TRIBUTE BY VALENTINE IGBAFE

It has been a dream I wake up every day to face the reality. Everyone who came in contact with you has a good story to tell, you were a man full of life, your sense of humor can not be compared, a Professor of Professors, an erudite scholar, a great Historian who pioneered academic excellence in various aspects, an orator par excellence unequaled and unparalleled, a man who spent so many years of his employment life writing and reading citations for others.The past three months were tough no one can deny that fact. I watched you fight for life, all through you were strong and never showed any signs of weakness, even in your sick bed every one who came around has a good story to tell and also learnt from your fountain of knowledge. I remembered when you used the word VAGUE and one of the nurses said she has to consult her dictionary for the meaning. We were confident you will come out strong and continue with your book, you also promised to give a complimentary copy to the Doctor once you were back on your feet. All these never came to pass and we cant question God because Him alone knows the end from the beginning. I give God all the glory because you lived a fulfilled life. You came, you saw and you conquered. I left you on Sunday evening and promised you I will come back, you smiled that your usual smile and said Osomhi (that is ok) rua aviomoh(greet the little child).I never knew that will be the last time you will smile at me. Just for me to receive call few hours later that you have gone to be with the Lord. It was a big blow. I must confess that it has not been easy bearing the pain of your departure as I wake up every day to face the reality. Thank you for everything you have done, for the lives you imparted. We take solace in the word of God and are convinced you are resting in the bosom of the Lord. Adieu My Mentor Prof P.A Igbafe FHSN, MFR, PROFESSOR EMERITUS