TRIBUTE TO A NOBLE KNIGHT
I have stared at my keyboard for days now, but I can’t seem to be able to put a sentence together that pays sufficient tribute to Sir Theodore Okwoli.
When not knowing fills one up, amidst a heart that wishes to express itself, what can be next? Tears, tears, and tears, sorrows in me. Where do I even start?
So, I got a phone call on March 12th from my bosom friend Ikenna informing me that you-Daddy had been hospitalized for days due to illness, when I inquired about your condition, I was assured that you will be well. Later that evening, Ikenna texted me with a picture of you laid in the hospital bed, HE SAID "Please remember my dad in your prayers."
I called him immediately to know the situation…the line was engaged, I tried again it was engaged… I could feel that there was a problem, but I couldn't put my finger on what. The following morning when I woke up, Ikenna had left 5 missed calls at 1A.M???... This is unusual, I said to myself.
While I was wondering in thoughts, my wife came into my room and said, Baby, Salas is on the phone. I took the call and he said, “Taker!” My Dad is gone!
His voice was wavering and quavering with grief, agony, and sadness as he described what happened.
In that conversation, I drifted in thoughts as I remembered when I and Ikenna welcomed Daddy Okwoli and Mummy at the Port Harcourt Airport. The warm handshake and hug we exchanged, the gorgeous smile you flashed at us, and not to mention the gist you told us in the car on how you and mummy enjoyed your stay at the UK. Thanks to Uzoamaka your daughter.
I recall my visit to your hometown Agulu during the New Year, where we had an interesting discussion on politics and sports. I could still picture Adaugo your granddaughter running around the sitting room and compound while you expressed your views and opinions.
How can it be that you are no more...? Just like that?
Like Habakkuk, I will stand upon my watch, and set upon the tower, to hear what God will say to me on the demise of a Man so meek and peaceful, a Husband so loving and caring, a Father and Grandfather so committed and devoted. A true Arsenal fan.
Daddy’s moral character and widespread respect in his community made his kinsmen give him the title “Ozodiebube”. In church, he was a Devoted Christian and a worthy Knight.
As we share in this moment of grief, we take solace in the fact that, Daddy Okwoli lived well in this life. He left a legacy everyone is proud of.
A goal in life is not to live forever on earth, rather, for the living to leave legacies excellent enough to be remembered thereafter.
Ozo! You have left footprints on the sands of time, as you sleep with your ancestors, having fulfilled your days here on earth dutifully and faithfully, you will be greatly missed.
“Ome” (like you fondly called Mummy), Uzoamaka, Chukwuka, Ikenna, Nnamdi, Ukachukwu, Chetanna, your grandchildren, extended family members and everyone, will face the reality of separation; the reality of loss; the reality of death but within the context of hope. Yes! Our hope in Christ Jesus gives us strength and bravery when we grieve. This hope is what gives us comfort.
I’m certain that Daddy can see all the tears and hear all the encomiums.
Adieu, My Humble and Noble Knight!
From Sir Nkwachi Nwosu (KGS) on behalf of my family.