Three years on …… It still feels like you travelled and will show up one day in the department in your usual boisterous mood. Life …. I don’t know why death is so final. Well, we can't question God. I’m sure you are in heaven holding court with the angels and moving stuff.
Continue to rest in peace, Prof. We miss you in the department!

On this day 3 years ago, 23rd January,2021, it was a black Saturday. We cried and mourned but the heavens rejoiced. Daddy went home. We remember,we will never forget....

My Dad. Today would have been your 69th birthday.
Your absence is felt daily but God is expanding the family daily. You have 4 grandkids now.
Keep smiling in Heaven.

My sweet lovely Daddy, Happy posthumous birthday. I really wish you were here, I wish you would have met and enjoyed your grandchildren. I miss you everyday. We would have gathered at the house today and cut a cake,maybe eat some catfish peppersoup (smiles). Keep resting in the Lord's bosom.

Dear Prof, Continue to rest in the bosom of the Lord. I am left with very fond memories of my very kind supervisor who made the journey easy for me, giving of his time, wisdom, and materials.
As I publish our thesis which we worked on together, I really wish you were here with us to see this but rest on Sir until we meet on the resurrection morning.
Thank you for being the best supervisor, I could ever wish for, always giving of your time and resources.
Adieu Professor Anthony
Adieu to a Good Man
Adieu Sir........!

Daddy,it's been a year since you entered your eternal rest. It seems like yesterday. I miss you, always in my heart.

Dear Prof,still feels like yesterday,but we are reassured that you touched many lives positively and left your mark indelibly in the sands of time.
Keep resting in the Lord's bosom.

I miss you sincerely my father and true friend. You genuinely love me. Continue to rest on Daddy

Prof loved me!!!

He took my birth personal.

Every now and then he will stop by the house to see my parents and monitor my growth.
I was born asphyxiated. And your dad made it a duty to follow my growth.

Daddy was a good man. He still is a good man!!!!

Happy birthday Prof!
I'm sure you are hosting the Angels in heaven. Continue to watch over your loved ones left behind on earth.

Its been a slow year without your ebullience. I still see your smile at every turn. It would have been a cheerful day sharing a Coke in commemoration of your birthday. Alas you look down on us now. Keep smiling Prof!

Happy Post homous 67th birthday Dad. Keep resting in God's bosom. We miss you. God is taken care of us.

It still feels so unreal. I push my mind not to think about it most times,maybe it will be better tucked away where my thoughts are clear of your eternal absence. This morning I couldn't as I just sat there reading through tributes and crying. How you made everyone feel they were your favourite at different times still makes me wonder. I honestly miss you Prof AOU. I still wonder why the very good people leave this earth. I very much need your soothing unsolicited advice now. Everyone always sees the laughter and joy people show off, you beyond the face and locate a worried heart to offer counsel.
I miss you again and again Prof. You have been laid to rest,yet I feel so many times that its drama especially as I didnt see you lie down. Rest on Sir. You will always be in my heart.

My first meeting with Prof Anthony Okpani was in 1993 in the labour ward of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology department of the old University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) site. I was a young house officer and he a consultant. The meeting did not go very well and we were left with unfavorable first impressions of each other. Fortunately, we were able to resolve our differences soon after and formed a bond. In fact we discovered that we were neighbours in the Rumuomasi area of Port Harcourt where I lived with my parents at the time and he got to know my family.

I later took an interest in Obstetrics and Gynaecology and got admitted to the residency programme. Prof Okpani was supportive of my progress. He came to my rescue several times in the course of my career making every challenge seem easy to surmount. There are countless instances but I will share five here:

• My Part 2 casebook and long commentaries was thoroughly bashed at the departmental mock Part 2 defense in 2004. It was Prof who tutored me sometimes in his home after work on how best to defend my work. His insights were so instrumental that by the time the final exam came around, it was a walk over.

• I became a consultant / lecturer during his tenure as Head of Department in 2005. He offered great guidance and encouragement despite the gender inequity at the time. This support continued throughout the years.

