diligent man, believes in hard work, always comfortable with whatever God has given him.

On many occasions I have seen you refusing monetary gift from people who intends to bribe you, and when I asked you why the refusal, all I get back as an answer is wait for the lord to bless you and indeed God blessed you and your fruits beyond what you bargained for, indeed prayers and faith in the lord works for you daddy, parts of why I loved coming to your place always to gist with you and also tap into those knowledge and wisdom God has endowed you with.

With tears in my eyes I could remembered vividly our last discussion you told me to find time and see you for personal discussion, wow I had intention of coming to see you on that day you departed, it’s really saddens my heart that we were unable to gist again like we used too, I will really miss my dad’s daily devotion, his calls to all children to come for prayers, indeed you are truly a great and devoted man of God.

A cheerful giver, you always emphasized on helping the needy, even if it takes you given your last penny, your departure on earth will no doubt make a significant impact in some peoples life, a prayer warrior, a friend, confidant, a preacher , a believer, a good man, the best father any child would prayed for.

Baba Mi, your words of encouragement and advice will forever live in my heart, I would have taken a whole page to describe whom you are but words cannot qualify you enough, rest on daddy till we meet to part no more, I know you have gone to join the choristers who sing HALLELUYAH to the lord and king of kings, continue to rest in the bosom of the lord, I love you but God loves you more.

Your Son

Olatunji Awode

On that fateful day, December 18, 2018, that I lost you, I lost a true and gentle friend, a faithful and loving father, a hero, a mentor, a guardian angel and a prayer warrior.

Until that fateful morning, when you breathed your last, I have always thought that my father is too good to pass on. I have never imagined that this beautiful soul can also depart from this world.

Dad, you will always hold a special place in my life full of memoirs of how you shaped my future and guided me through thick and thin. I will always remember you, dad, because there will never be another one to replace the love I have for you in my heart.

I want to specially thank you for being a loving and faithful husband to my mom, Delphine Modupe Awode. Thank you for falling madly in love with her and marrying her 58 years ago. Thank you for showing me that those news headlines are not the norms but that men can actually love their wives faithfully and unconditionally for a life time.

For 58 years, you knew no other woman, anywhere you went, she was there with you; anywhere you were transferred to you took your wife and your children along. I always thought that you two are inseparable, but alas it was only death that could separate you.

Dad, I love you for infinite number of reasons; I feel so blessed to have you as my father and I am thankful for the wonderful upbringing you have given me.

Thank you for being a loving, generous and protective father; for all those Christmas shopping while we were young and for continuing same with our children, your grandchildren, when we have grown up; for those family treats at five star hotels for lunch and dinner when we were growing up; and for ensuring that our refrigerator at home was always stocked with ice cream, margarine, butter and cabin biscuit for our daily refreshment. You ensured that our family is a very united and closely knitted family, having a family meeting every month in your house, and an extended family reunion every January 1, and you always made sure to get the same attire for all your grand-children for those occasions.

You love your family so much that you ensured that for all those transfers to Guasu, Makurdi, Kafancha, Jos, Maiduguri, Kaduna, Ibadan, Benin, etc, you always went with your family. We packed our goods and luggage in NEPA trucks, and you personally drove your family in your car to each of your new stations.

Thank you for being my spiritual guidance and prayer warrior. You brought us up with a lot of spiritual discipline. I remember those vigils every Friday night, those weekly fasts, those monthly mountain top visits, those anointing oil before school every day, those daily 6pm Church Service every day, which nobody must miss, even when my siblings and I have become adults you still brought holy water and anointing oil for us and our children, and you called us on phone from time-to-time to ensure that we were using them.

Thank you for being a brilliant and intelligent father; for ensuring that we acquired quality education and for personally teaching us Mathematics and Additional Mathematics, your favourite subjects; and for those great sacrifices during those challenging times, when you had to give me your best shoes, clothes and Aso Oke to sell in Sangross Market in order to take care of my school needs.

Dad, everything I have achieved or become in life, I owe it to God, you and mom.

Thank you for a life full of contentment.

I remember any time I approved for increase in your allowance as the Chairman, Chemstar Group of Companies, you will always come to meet me at home personally to thank me but my response has always been that you did not have to thank me, you have invested in me and this is the time to get the dividends of your investment.

