Adieu Madam Victoria Uzunma Diidi

Madam Victoria Uzunma Diidi

Madam Victoria Uzunma Diidi a native of Amachara, Umuahia South L.G.A, Abia state, was an epitome of what motherhood should look like. She was until her demise a mother to three children, two boys and a girl..

When Maya Angelou said :  “To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power. Or the climbing, falling colors of a rainbow.” that was exactly what it felt like writing a tribute to her memory by her children. 


Her son,  John Kpoobari Diidi had but the best ways to express his profound love on her one year remembrance... He wrote : Mom it's been a year without your motherly love, care and affection. I am still shocked as to why God decided to call you home early. Mummy it has not been easy without you being that you were not present to witness my graduation from school and my upcoming convocation. It is sad that you didn't eat the fruit of your labor. I just want to say that I will continue in the part you taught me and make sure that you always smile when you look down from heaven. 

Mummy till we meet to part no more, keep resting on the Side of the lord.

What we have come to accept in life is that there is an end, but what we as humans have decided to comfort ourselves with are the memories we cherish of our loved ones...

We believe what Oprah said that : “ the choice to become a mother is the choice to become one of the greatest spiritual teachers there is.” ~ Oprah


Adieu Madam Victoria Uzunma Diidi
     
               (1955 - 2015)

TRIBUTE TO DAD (REV JORNSEN AKPAN)

TRIBUTE TO DAD (REV JORNSEN AKPAN)

Some say: “there’s light at the end of every tunnel”; others say: there are silver linings in every dark cloud… I sat, watched, hoped and prayed that this could be the case. Days passed by, then months and then reality stepped in and I came to find out that that’s how it’s going to remain. Years have passed by and now 18 years down the line, I still miss you like it was yesterday.

There were no phones, but like Shakespeare said in ROMEO AND JULIET, "bad news travels faster than good news" ; the message got to us swifter than a jet across the Atlantic.

January 10, 1998 was like doom’s day. My ears were heavy. My head was light, my brain blank. I could barely think. I could hardly believe it. I had to see you myself to believe it was real. I’m so sure I wasn’t alone in this… we got on board and sailed the land like it were a sea and in no distant time, we got to where your body laid. I had to touch you, call on you, and dare you not to respond… How could you do this to me? How about all the promises you made me? How about the hopes and dreams we shared. The institutions you promised to send me to so I could become all that you wanted of me? Like the twin ivory towers on September 11, all my dreams came crumbling down.

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Like soldiers of the cross and your infantry that we were, we quickly gathered in circles and clusters and began to pray. Innocently we all felt it was impossible for you to go … I held your feet and called your name for hours, yet you didn’t respond. How could you not respond to my call? I have never called you three times and you do not respond or at least shout back at me: “Can’t you see I’m busy?” Then I’d know I got your attention. That was when it dawn on me the true definition of #death.

So this is what death truly means? Does this mean I never get to talk to you again? How long will it take for you to come by? This can’t be this forever. This is so cruel. Who will I run to? Who will I turn to? I was barely a teenager, how can I face the world out there all by myself? Your “Little Esther” is home, how are we going to explain this to her?

Months later, we led a band of buses to Afaha Ubiom (your hometown) where you would be laid to rest. People from all works of life were gathered. Canopies filled your front house. Alas, a funeral… So this truly is how the story would end? I was made to read biography and how I did that without breaking into tears, how that happened, I cannot remember.

I took my camera and had photos of you lying still in-state… mom was helpless, if only you could hear her cry, you’d listen to the one you loved most… hours later, reality kicked in again. There you were, 6 feet below… Now we were left to our fate.

The next month I came back with my results with no proud father to show it to… Mum was too sorrowful to look at anything… All her sentences ended with: “if only your dad was here”… I told myself someday I’ll do all the things you wanted me to do and I know that that is exactly what you’ll want of me…
Daddy; Unyime is now Pas Ben Unyime-Jornsen, he now Pastor's a church known as THE EVER GLORIOUS WORD MINISTRY . A graduate of Geography and a proud father of three (3). Aniekan is now popularly known as Steward Godwin Jornsen and the Senior Pastor of IN HIS NAME BIBLE CHURCH; you see those computers he used to fiddle with at Mensah’s place? He’s now a Genius in it. He’s father to five (5) wonderful children. Uwem is now Pastor Uwem Joseph and has taken your place as Pastor in MOUNT ZION HOLY GHOST CHURCH INC where you co-founded. I’m quite sure you’ll be proud of him. He’s father to three (3) wonderful children. Imaobong (Love) is now Mrs. Love Imaobong Emmanuel. She saw herself through the higher institution and is now married and a proud mother of four. A sight you would have loved to behold. As for Kokoette, he’s gone International. He’s now known all over as K-O BABA. I can’t list the things he does for money and I’m certain he too can’t, but you would have been so proud to. Your baby, Esther is not doing poorly too. With an OND and a husband coming soon. People said I was your direct replica, I’ll walk in your stead but that’s a story for another day; at least you got three (3) Pastors already, that is obviously more than you bargained for. At least I would have showed you your daughter-in-law to be and I'm certain you would have loved her.

