Albert Echezona

Daddy, you brought smiles to so many people during your time on earth. My heart is broken that your life ended the way it did. You have left a hole in our lives that can never be filled.

Before you died, I spoke to you every day just to hear your voice as you called me "Bendoo." Every time we spoke, you always asked about your grandchildren—that was always the first thing on your mind.

Since the 14th of November 2025, the day evil came calling, that voice was silenced. I cannot imagine what you went through during that barbaric attack. Only God knows why it had to happen this way.

Your memory, and that bright smile of yours, will stay with me for the rest of my life. I will never forget you. I have no regrets about you been my father.

Rest on, Daddy, until we meet again to part no more.

Late Mr. Albert Okwuoma passing leaves a void that cannot be easily filled, not just in our family, but particularly in my own life. He was more than a grand uncle; he was a mentor, a confidant, and a guiding light who profoundly shaped my professional journey and personal aspirations.

What made Grand Uncle Albert's guidance particularly impactful for me was his unique position within our family. He was, for a long time, the sole individual to have ventured into and succeeded in the banking sector. This made him a trailblazer, and his experiences were invaluable.

When I decided to pursue a career in banking, he became an indispensable resource. He welcomed my decision with enthusiasm and, without hesitation, shared the "secrets of success" in the industry. This continued mentorship, even from a distance, underscored his genuine care and his belief in the importance of passing on knowledge and experience.

I will forever cherish the memories of our conversations, his encouraging words, and the invaluable lessons he imparted. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit of wisdom, diligence, and generosity will continue to inspire me to be a better person and to work hard, striving for the greatness he always believed I could achieve.

Rest in peace my dearest grand uncle.

It is with a heavy heart and profound gratitude that I pen this tribute to my dear uncle, Mr. Albert Okwuoma. His passing leaves a void that cannot be easily filled, but his memory will forever be a source of comfort and inspiration.

Uncle Albert was more than just an uncle; he was a gentle giant, a steadfast presence, and a cherished figure in my formative years and beyond. My secondary school holidays were inextricably linked with Uncle Albert's home. Those periods were not merely breaks from academic rigor; they were immersive experiences in warmth, laughter, and the quiet wisdom he exuded.

His house was a sanctuary, a place where I felt safe, loved, and always welcome. The memories of those holidays are vivid and cherished, painting a picture of a man who effortlessly created an environment of belonging for everyone under his roof.

He possessed a remarkable ability to make each individual feel seen and valued. Even after his retirement and subsequent move to Boji-Boji, our bond deepened. The geographical proximity allowed for more frequent interactions, and it was during this time that I truly came to appreciate the depth of his character.

I recall with fondness the simple act of preparing sweet corn puddy and sending it to him for lunch, a small gesture that symbolized the affection and respect I held for him.

Uncle Albert's gentleness was a defining characteristic. It wasn't a weakness, but rather a profound strength that allowed him to navigate life with grace and empathy. The absence of his gentleness and presence will be deeply felt.

He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, integrity, and unwavering support. While the pain of his loss is immense, I find solace in the countless memories we shared and the indelible mark he left on my life.

Rest in peace, dear Uncle Albert. You will be profoundly missed, but never forgotten.

When the usual early morning phone calls from you didn't come, I knew something was wrong. I thought probably the phone was faulty until the shocking news. Daddy was a peaceful man aging gracefully and waiting for God's own appointed time. We all did too but prayed quietly for that appointed time to be prolonged in good health. We never reckoned with the devil's plan. We were caught unaware and the unthinkable happened.

Now in tears with regret of many 'ifs and had I known'... Writing this tribute took a lot of willpower. Where do I start? Writing about you is writing my history, significant part. As I walk your footprints. You shaped my life.

You took control of my life and destiny one morning in the early 1970s in Obiaruku when you said to me 'go and put on your clothes. I am taking you with me. That was it. Like a dirty raw gold, you took me through the hot and cold processes to become what I am today. THANK YOU DADDY

You took me round the Midwest, later Bendel state and Nigeria in the course of your career. As you did this, you were quietly teaching me hard work, diligence, integrity, and contentment. You taught me patience, tolerance and forgiveness.

You made me understand that no matter how busy you were, you never joked with the family. The family was always first. Strict discipline was your policy. You taught me to respect other people's opinions as long as they don't infringe on your life.

DADDY, I am living the life you taught me. A life of contentment in the midst of corrupt inducement. A quiet life.

When my father died a few years ago, I didn't feel it because you were the father I knew. Now I have lost a father.

As you rest finally with the Lord, we pray that he receives your gentle soul perfectly until we meet again to part no more.

Today, we honor and remember my father, a man whose life was defined by gentleness, love, and unwavering care for everyone around him. He was a gentle man, soft-spoken in spirit, kind in his ways, and thoughtful in his actions. His strength was never loud or forceful. It was found in his patience, his calm presence, and in the quiet way he made people feel safe, seen, and valued.

As a father, he was always the first to reach out. He never waited for distance to grow; he bridged it with love. When he called, he would say, "Hello, my baby!" Those words meant everything. I will miss his phone calls deeply, the sound of his voice, the reassurance in his greeting, and the love that came so naturally from him.

To his friends, he was more than a companion; he was a solid and dependable friend. Loyal, trustworthy, and present, he showed up not only in moments of laughter and celebration but also in times of difficulty. His friendships were built on sincerity, respect, and genuine care, and he gave of himself freely without expecting anything in return.

He was also a provider in every sense of the word. He worked diligently, sacrificed quietly, and ensured that those he loved were supported. Beyond providing materially, he gave guidance, stability, encouragement, and love, gifts far greater than anything money could buy, and gifts that will continue to shape our lives long after his passing.

Though he is no longer with us physically, the values he lived by, the love he shared, and the many lives he touched remain. His legacy lives on in us his children, in his friends, and in the countless memories that will forever live in our hearts.

We are grateful for his life. We honor his journey. And we will carry him with us always. Rest in peace Daddy.

Kai-kai, "the whole round table is dissolved and I am left alone companionless". My friend, now late, Okparan Albert E. Okwuoma, was a true friend. We both lived together as inseparable friends all through our lives. We are together in primary school, teachers training colleges and in the university.

Kai-Kai you were like a brother to me and you played a significant role in my academic pursuit. We did everything together save. We belonged to different religious beliefs and so married separate wives which was sacrosanct.

Kai-kai your death was too much for words and very shocking. Nevertheless, the book of Galatians chapter 6 verse 7 says, "do not be deceived, God is not mocked, for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap". This is the consolation of those who suffer innocently.

MAY YOUR SOUL REST IN PERFECT PEACE.