Tribute to our lovely dad

He fought the good fight, he finished the course, he kept the faith." — 2 Timothy 4:7. It is with a heart full of grief and gratitude that I write this tribute to the man who was my husband. The one who took me from my village, a young woman with little understanding of the world, and guided me with love, patience, and wisdom. Together, we built a family, a life, and a journey that I now see was ordained by God. From the very beginning, we were more than just husband and wife — we were friends, we were companions, we were like siblings. Our love was not built on quarrels or strife, but on mutual respect and deep understanding. It is rare to find a bond like ours, one where we could live together in harmony, supporting and uplifting each other at every turn.As we raised our children, we were always seeking each other’s counsel. In the early days, our children may have thought you were strict, but today, they are all thankful for the discipline and guidance you gave them. The wisdom you imparted has shaped them into the wonderful people they are today, and they are forever grateful for your love and teachings.I had hoped you would be here longer, to enjoy the fruits of your labor and the rewards of your sacrifices. You were a caring, peaceful, humble, and kind-hearted man. You hated conflict, and instead, you sought peace in all things. Whenever someone was struggling, you would offer encouragement, guidance, and support. You despised laziness and always pushed people to be better, to strive harder, and to reach for their potential. Whether rich or poor, you showed love to everyone, and your giving spirit touched the lives of many.You found joy in serving others and in fostering peace, especially within the church. You were a man who lived for God, and anything that brought peace and unity brought you happiness. You never turned anyone away. Instead, you made sure to bring people together, showing them how to live in harmony with one another. You taught me, by example, that God’s blessings are not for us alone, but that we are called to bless others as well. You were a loving, selfless husband, and I learned so much from you every single day.Your creativity in business, your passion for life, and the way you shared everything with me — your dreams, your plans, your day-to-day struggles and victories — made our relationship so special. I never imagined that death would come so soon to take you from us. There is so much we still had to do, so much we still had to share.You were the best man I could have ever hoped for. The best man to walk this earth, a rare gem whose openness and sincerity touched the lives of everyone you met. You were my first love, my partner, my best friend. You were a man who stood out in every way, a man of integrity, of great character, and of boundless love. You were, and will always remain, the best man I could have ever known.Your departure has left a void in our lives, a space that can never be filled, but I take comfort in knowing that you are now in a better place — a place where there is no pain, no sickness, no suffering, and no sorrow. You are in the presence of our Lord, at peace and free from all earthly burdens.Though our hearts are heavy with the loss, we will carry on, bearing the pain because we know that you are now where you belong, surrounded by God's love. Your legacy will live on in the lives of your children, your family, and all who were touched by your kindness and wisdom.It has pleased the Lord to call you home, and who are we to question His will? My heart aches with the reality that I will no longer see you, hear your voice, or feel your presence beside me. Tears fill my eyes as I remember the precious moments we shared, staying up late into the night, laughing, talking, and simply being together. Those moments will forever be etched in my heart."Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away. May the name of the Lord be praised." — Job 1:21May your gentle soul rest in the bosom of the Lord until we meet again, never to part.With love,Your devoted wife

It’s hard to put into words what you meant to me, Dad. You were my first hero, my safe place, and the heart of our family. Your love was a constant, steady force that carried me through every season of life.

You weren’t just a father; you were a man of incredible faith and compassion. I watched how you trusted God through life’s trials, never wavering in your belief that everything would work out as it was meant to. You taught me to pray through pain, celebrate blessings, and always hold on to hope.

Your heart was as big as the world. You gave freely—your time, your wisdom, and your strength—without ever expecting anything in return. You showed me that true happiness comes from helping others, even when no one else sees the sacrifices you make.

But it wasn’t just your kindness that left an imprint on me—it was your joy. You had this contagious energy that filled every room you entered. Your laughter was the soundtrack of my childhood, and your stories always brought light to even the darkest days. Life never felt heavy when you were around.

