We were boys turning into young men

We hit UI from Lagos and decided we wanted to form like voltron and be the ultimate party starters

Soroh, Biola, Slumpy, Bayode, myself, Olis and "Franco" as we called him morphed into QVD (quo Vadis)

Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Raiders, Los Angeles kings, Oakland Raiders, Boston sox Baseball caps and actual baseball bats with umbrellas that morphed into walking sticks to follow we were the ultimate "East Coast family "boys to men "abc" "bbd" live in nigeria

All too fresh

Franco been the freshest (he was the youngest of us all)

We fought all the time but Francis was always the peaceful one

The man in everyone's middle to create peace in ur young hearts

Mofa palace: is where we all crashed

Franco and baye in one room

Biola and I in another right across from one another and Olis right opposite.

Soroh always perching with someone there so he might as well have lived there.

We were together daily for years (living together, school together, night time together, ate laughed argued loved - it was endless togetherness

I can't ever forget the kids laughter hiding behind them small specs that could Barely cover his face 

I remember the time Francis came home to Nigeria after so long away. He came to visit and met my then only-son, who was special needs! Francis and I spoke about so many things, particularly life's experiences! He picked up on my fears for my son and his future and realy encouraged me and assured me that he would be fine! I really appreciated that knowing he had come through a lot (the loss of both his parents)...to still be able to reach out...he showed so much empathy! What really endeared him to me that day was that he so connected with my son on such a level...having quite a conversation with him! Most people would normally not engage my son (the way Francis did that day) based on the assumption that his skills in this area were limited. However, Francis, being who he is, connected with my son and it was truly beautiful to watch them. God bless you, Francis, for that day...for spending time with us, particularly my son, and for playing with him and treating him with such respect and dignity..just by being so normal and easy with him...truly a gentle and kind soul....


I am also so grateful for the opportunity to re-connect with Francis at Chinwe's wedding. Those were truly happy times (Francis even helped us find our son who kept on getting lost wandering off to feed his fascination with video games...)! It was really fun being there and I will always cherish those memories, particularly the wonderful speech he gave for Chinwe...his love, respect and admiration for his sister (as well as his acknowledgement of her role in his and Emmanuel's lives, and his gratitude to her for taking on the role of mother and father on the tragic loss of their parents) was so evident and clear for all to see. Yet another trait of his was made evident that day...that he is a very sensitive person...a unique and beautiful soul.....

Francis, we hold on to our memories of you! Thank you for being truly good, truly kind! I pray you are at peace with God who loves you most....


We love you. God bless you!!!   
   
Florence (Flo)