Ofie! And Ores! Were the names I and my elder sister (oreva) were fondly called by our Late Uncle Wilfred Offeh. As a child, I particularly looked forward to Wilfred's visits. He would promise to get me a second gift, even when he had no money to fulfill the first promise. But he got me my first jean trouser and a trainers for xmas. The second promise was a BMX bicycle, I wish I knew how much a teacher at Uromi earned.
My Late Uncle was adventurous, hardworking, a risk taker, a hustler, and die hard optimist. He had ventured into businesses that almost swallowed him, but he never stopped believing in business. Late Wilfred Offeh was a enthusiast and an extrovert. He made friends on impulse and infused loads of positive energy in them, so that they become full of hope for a better life.
Many know Late Wilfred Offeh as a great teacher. I am the scientist he birthed from the family. I will never forget the support and encouragement he provided to ensure I passed my WAEC on first attempt. And I will not foregt the extra physics and mathematics lessons he organized for free to support the WAEC candidates of Iyede grammar school, which he made sure I attended. From Uromi to Iyede Grammar schools, Wilfred imparted lives of pupils and colleagues and made friends of a lifetime.
I cannot forget that he showed up for my wedding ceremony. Unexpected! Yes! He completed the joy of my father, his elder and only brother. Even though we missed him for his brother's 80th birthday, we were hopeful he would celebrate with the family again. Oh! How sad it is that his brother would lay him to rest at 83, just three years later.
I will surely miss the voice that calls me Ofie! My dear Uncle Wilfred. Please help me wish the soul of Willie, Yankee, Osikpe, Wilfred Offeh a peaceful journey home.