• When he learnt that I was up for professorial consideration in 2019, Prof was the first person to offer me a mock professorial interview. Again this was one of the exercises that gave me the edge to succeed at the final interview.

• Upon my appointment as Acting Director of the Center for Medical Research and Training (CENMERT) of which he was the pioneer director, he gave his advice freely and in addition even gave me the draft for my first presentation at the College Academic Board meeting.

• In becoming the Head of Department (HOD) in 2020, it would be safe to say that he was the de facto HOD as he was to previous HODs. His wealth of knowledge in administration was always welcomed even though sometimes unsolicited.

Having weathered so many storms in his life and being full of grit (a trait I admire in him), I truly believed he would survive the illness this January, especially as my family and I went through similar. He was particular about his health and would always discuss the latest tips on diet and exercise with me. Although at times would tease me and say – ‘Darl, all these your health consciousness is for what? No one lives forever. Something must kill someone’. Indeed, your death has shown me that; ‘No one lives forever’!

Prof, while on admission in the hospital, you enjoined me to pray and fervently I did but God knows best why it ended in death at this time. Regardless, I still give Him all the glory. I am grateful for all you taught me and hope to replicate these learnings in Chioma – your daughter in law who is following in your footsteps as a resident in the department.

Rest in perfect peace. Amen

It's 5 days now since you were committed to mother Earth. Hmmm! It's still unreal,just like a dream but we take it one day at a time. I miss you everyday. Heaven has really gained an angel. Love you always

Dear Prof
I can not believe you have gone so soon. The news of your demise pierced through my heart like a sword thrust through flesh. Just recently I called to greet you and I was glad you were in very high spirit. 
You were such a great teacher, father and mentor. You were so knowledgeable and so skilled in your chosen field; a moving encyclopedia of O & G. Yet you were so simple, humble and approachable.

We are consoled by the fact that your good name and legacies live on. !

Prof AOU Okpani; vocal, outspoken, ever concerned about service delivery, quality of services, staff dedication to duty, efficiency, and training. I met Prof Okpani in October 1999 when I came into the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, UPTH for the internship as a House Officer. He was a kind, friendly, dedicated, fatherly, and peace-loving mentor. He saw me through residency and growth as a consultant obstetrician gynaecologist. Darl, Nne, Nwayioma were some of the endearments Prof used on us, asking us about our family, and admonishing us to take good care of ourselves. Oh, death!
Prof Okpani will be fondly remembered for his consistent presence and participatory contribution at morning reviews, clinical meetings, SOGON meetings/conferences, tutorials, etc. Prof Okpani taught and counselled. He was available and accessible. As a man committed to the ethics of the profession, the best we can do in memory of Prof Okpani, is to stand firm and work diligently to impact women’s health, life and humanity positively.
Indeed, Prof AOU Okpani shall find peace and joy in the eternal realm of our Almighty God.
Adieu Prof.

Prof Rosemary Ogu, MBBS, MScRH, FMCOG, FWACS, FICS.
Consultant Obstetrician Gynaecologist, UPTH, Port Harcourt.

My professor, my father, my teacher, my friend. I am heartbroken knowing that I am writing this as a tribute when you have gone to meet with the Lord. I wished you are still alive for me to pen down a beautiful tribute for you because of how you have touched my life in so many ways. I was away and hoping to see you when I come back to update you on our last discussion, only to hear about your sudden demise. I remember the joy that comes to my heart each time you introduce me as your inlaw to your friends. Daddy, you were a good man and I still can't believe that I won't see you on earth again.One thing that console my heart ,each time i think about you, is that you are in a better place. Many times when I am alone, I ask God why you had to leave now. I wish we can buy life, I would have bought for you with the little I have and I know many persons would have done same because, of how wonderful and kind hearted you were. My father, may your gentle soul rest in peace.
Dr. Gregory wilson Asuquo

I am not good at writing words.

But Sir, when I heard of your demise, I was deeply pained.

