Ode to my Beloved Dad 3

 Someone once told me that grief was in stages. I couldn't quite relate until we lost Ekemini Aviomoh. Years later, it was Ken Whitey Ochei (the funkiest albino ever). Then, the world stopped on October 7 2016 when we lost you. For weeks, I was in denial. Several questions thronged my mind: How could you GO, just like that? Not even a word, no goodbyes. I beseeched God to bring you back and called all my charismatic friends to no avail. Alas, IT WAS OVER, and YOUR RACE HAD BEEN RUN.

Nobody would ever call me 'ALAO' again. This harsh realization keeps hitting home. It's been 7 years, yet the pain persists. I see you in my triumphs and travails. Whenever I behold my boys, I see your face, your smiles, and your mannerisms. Blood is indeed thick. I always have to console myself thus: 'Courage brother, do not stumble, though thy path be dark as night. There's a star to guide the humble. Trust in God, and do the right.

A father's love for his children, though not always expressed is indescribable. The daily sacrifices, those years when you couldn't get yourself new suits while we were well-kitted and never lacked. You drove a simple car, but we were always driven to and from school, away from the rain and sun. You were so proud of us, especially when we came tops in class. I vividly recall one term when 4 of us came 1st, and you photocopied the results for keeps at your office. Your strength and fervor were AWESOME.

We were mostly on different sides in sports, policies, and a whole lot. You supported Manchester United, I loathed them. In 2015, you were pro-GEJ, I was undecided. You loved and lived life to the fullest, and spent quality time in the service of God and humanity. You were a great competitor and transferred your zeal to CMO Zone F who became serial winners in the Father's day contests while you led them. As a firm believer in the COMMON GOOD, you gave yourself freely to causes. You ably represented Aguluezechukwu in the Old Aguata forum, and Anambra State Towns & People's Association. You were a great leader of men, an organizer, and a strategist.

On the day you left us, a huge chunk of my heart went with you. I had to lock my heart at some point, just to cope with the pain. For 5 years, I was your chef, you were my flatmate, confidante, and best friend. All the job offers from Lagos were turned down to stay close to you. The monthly trips from Makurdi (to prepare soups and stew) while serving felt like a waste. I miss our road trips from Abuja to Anambra and Akwa Ibom (buying onions at Giri junction and bananas at Obollo were a constant on those trips). I miss the shouts of 'DINHO' whenever Ronaldinho Gaucho had the ball. If tears could bring you back, I will gladly cry you a river.

My Big Fish, this is a concession letter. my acceptance of the fact that you are gone. It's taken 7 years. I believe God is in control but it still hurts. I couldn't have wished for a better dad. You were the best there was, is, and ever would be. I would resume my language classes today in your honor.

Adios amigos, adieu mon pere, arriverderci, a plus tard, bis spater. I LOVE YOU, BIG FISH 'DOUGLAS' T.O.C Elias-Onunkwo, Shield of the masses. Keep smiling down on us from heaven, and may your gentle soul keep resting in the bosom of our Lord, Jesus. May our lady, Queen of our family, and Queen of our hearts keep interceding for us.

'Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of his Saints'.

Your son,

'Mario' St Val Okey Osita-Onunkwo