A Tribute to Gboyega Atoyebi
Dear ‘Uncle Boyega,’ as our children would often called you.
People like you only come once in a blue moon. I say that because you were a mysterious mix of seriousness and fun, a blend of simplicity and profundity and a fine weave of nobility and humility.
I met you in 2001 as the sharp-looking ‘guy’ planning to marry my soon-to-be wife's sister. Little did I know that it would be a relationship that would last for many years. You were not just a distant brother-in-law, as is often the case, you became a brother and a friend. You opened up to me and my family with your life. You never missed a chance to give, to teach, to love, to care and to help. There was always something to learn from you in all our discussions. You stimulated my brain; you took me on mental and intellectual journeys, you discussed books you read and talked me into reading them.
You would not let my family come to Lagos and stay elsewhere, but in your house... Your house was eventually monikered, "Hôtel de Atoyebis.” Indeed, several others found a home in your house. You were big-hearted and accommodating; you never missed an opportunity to give. My wardrobe has my most expensive shoes from you; yes, and perfumes and clothes too.
You loved my wife and made her feel special, you were like her ‘big bro.’ I don't know how you did it, but you won the hearts of our children. You were the uncle they connected with, even more than both their paternal and maternal uncles. It hurts that they will see their ‘Uncle Boyega’ on this side no more. Our last daughter (Aliyah) looked forward to your pancake-making business partnership, we have not been able to tell her that it shall no more be. Thank you for accepting them, for loving them and for giving to them of yourself, your time and your resources.
You were quick to apprehend and bold to execute whatever you knew was your divine duty -at work, at home, and in responding to needs around you. You didn’t need a sermon to do good.
You epitomized the love of a husband for her wife, her family, and all that matters to her. Eno got it right when you walked into her life. It would simply not be the same without you.
Yes, you were not ordained a Pastor, but you knew God, you loved him and had a genuine walk with Him. Your understanding of scriptures was profound and we drank from that well when you ministered at our church, Inspiration Life Community Church, Abuja. You only came once, but you left a lasting impact. Lauretta and Joel (my E.A and P.A) will not forget you. You met them on phone to discuss your coming to minister; when you eventually came, you came bearing gifts for them - it made a lasting impression on them. The news broke them.
You fought the good fight of faith. You loved life and lived it to the full. You came, you saw, and you won. To us, it seems a short life, but it was a full life, a generous life, a life well lived, a life that will always be remembered.
Your family and friends will definitely sustain an inestimable loss by your death. How do you find another Gboyega? How do you find such an enigmatic personality? How do you find such a husband, friend, father and uncle? Where else is such generosity found with no pomposity?
We prayed and believed, but Sovereignty has ruled. It is painful, but we know it is impossible for the Judge of all the earth to do wrong. Finite faculties are utterly unable to comprehend the Infinite. So, through our tears, we thank God and we rest in His love. We shall see again on the resurrection morning.
Sleep till then, great friend and brother.
Much love & respect.
Wale Afelumo