Dad, you were the hardest-working person I’ve ever known. You didn’t just work to provide for us—you did it with love, pride, and a fierce determination to give us a better life. You taught me the value of perseverance and to never be afraid of rolling up my sleeves to get the job done.

But what I cherish most is how deeply you loved us. You made sure we never doubted it— not for a single moment. Through every hug, every word of encouragement, and every sacrifice you made, I felt that love, and I still carry it with me.

I miss you, Dad. My heart aches for your presence, your voice, and your laughter. But I promise to live in a way that honors your legacy—helping others, trusting God, and finding joy in the little things.

Thank you for being my father, my guiding light, and my greatest blessing. I will love you forever.

From your peaceable Daughter

Gloria Onyeyirichi Obi-Loveday

I struggle to find the words to express the depth of my sorrow over your departure. Daddy, you fought so hard to stay with us. You sacrificed everything to give us the best life possible. You lived for us, your children, and your love knew no bounds. My heart bleeds, and my spirit is heavy. I have never known such pain—how cruel that death separated us in this world.Who will I call for advice now? Who will listen with the patience and wisdom you had? Who will encourage me to keep striving for the best? You understood the true values of life and always wanted the best for me. Whenever I visited, you would call me “Oge kwukakwuka!”—a name so dear to my heart. You watched over me like an eagle, allowing me to grow through life’s ups and downs while always keeping a protective eye on me.I remember how hard it was for you to pay my school fees. At times, I feared I wouldn’t finish university because of financial struggles. Yet, you worked tirelessly, night and day, to ensure my education was never interrupted. Your support didn’t stop there—you remained my guide, my strength, and my biggest cheerleader.Daddy, you were more than just a parent; you were love in human form—overflowing with kindness, light, and generosity. You touched the lives of everyone around you, always bringing solutions and making peace. Your honesty paved the path I now walk, making it clear that this family must serve the Lord."Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it." – Proverbs 22:6I remember how you woke the entire family in the early hours of the morning for devotion. Your love for God was unwavering. Even when there was no transportation, you encouraged us to walk to church. The only social gathering you truly cherished was church—joining the choir, attending programs, and serving the Lord. You taught me to walk by faith and not by sight."For we walk by faith, not by sight." – 2 Corinthians 5:7I cherish the times you shared stories of the Biafra war and the history of our country’s politics. You were my real-life hero—the person I looked up to. Through your life, I saw the power of faith and resilience. You were a testimony that "what God cannot do does not exist."It pains me deeply that you did not live long enough to enjoy the fruits of your labor. But one thing is certain—you will never be forgotten. Your legacy will live on in my heart and in the lives of those you touched."The memory of the righteous is a blessing." – Proverbs 10:7Sleep well, my Daddy. Rest in peace, my Hero. You will be greatly missed.Your Daughter
Ogechi

My dearest Dad, as I try to put my feelings into words, all I can think about is how much I miss you and how deeply I love you. Now that you’re no longer with us, I know my life will never be the same. You were everything to me and did so much for me, always watching over me like a guardian angel since I was a child. Words fail me at a time like this—my heart is truly broken as I mourn your passing.

When I heard the news, my heart shattered into a million pieces. I still remember the special nickname you always called me: “Sco Sco.” Now that you’re gone, who will call me that? The year 2024 ended in sadness, and I still struggle to accept that I won’t see you again. This is not how I imagined you leaving us, and it hurts to realize you won’t be here for us, your children, after working so hard to raise us.

Your life, your influence, and your energy are woven into mine forever. Lately, I’ve been taking trips down memory lane, feeling grateful that God allowed me to call you my father. You were a dad who loved his family deeply, who worked tirelessly to provide for us, who raised us in the way of the Lord, who was always ready to help, who made peace wherever he went, and who led by example. You were a good husband to our mum, a devoted father to me, a true businessman, and my number one friend and role model. I once believed there was nothing you couldn’t do—except, of course, avoid death.

