Tribute from Joki
February 10, 2019
This is Joki's tribute
O kuma bola Eric malea” is a phrase by Ma Doh that remains ingrained in my brain!
Dzifa was my cousin, my younger brother and a true friend. And yes Ma Doh, I always looked out for him. What I remember most fondly about our friendship, especially in the late 70s/early 80s in good old VICTORIA, was the sheer fun and joie de vivre that our little band of brothers shared as we struggled to navigate the transition to true adulthood. The list is long: playing tennis in Victoria and Yaounde; line dancing in Bay Saloon; “clearing” the farm/yard at the back of the Ahlijah house in mile one; family picnics, swimming and running on the beach in Victoria; discussing politics, girls and hanging out at the University of Lagos, ad infinitum. They were indeed fun times! Eric was a father at a young age and never shied away from his responsibility. The love he had for Sena was very evident to anyone who cared to observe the interaction between the two of them during Sena’s early years. Unlike some who may have dropped the ball, Eric kept his eyes on the prize and completed his studies to join the list of successful bana ba Sawa! He was also a fierce defender of family members, loved everyone dearly and never took his responsibilities lightly. Alas, life is what it is! Like Victor, Carl and others, I also looked forward to a time when we could all sit back on a verandah somewhere in Victoria and reminisce about the good old days.
Fate has decreed that you join Ma Doh and your Dad a little earlier than anticipated my brother! We will miss you!
Wala bwam !
Your big brother, TJ