Lots of your children, you took in and father I may not have the resources to mention so as not to leave some out are all doing marvelously well.
Oceans may dry but i'll never forget the memories i have of you.
One thing is sure, that one thing that gave us all the hope and strength to fight relentlessly. There’ll be light at the end of the tunnel, and my silver lining I shall see when WE SHALL MEET AGAIN TO PATH NO MORE.

ADIEU PAPA
REV JORNSEN AKPAN


Son 

Pastor Taiwo Odukoya's Tribute In Memory of His Wife LatePastor Bimbo Odukoya

Pastor Taiwo Odukoya's Tribute In Memory of His Wife LatePastor Bimbo Odukoya

Pastor Bimbo Odukoya   

(September 12, 1960 – December 11, 2005) 

Was a Nigerian Pastor and Televangelist who was married to the founder of The Fountain Of Life Church Pastor Taiwo Odukoya. Pastor Odukoya, often called "Pastor Bims," was a receiver of over 60 national and international awards for her contributions to nation building, the development of her country, Nigeria, and the West Africa sub region, and for leadership as a woman of high moral standards and a role model to many. 

Until her death she was A writer, popular televangelist, highly sought conference speaker, youth mentor and marriage counsellor, she was one of several individuals chosen by Samsung to represent Nigeria in carrying the Olympic Torch in Athens, Greece at the 2004 Olympic Games. She died as a result of the Sosoliso Airlines Flight 1145 crash. - Wikipedia 

Her husband Pastor Taiwo Odukoya took to Facebook in memory of her demise, 10 years today since her passing on..:

"It is exactly ten years since the grim incident that led to the passing of my late wife, ‘Bimbo Odukoya. Yet, as I look through the years, I am awash with feelings of gratitude. God, in His character, has been faithful. I am particularly grateful for the life that ‘Bimbo lived and the legacies she left behind. It is incredible that ten years after her passing, her teachings continue to impact families, and the initiatives she drove while with us, are still here, touching the nations. Indeed, only God could have chosen an eager teenage girl and built her into a woman of international repute, to His glory alone. Only God could have given such a unique assignment and given the grace to run with it. And only God could have determined when the curtains were drawn.

If there is therefore any lesson we must consciously strive to remember, it is that there is a divine calling and assignment on every life God created. As we celebrate ‘Bimbo today, let us stop to ask ourselves: ‘am I truly in the place of my assignment? am I living the life God intended?’ This should drive your life’s philosophy as it did hers. The world will celebrate your influence in Jesus name." 

We pray may her soul continue to Rest in Peace

ELDER MADAM ADA IGONI (1930 - 2010)

What honour can a child give to a parent if not to honour their memory and give thanks to them for all they have been as Earthly Guardians.. Today 9th December made it exactly five years since She lost her Mother, and these words to here will break your heart.

Read her Tribute to her mom. You have one or two things to learn. 

May your soul Rest in Peace Madam Ada Igoni.

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Ada....

It has been five years today and as the days rolls by, each moment passing, continues to bring your thoughts  ever green in my heart, I wish so very much that you lived longer to see how great Grace has carried me forward upwards. Yes the strive show up and yes I wish you were still around to remind me that God rules over the affairs of men especially His own. Little wonder you named me (Iyaye- meaning Mine).

You were a very strong woman Independent and industrious. You never dwelled on your condition (as a physically challenged person) You saw and had no reason why a human being would not hardness their full potentials rather than seeking for pity or sympathy from another.

You were a great disciplinarian, who saw life as it was, you will without lifting a ginger insist that one should work hard to gain success. You refuse to see gender with people, all you saw are human. You didn’t discriminate neither were you a feminist. You were just simply human.

Am so blessed in all ramifications to have you as my mother. Against all odds you were steadfast in all the good Lord entrusted to you the chief of which is me.

Ibinyigibo, idein namusam, pa- koruma dein inyo sara –sime.

Always,

Myne Wilfred

Your beloved daughter. 

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Death on Arik Air, Nigeria

According to Nigerian News Outlet Vanguard,  a passenger onboard Arik Air (A Nigerian Local Airline) enroute Lagos from Owerri.

The Spokesman of Arik Air, made a statement that : "A middle-aged man abroad Arik Air's Owerr-Lagos flight was this afternoon confirmed dead by Doctors on arrival at the Lagos airport, The passenger boarded the flight from Owerri in the company of a relative. He started showing signs of uneasiness midway into the flight." Mr Adebanji Ola further mentioned that the body of the man has been deposited in the mortuary by the Police while investigation into the immediate cause of death is ongoing.

We say may His Soul Rest in Peace.