I will always implore you to use the money to take care of yourself, to enjoy yourself and give yourself a treat once in a while because this life can be so short, but your response had always been that the money that is not used to serve God and to serve humanity is of no value.

Again, when I stumbled on your bank statement after your death, and I saw the hundreds of young and old people, orphans and widows that you give monthly allowances, and those that you paid their school fees, I was amazed.  

You used everything that you have - money, time and talent - to serve God and humanity, and you did so with a lot of respect and humility. Your kindness and generosity will forever remain in my memory. You left people with a lot of good memories of you, how you counselled, always listening and how you helped with all that you have.

Thank you Dad; for ensuring that you packed your 81 years on earth full of love, kindness, sense of humour, joy and happiness, humility, fear of God, generosity and undying love for God and humanity.

Dickson Adekunle Awode, if love could have saved you, you never could have died because we loved you so much… if money could have saved you, we would have paid for more years.

In life, I loved you dearly … in death I love you still, in my heart you hold a place that no one could ever fill. I am so very proud to be your son. I love you Dad, and will miss you dearly.

Rest well, my father.

Adieu my Chairman.  

Your Son

Emmanuel Aderemi Awode.

No man knows a man more than the wife! I have marvelous stories about my 81year-old husband you all call ‘grandpa’ who has gloriously passed on to the great beyond. Our journey together was practically divine and truly theatrical. At a tender age of 20, I was bubbling. He was 23 and was astute. Then, we met.

He was the son of Late Pa David Adenowo Awode, the first Nigerian to bag the title, ‘Superintendent of Police.’ Kam Salem Building would have been named after his father, but he retired much earlier than Kam Salem. David Adenowo, his father, was from Ijebu-Omu, and his mother, Madam Regina Folorunso Awode, was from Ijebu-Ode. Adekunle Dickson Olufemi was one of their many sons and daughters. At an early age, and being supremely brilliant, he became an Engineer and would have been raised up a Policeman, but his father had other ideas and instead enlisted him in the Technical College ‘arm’ of the then ECN (Electricity Corporation of Nigeria) which later became NEPA (National Electricity Power Authority). Nigeria was good in those days and being dazzling among his contemporaries; he was successful and was retained as a staff of ECN to be in charge of Maintenance. He was then called “Young Engineer.” Then, he was based in Lagos.

At a very tender age, I had lost my father, but I had a caring stepfather in Late Pa Akinwumi Abatialapa Michael Sholubi, a.k.a. ‘Papa Show’ in Tejuosho Street, Ojuelegba axis, Lagos. I was living with him as a charmingly cute, energetically simple, educated and employed young lady. I was skilled in mathematics; accounting and I had a flair for shorthand writing. So, I was the Secretary to the Boss and also acted as the Accounts Clerk of the international company called Tikatore Press Limited. It was situate at Port Novo Market Street, off Broad Street, Lagos Island. Part of my job then was to prepare salaries of hundreds of workers every month. I am an Egba lady from the Owu Community, same town with our former President and one-time Head of State, Dr. Okikiola Matthew Aremu Olusegun Obasanjo. In Tikatore Press Limited, our staffs were diverse. I tend not to favour the Ijebus among them for some personal reasons then. I never knew God would favour me with a very smart Ijebu man who outwitted me!

The Drama in Marina

I was in my stepfather’s house at Tejuosho Street, Surulere, Lagos enjoying myself. Then, some young men came to Papa Show. They wanted to be his tenants. Lo, and behold, the man Adekunle was among these men. All of them were staffs of the then ECN. They were his collegiate in ECN Technical College. They were brilliant, cool-headed and were of diverse nationalities – Sierra Leoneans, Ghanaians, Togolese, Gambians, Gabonese, etc.

Somehow, Pa Sholubi, (Papa Show) wanted a Mathematics teacher for one of my younger brothers, Ibikunle. Adekunle opted to take up the job. I never knew Adekunle could teach. No one knew the impromptu Mathematics Teacher had plans other than Mathematics. While on the job, Adekunle would send Ibikunle to me with ‘doxology letters’ and I will tear them. I was not interested in the Kunle-Teacher-Kunle-Pupil coup-de-tat. This way would not work. So, the Electrical Engineer turned Mathematician manufactured plan B. He was a soccer player and very skilled in it. ECN was to play PWD (Public Works Department) in those days and there was a local derby. So, he invited me. I was not on duty in my office and it was a weekend, so, I obliged. We got to talk, perhaps, with the help of some of his friends, for the first time.

