"OKE OSISI ADAGO" (THE IROKO TREE HAS FALLEN)
To me, my Daddy, as I fondly called him, was the best father anyone could have. By nature, he was a simple man. He lived strongly for the truth, and was always more than ready to stand by it no matter whose ox was gored. Hence his nickname, ‘Ezi Okwu Bu Ndu’ — Truth Is Life. Ever ready to defend the truth, regardless of whatever could be at stake.
He was a very self aware man and this motivated him to accomplish whatever he desired. If I poured my heart out fully to describe all of his admirable traits, there simply wouldn’t be space enough for others to put down their tributes, but it is important that I mention a few of them.
He was a good man, very industrious, hardworking, sacrificial, a disciplinarian, caring, had a good sense of humour, peaceful, intelligent, analytical, and had a deep understanding of his God. Anyone who had a close relationship with him would agree.
He would give out of his possessions to the needy even before checking if what he had was sufficient enough for his family, because he believed that God had blessed him with the strength to work, and that when he did, provisions would be made.
He sacrificed so much to ensure that all six of his children received a quality education. I remember him saying “I will train you all to university level and any other furthering after that, the fees will be borne by you.” He meant it and left no stone unturned in accomplishing that. From my nursery years up until my university days, my Daddy conveyed me to and fro.
Even when I went for my NYSC all the way to Akwa Ibom state, he was still there to convey me to the state. Could anyone have sacrificed this much? So many of my friends knew him, and he was very relatable.
He was always a present parent despite his demanding occupation — transportation. His level of care and sacrificial giving were next to none. Meeting him was an experience to all that did because there was always an important life lesson to learn from him.
He and I had a very special relationship, whenever he needed to let off some steam, gist, laugh or even pick unnecessary quarrels, I was his first point of contact. Once, to his older sister and I, he had said “This is Timothy Okoye in woman form.”
Our thoughts, analysis and opinions were similar more than often. And I also cannot forget his strictness and how he didn’t hesitate to dish out discipline when it was needed.
I will really miss you Daddy, and I’m stuck now wondering who my new laughing, joking and shouting partner will be. I will miss our fun, long, weekly calls.
In his wise way, he knew that his work here on Earth was done and when he had a dream of his homecoming, he shared it with me. He also told me of the few things God had wanted him to do and after doing them, he also informed me. That was when I knew that the journey to the hospital was that of no return, and like he told me to, I braced myself for his return to our maker.
Daddy, your wishes for an immediate burial were carried out. No shaking Daddy, because I know you have gone to where you wished to be after that dream.
Goodbye Daddy, I love you.
From your daughter, Ifeoma Uche Iwuajoku