There are so many memories I could share that even a book wouldn’t be enough. I recall how you often scolded us, especially in public, when we were younger. Back then, I thought you didn’t love us enough, but now I see it was your way of guiding us to become better people. If only you could see the tears we’ve shed since you left. You are irreplaceable, Dad, and even those beyond our family feel the sadness of your absence.

I write this tribute with tear-filled eyes and a heavy heart, but I find comfort knowing you’re no longer in pain or suffering. The Lord consoles me every day with thoughts of the worthy life you lived. Above all, I believe you are resting in His bosom, and I ask you to keep watching over our family.

I love you, Dad. Rest in peace until we meet again, never to part.

Daddy’s Girl
“Sco Sco”
Nkechi Obi

Dad, 
There are no words that could fully capture the depth of my love and gratitude for you, but I will try my best to honour you, as you’ve always honoured us. I still can’t quite believe you’re gone. Every morning, I long for those moments when you'd drive me to school, those simple, yet priceless, memories that I now hold close to my heart. I wish I could turn back time and relive those mornings, the conversations we had, the laughter we shared, and the unspoken love you showed with every mile.You were the first person who truly believed in me. Your pride in me was like a beacon, guiding me when I doubted myself, and your faith in my potential helped me realise that I am capable of more than I ever thought possible. You taught me to believe in myself, something I hadn’t been able to do before. To know that you were proud of me was the greatest gift I could have received. No one has ever been prouder, and no one ever will be.You were, and still are, my hero. My mentor. My safe haven. There was never a day when I didn't feel your love, your protection, and your unwavering support. You taught me the importance of respect, that while we should never fear others, we must always respect them. This lesson is one I carry with me, and it shapes how I interact with the world every day.You gave us more than just a roof over our heads. You gave us a life filled with meaning, purpose, and love. You made sure we had the best education and guided us through life’s challenges with wisdom and grace. You taught us what family truly means, and I have never once doubted the strength of our bond because of the foundation you built. You showed us how important it is to be present in each other’s lives, and how the little moments, like you being home every day by 5pm, are what truly matter. Your consistency, your presence, was a gift that we all cherished deeply.You made us understand the value of time and how to use it wisely. Your life was a testament to this. You worked hard, you loved deeply, and you lived with purpose. The home you created for us was filled with joy and laughter, and there was always a sense of security because of the stability you provided. You gave us a wonderful family, and I will forever be grateful for that.Your storytelling ability was unparalleled. I could listen to your stories for hours, and I did. Every detail, every word, was filled with life, and you had this unique way of making every moment feel so important, so memorable. You knew how to make us laugh, how to make us think, and how to keep us engaged. Those stories are etched in my heart forever, and they are something I will carry with me always.But more than anything, you taught us about faith. You taught us to love God, to believe in Jesus, and to live a life of kindness, compassion, and integrity. Because of you, I am a good person. Because of you, I know how to love, how to give, and how to live a life that makes the world a little better. I am strong because I’ve seen you be strong in the face of adversity, and I am fearless because I watched you take on life with a strength and courage that I can only aspire to.You protected us fiercely, always ensuring that we felt safe, loved, and cared for. You made us proud to call you our father, and I will carry that pride with me for the rest of my life. You gave us everything, and in return, we will never stop honouring your memory, your lessons, and your love.Dad, I miss you more than words can say. The hole you’ve left in my life is immense, but I take comfort in knowing that everything you taught me, everything you gave me, will stay with me forever. You were more than a father – you were a guide, a friend, and a hero. And while you may no longer be physically with us, your spirit, your wisdom, and your love will continue to live on in us.Thank you for being the incredible father that you were. I will continue to make you proud. I will continue to carry your legacy in everything I do. You will always be my hero, my mentor, and my dad.Rest in peace, Dad. I love you, and I always will.Nmesoma Stephanie Obi

Daddy,
It’s so hard to believe you’re gone. Every day, I wish I could wake up and find that this has all been a terrible dream—one I could simply forget. But the painful reality is that you’re truly no longer with us. Words cannot begin to describe the deep void you’ve left in our hearts. Only God understands why it had to happen now, and He alone can truly comfort us and fill the pain left by your departure.