After I returned, Papa Show queried me that I hardly ever go out on a weekend, ‘What happened?’ I told him I went to the stadium for a local ‘ECN-PWD’ derby. He was even more surprised. He said: “Ejo lowo ninu!” (Snakes crawl with hidden hands!) I told him someone invited me, his boy’s teacher. He called and questioned him. He did not deny and he went ahead to signify his wish to have me as his wife. Papa Show was both amused and surprised. After due consultations to know his parents, who they were; Papa Show, my stepfather, agreed to our relationship. Then, to know him more, I went to another soccer event with him. Then, God put a seal on our courtship-relationship with a dramatic event.

It was in 1960, we walked a while and we were tired. So, we decided to talk and our choice was the front of Christ Cathedral Church in Marina, Lagos. Marina was the hub of courtship talk-talk at the time. So, we sat on the walkway which was like a staircase. Not long afterwards, a very loud noise occurred and every intending couple there took to their heels; no one knew whether it was gunshot or it was a bomb. The noise was so loud it scared many and a lot of the intending couples never returned. Several were too scared to sit down or walk that path again. Adekunle came back looking for me! I could not believe he did not abscond like some men did that day. But what surprised me more is even different. I still tag that event that day up till today – the Drama in Marina.

The drama was that where Adekunle and I sat, the exact spot, after the loud ‘boom’ sound, was a fallen coconut tree. The site even caved in! After we all ran in different directions, as we came back looking for each other, we saw the spot where we sat was with a very big coconut. Adekunle encouraged me to sit down at that same spot and he carried the coconut. He was wondering. I was wondering too. Neither of us understood how we were not crushed. Strange enough, the sound was more than just a coconut fall and the coconut caused the place to cave in. So, he carried the coconut home to tell his parents what happened. He said his parents interpreted it as God putting a seal on our courtship. They peeled the husk, removed the coconut, poured the water into two parts, told him to drink the coconut water and eat some and commanded him to go and give me my own water and my own coconut. I told same story to Papa Show and he ordered me to drink the coconut water and eat it, and I did. That time would have been our wedding but he was transferred to Gusau (pronounced ‘Guzo’), now Zamfara State. He spent almost a year there and while on leave on Saturday, November 26, 1960, we tied the knot, which neither of us untied till he departed on Tuesday, December 18, 2018, three weeks after his 81st Birthday ceremony. We married in Lagos on a weekend and had our honeymoon in Zaria. The following week, he was back to work at Gusau.

‘Adekunle Mi,’ I Like Your Ringing Tone!

I am yet to know a family man and a workaholic and a servant of God or civil servant like Adekunle! ‘Adekunle Temi Nikan’ was a complete family man. He has one idea about his family which follows the Yoruba proverb: ‘Bi Igbin fa, ikarahun re a tele!’ (The Snail goes everywhere with his house!) ‘Adekunle Temi Nikan’ has worked in every part of Nigeria and has never left us behind for one day. Once he is transferred, we all move with him. Being a senior staff of ECN and of NEPA (National Electric Power Authority) until it became born again and again and again to PHCN (Power Holding Corporation of Nigeria) and several Distribution Companies nowadays, he was always giving a befitting accommodation. His work was enormous and he was devoted to it.

Adekunle Mi was my choice from heaven. You know why? He listens to my counsel. We talk. We discuss. We chat. He does not follow all my counsel but he does not always disregard many I foresee for him. For that reason, I saw him as my father, my lover, my friend, my husband and my better half. Funny enough, in Gusau, he took me to Church but I drew him to Cherubim & Seraphim (C & S) Church Movement. He loved God. And so, as soon as we landed in Gusau, he took me to his church, the Sudan Interior Mission (called SIM) Church. When he was transferred from there to Kaduna, he sought God again in United African Church (UNAC). Again, he was moved back to Gusau. Each of these times, we moved together. On our return, I located God and went for prayers in C & S and being desperate, continued a prolonged fasting & prayers for the fruit of the womb. God answered and gave us our firstborn in Oluwasegun Oluwasina Aderemi in Gusau. My husband was moved back to Kaduna. God gave us Michael Adetunji there. We moved again to Kaduna and we all moved together. From Kaduna, he covered every portion of the Central North Zone as ‘The Maintenance Manager of The Roving Crew.’ His work took him on a day-to-day journey to Zaria, Katsina, Kano, etc. He would go on Land Rover Truck of ECN or with his ‘Me Butu Butu’ (Hausa word for Triumph Motorbike) to get to his work-site to fix whatever was damaged. Amidst the enormity of work and family care, we then had Esther again in Kaduna before he was moved again to Maiduguri where we had Samson Oladipupo.

