We met when I came to marry your daughter. After initial introductory pleasantries, you asked your kinsmen who were visiting you to excuse you, as you wanted private time with your prospective son-in-law. You then questioned me about my background and intentions, and I lay bare my life before you. You were so impressed by my openness, that we immediately bonded as friends and ended our meeting by toasting to the commencement of a happy family union.
You were a model father-in-law – dignified in the manner you carried yourself about, yet friendly and respectful to the generation of your children. An effective teacher – through your works of love and kindness, and an astute and successful businessman and political wheeler-dealer to boot. And as a hen that covers her brood of chicks, you watched over and protectively covered the community around you, both near and far.
My only regret is that you didn’t fulfil your dream of visiting us inKenyabefore your passing on. Nevertheless, I am confident that we shall renew and enhance our friendship in the dimension beyond, when I eventually join you there at my appointed time. Long live Chief Dr N O Nwojo – Obi Mba 1 of Abiriba, and may your works continue to honour you.
(Isaac Aluochier, husband to Judith Ebere)