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TRIBUTE OF LATE ELDER SUNNY TAMUNOIBUOMIE AJUBO

When we reached out to The Ajubo's family to write a tribute to their late father, we didn't know we struck a cord or remembrance, commitment and Respect to their father.. 

Below are their words...

May Elder Sunny T. Ajubo Rest In Peace.

How can we say a few words to do justice to all the years of love and strength you have given us? 

And our hearts feels so low, as we try to face the reality of your departure. 

We miss the sound of your voice at those moments when you advises us or gave us moral support. 

Your life touched so many of us along the way. 

No one really wants to say goodbye, so we wish you eternal peace. 

Mr. & Mrs. Tamunodiepiriye G. Ajubo 

“Where is my Sake Sake?” I asked grandma. She didn’t answer me. She only turned her face and wiped her eyes. 

“Mummy, where is grandpa?” I asked pointing to your bed. 

Mummy said you have gone to heaven to be with God. 

I still hope to see you someday so you can explain where you have been. 

I miss you… Sake! Sake!! 

Tamunoibuomie Emmanuel Ajubo 

You left so early Sir… 

I and my family really miss your care and jokes. 

You are like a friend that we can tell all that bothers us and you advises us accordingly. 

We love you and we will continue to remember you. 

Rest in the bosom of the Lord. 

Mr. & Mrs David Edokpa 

Openness to everyone, caution with everyone. 

Either ways, nothing can be more formidable than a life lived with knowledge of Christ. 

This life is what you encouraged and taught us all to live by and that is what we celebrate as you pass on. 

Thank you for being the father you were. 

Myne Wilfred 

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Big Daddy, you are my lion, you set me on the right path, nurtured me to be a courageous man. 

You made sure the least person around you was affected by your love and care, you were a blessing to humanity. 

I can never ask for a better Dad… Goodbye 

Mr. Daso H. Ajubo 

Chei, my colossus… 

You were a great inspiration. 

I cherish the good times we shared together. 

My love for you retains till we meet again 

Sleep well, Dad 

Abiye Nefertiti Ajubo 

Rabbi taught me how not to be offended to the point of forgiveness against anyone irrespective of the persons point of view. 

Demand from life what you deserve or desire. 

Make humour over issues you can’t control. 

Above all, love the ones you call family… 

Adieu Daddy. 

Pst & Dcns. Bright Ajubo 

Like one of you wise sayings, the way to a man's heart is his belly. You taught me on how to work hard to keep yourself full n sickness free. 

Goodbye Dad. 

Lt & Mrs. Tamuno-opubo P. Ajubo 

Rabbi you are a man of truth and a man of your words. 

Rest in Peace… 

Iyabo Oyebanji 

You are a brother indeed… Adieu my brother and father. 

Tamunopekerebia Daka 

Daddy you taught us to emulate good aspects of life, learn wisdom, Fear God and keep his commandments. 

Sleep well Daddy… 

Sup. Ap. & Ant. Mary C. S. Elenwo & Family

Final Funeral Rites of Late Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwaste II

According to Vanguard News The funeral rites for the late Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse II, came to an end yesterday, at Ode-Itsekiri, the ancestral home of the  Itsekiri nation with encomiums showered on the late Olu by eminent Nigerians extolling the virtues of the late Olu.

He was described as a quintessential royal father who led by example and impacted positively on the lives of many who came across him.

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He was also described as an icon of the traditional institution  and an embodiment of the culture and pride of Warri people, presiding over a kingdom that dates back to the 14th century and exemplified the awe and majesty of the traditional ancestry.

Ogiame Atuwatse II will forever be remembered as a father, a bridge builder, reformist, peace loving and most importantly, a faithful  Christain king who stood by his belief in Jesus Christ in-spite of the challenges that his responsibility as an African traditional ruler demanded.

A statement at the end of the funeral rites said: “We will definitely miss him. Throughout his reign, he was a beacon of hope and unity of the Itsekiri nation, a wise leader and worthy king who has left his foot print on the sands of time. He stood out amongst kings and became a reference point for majesty and dignity. He contributed a great deal   to the development of   Nigeria.”

The high point of the   funeral rites was the rich display of Itsekiri culture and tradition by the entire Itsekiri nation. Dances of various forms reserved for royality were on display throughout the 14-day period, especially the ancient Ogolo dance by Irigbo people, which is a spiritual dance where the drummers sit on mats beating special drums made of metal  basins while the women dance. It is usually performed only for kings and was staged on day 4 with a full dance troupe of 250 persons performing. This dance was performed 28 years ago when Atuwatse II was crowned.

The Ojomo of Warri Kingdom Chief Tesigiweno Yaya Pessu, who is the chairman of Olu Advisory Council and Warri Traditional Council shed more light on the rite of passage for the late Olu. He said that December  3, 2015 marked the end of the funeral rites for Ogiame Atuwatse II, adding that the 14 days programme had come to an end and the ban on festivities in Warri Kingdom had been lifted as the mourning period for the late Atuwatse II had ended.

We say Rest in Peace.