I am happy that your spiritual, physical, educational etc investments in Dr Charles, Dr Mary, Engr Francis, Dr Chioma and Baby Dz
, the O and G Department within and outside Nigeria, would keep speaking.

Thank you for all you did.❤️

Good night Sir.
Good night my teacher.
Good night Prof.

Professor Okpani was a unique individual in many ways. He had a very welcoming and friendly personality such that one is at ease almost instantly even with if meeting him for the first time..especially us junior colleagues of his.
A caring and warm doctor, ever helpful even when not convenient for him. He was reliable, loved and enjoyed his practice as a gynecologist/obstetrician, lecturer and mentor.
A good man. Amiable.
His love for his children and family was palpable and made manifest in their exceptional personality, humility, warmth and steadfastness in work and God....I confidently say this because of my interactions specifically with his beloved daughter Mary, and his sister Constance.

Prof ..u are solely missed! We take solace in knowing you are with Our Lord Jesus in heaven.

I pray God’s abundant grace upon the Okpani family at this time.

From;
Dr. Petronila Tabansi

I remember you sincere help to me in my Part 2 proposal and dissertation which helped me in my Part 2 examination. You were a great teacher of teachers, a friend and father to all medical students, residents and younger Consultants. May our good Lord grant your soul eternal peace and your family the fortitude to bear this loss.
Thank you for impacting me positively. Dr Mirabelle Akwaugo Anolue, Consultant Paediatrician UPTH.

It's difficult to believe that you are gone dear Prof Okpani. Life is indeed fickle. As a medical student and later, house officer in your team back in the year 2000, you gave your all to training.
Much later, as a resident and Consultant, when I thought you wouldn't remember me, when I passed by you on the corridors to greet you as a senior colleague, you ALWAYS stopped, asked about my welfare and that of my late Dad, Dr SBS Afiesimama. I treasured that so much. Rest in Peace Prof and say hello to Dad for me. Till we meet to part no more. Adieu Prof AOU Okpani.

Prof you're like a father to me. I will live to remember all the good things you thought me both in academic and moral of life. May your soul rest in the bossom of God. Amen

It is difficult putting pen to paper when the reality of your death sank in. You played a fast one on us, because we did not envisage your demise.
You were always on ground in the department, attending morning reviews and clinical meetings. Your guidance and tutoring was laced with so much humor and love.
Oh, how I wish we could take back the hands of time and ask for something different on that fateful day, but who are we to question the almighty God.
Oh death;where is thy sting? Indeed, we lost a rare gem. The department of obstetrics and gynecology UPTH, has held its head above the waters through the years and you were a source of pride.
You were one of the finest professors,not just in the department of obstetrics and gynecology UPTH, but beyond the four walls of the University of Portharcourt.
Sir, your legacy will continue to live in me.

Adieu Professor Anthony O. U. Okpani.

Prof. A.O.U.Great father figure, great teacher, great examiner,mentor,humble and unassuming personality. D man who teaches OnG with ease and smile and encourages the little ones in the medical race.We miss U.Adieu Professor till we meet to part no more.

It was a rude shock when I heard of your passing, words truly fail me to describe your personality, you were not only a teacher,scholar,father,mentor and friend to me.
Prof,I know you are in a better place, you were selfless to a fault,always willing to help people grow and make progress in life.
I wonder why the good ones leave so early, your exemplary life is worthy of emulation.
Your fatherly advice can never be forgotten from medical school days to residency training.
We sure miss you,but are comforted that you are in a better place free from the toils of this world,may your gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace.
Adieu! my beloved Prof Anthony Okpani.

Dear Prof, I never knew I was ever going to write this, I waited too long to write because of the shock. I got to know you years ago as a young medical student, as the funny professor. But the beautiful personal encounters began with me as your resident first, then You as a father. Every encounter came with knowledge, peace and joy. But the last one was cold, as I couldn't say goodbye. I really do not like to say goodbye. But sadly I must have to as you begin this glorious journey of yours. I know you have found peace and rest in the Lord, because you have continuously done His work on earth..Rest in Peace Prof...Heaven just gained an angel!