Before we could settle down for long in Maiduguri, ECN heard about Adekunle’s superlative performance up North and needed his services again down south, so he was moved again. This time to Benin-City to oversee the whole of the then Mid-West & Eastern suburbs – Agbor, Auchi, Ughelli, Port Harcourt, Uyo, Calabar, Onitsha, Enugu, etc. He was always on the road. But there in Benin-City, God gave us our last daughter, Edowaye Aduragbemi Comfort. One thing about Adekunle is that he never refused transfers; he had this high sense of duty that will infuriate any woman, but he had a style of passing it across to me that I hardly ever object to our family movement. So, we travelled as a family all over Nigeria because he was a very devoted civil servant and family man.

Lest I Forget: Grandpa, My Own 81yr-old Playmate, Was God’s Bosom Friend!

Adekunle had one wonderful fault. No Sunday ever meets him at home; he was always in Church on a Sunday. His fault is compounded by one more thing: everyone of us must be in church with him! So, I always get ready for Sundays as if I married him because of Sunday activities in Church! He gets to church before everyone and we were the last to leave the church. Why? He would use his personal car to drop off every elderly church member while we wait for him as the family members. Whenever he came back, he compounds our comfort with another style of his service to God; he welcomes anyone in church who lacked food to come over and eat in our house. So, my work since Gusau to Zaria to Maiduguri or Makurdi and Benin-City to Ibadan or Lagos was to prepare food for Church members every Sunday. Our house was an extension of Church Services every Sunday. As a wife to Adekunle, I have become Matron to midwife people and activities other than just family issues. Adekunle gave me Sunday-Sunday assignments regularly, but God never disappointed him for his large heart to accommodate and satisfy people of all races he meets in church!

While in Kaduna, we lived in Ogbomosho West where was in Katsina Road, the Headquarters of C & S Church Movement. Adekunle’s relentless work in Church endeared him to be noticed by the then Baba Aladura Worldwide, Late Baba Coker who promoted and anointed him. The next in line, Late Papa Kalejaiye, also favoured and promoted him further. However, he was moved to Ibadan and later seconded to Lagos where he retired from ECN or NEPA after almost four decades of service round the Nation. And all along, he served God parri-passu as he served secularly.

‘Adekunle Mi,’ Is That How You Will Say ‘Goodbye?’

Adekunle Mi, together, we swore in 1960 to an oath “Till Death Do Us Part,” and you allowed its fulfilment, leaving me alone. But you never left me lonely for one day before, my dear. I was always with you. You were always with me. Why should you just leave me behind so suddenly? Adekunle Mi, Is that how you will say goodbye?

Olufemi Mi, together, we walked this earth in love, in kindness, in peace for many decades. If it is possible to marry hereafter, I will still like to be your wife. But your departure was to me too soon! Your last words to me in our room were very soothing words indeed. I would not ever forget your last words last night when you looked into my eyes like you did reassuringly to me on our wedding day – with that smile. You lovingly said to me: ‘Iya Aderemi, No Cause for Alarm.’ I agree.

But Olufemi Mi, you should not have left me alone. I feel you now like never before…Olufemi Mi…. Adekunle Temi Nikan….Dickson, my love…Hmmm…Sun re o…

Omo Olomu, Omo Omu Lore

Omo Bale Bale, E ma gan Omo Omu

Omo Omu Le M’eja Wale

Omo Oba N’ile, Omo Oba L’oko

Olufemi, Omo Oba ti i fi Oba je

Once more, my dear, sun re o. Adieu! My Dearest, Good Night.

Your one and only sweetheart,

Mrs. Delphine Ayinke Modupe Olubunmi AWODE