You were a great teacher full of smiles. May your soul rest in peace

Our dear Prof
Father of all
A progressive at heart and by acts
We already miss you.
Rest on from the pains of this world.

Thank you Prof, for giving your best to God and to the service of humanity.
Memories of you will forever be of moments to treasure.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you.

Adieu Prof. Rest on till we meet again on the resurrection morning.

AN ELEGY TO A MAN WORTHY OF EMULATION
It is difficult to accept that Prof. Okpani is no more, o yes! It is true that Prof. is no more. Oh what a world, no wonder the Bible says that ‘what is life that man is mindful of it’. This is really a very strong blow below the belt. How are the mighty fallen, say it not at all, can this be a dream? How I wish it is a dream, Oh no it is real! I'm still in shock and confused as if the world has collapsed on me. oh my world! An Iroko tree has fallen and the walls collapsed. The father of all, a man who treats everyone equally. No pen will be able to write your goodness, kindness, love and care towards people who came your way more especially towards me. My great teacher and wonderful counselor indeed you were. I cannot forget how happy you were when I passed my part 1 exam and how you have consistently pushed me to prepare for my part 11 exam. There will be so many chapters of book to say who Prof okpani was. I thought it was not true that you are gone forever. How I wish miracle can just happen and bring you back to life. As days go by it is getting dawned on me that its true. Your office has been locked we have not met at the hospital corridor since that day. It was more shocking to see your body been carried with the mortuary box on that black Saturday to the mortuary. Oh death you are cruel so wicked that you did not choose well. It was not suppose to be his turn now. I thought it is the wicked once that are suppose to die, oh death why my Prof, O death where is thy sting? O grave where is thy victory? Thanks be to God who has given us victory through our lord Jesus Christ. You were steadfast, diligent, unmoveable, always abounding in your work. Your labour of love will never be in vain. God must surely grant you rest in paradise. Prof you are not dead but sleeping waiting for the resurrection morning. We love you but Jesus loves you most. Sleep on beloved.  Now unto the king eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory forever and ever Amen. Goodbye my own Goodman! Rest in peace my own professor.
Dr Merry Alali Jaja

Thank you Sir for a life full of impart. Thanks for being a great teacher to me.

Thanks for making me laugh as a house officer in your unit (Team D), despite it being a very busy place.

You'll be missed. Rest on in God's bosom.

My Prof, Teacher and Father you left us unexpectedly. It's sad I can no longer call you anytime I wanted, regardless of how insignificant it was, you'd respond in your usual gentle manner. But I wipe my tears remembering how you lived your life in humility, gentility, contentment, respected the least of persons and loving unconditionally.
I won't forget what you told me after the last Membership exam.
I won't forget all the love you showered on me.
Your Creator deemed it fit to call you home, Farewell Sir, Farewell Prof of Professors.

Prof...

It is a wonderful privilege to have studied under you. Beyond giving us your all as our best teacher, you became a father to us all. I still remember when you asked Charles about me after our surgery exams... Indeed, as the Scriptures say, 'the memory of the righteous is blessed, for precious is the passing on to glory of the saints before God'. Rest on from all your works!!!

He was an unassuming, good and medest man. Father of all, you have finished your course, heaven has gained you.
Rest in God's Bossom.

He was a modest and nice man. God knows best why He called him now. Take solace knowing there's life after death Charlie-P. May God grant him eternal rest.

Daddy, I had always hoped and believed you would live to be a 100.
I miss you so much but I take solace in the fact that you lived your life to the fullest. You made a huge impact in the lives of others, you poured out your life an offering.
I am so proud and honored to have called you 'Dad'.
You're forever in my heart.

You lived a life of selfless service. You raised us your kids to love and serve God. Hard work and honesty were your watch words. i already miss your jokes.
I miss you daddy but i thank God in heaven that you are resting in his bosom peacefully

You left without a word. Adaeze asked of her Grand father already. We miss you.