I remember your laughter, your jokes, your stern warnings, the way you carried yourself with such warmth, and those dance steps that made us all erupt in laughter whenever we had family time. You were a role model to me, and I promise today that I will hold on to your advice and teachings. I must make you proud. Daddy, continue to guide and protect me from Heaven.

You were a giver at heart, always ready to help anyone in need, even if it meant giving your last penny. You were a friend to many, a loving brother who cared deeply for his siblings, and a devoted father who cherished his children. Although we may not have fully understood the depth of your love until the very end, you were always there for us—ever willing to go the extra mile to ensure we had the best you could offer.

I recall vividly how you would, on many occasions, take me to places where I could learn and grow in both wisdom and knowledge—always striving to give me the understanding I needed. You were truly selfless, putting family and friends first while placing yourself second. You worked hard so that we could enjoy a better life than you had.

It pains me deeply that you didn’t get to enjoy the smooth, beautiful life you deserved, but no words can fully capture your legacy or the profound impact you had on those around you. I wish I could turn back time and bring you back to us, Daddy.

Death has dealt us a cruel blow, yet our consolation is that you now rest in the bosom of the Lord, at His right hand. We hold on to the hope of seeing you again on the resurrection morning. You are not gone, Daddy; you are simply asleep and resting in a far better place than where we are. I can almost imagine you telling us not to worry about your passing, because it has led you to a place of perfect peace.

Keep resting, Daddy, until we meet again, never to part.

Your Ada,
Chika Obi

Daddy,

It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that I write this tribute. The news of your passing came as an unbelievable shock—one I desperately wished were not true. Yet, as painful as it is, I must accept this undeniable reality.

I wish you had stayed with us a little longer. You were a great man—an embodiment of grace, joy, wisdom, kindness, and selflessness. You were an inspiration, touching countless lives with your generosity and unwavering support. You always sought to bring solutions to people’s challenges, providing them the platform and encouragement to excel.

Your life was a shining example of faith, service, and hospitality, evident to everyone who had the privilege of knowing you. Although you are no longer with us, your legacy will live on, and your good works will continue to speak for you among the living.

Until we meet again, may God hold you in His everlasting embrace and reward you with many crowns of glory.

Daddy, words cannot fully express my love and gratitude for you. I love you deeply.

Goodbye, my dear father.

With love,
Your daughter,
Ijeoma Obi Okafor

Dear Dad,

Some say time heals, but missing you feels like yesterday. Ochiagha 1, my great father, you weren't just my father – you were my guiding light, my Nnam Oke-nmadu, the one who showed me right from wrong, helped me through tough times, and became the person I always wanted to be like.

I can still hear your laugh filling up the house – that big, warm laugh that made everyone smile. I'd give anything to hear that laugh again. Odogwu nwoke obodoji eje mba, your presence lit up every room you entered, bringing warmth and wisdom wherever you went. Your door was always open to neighbors seeking advice, and your hands were always ready to lift those in need. The whole community found shelter in your kindness.

The memories we shared are forever etched in my heart. I remember us singing together since I was little – your love for music sparked the talent that lives in me today. Those swimming lessons, and oh, those "Oriental" dance moves of yours still make me smile. I can still picture you on the soccer field, playing with the village team and the church men's group. Your dribbling skills, even at that age, made me fall in love with the beautiful game. But above all, Dad, your deep love for God planted in us an unshakeable faith that continues to guide our path.

Life's biggest lessons came from just watching you. The way you loved Mom showed me what real love looks like. Your success in business never changed your humble heart. How you'd quietly help people when they were down, or drop everything to help a friend in need – these weren't just things you did, they were lessons you taught me without saying a word.

Even in your last days, when you were sick, you were still being you. Always checking if Mom was eating enough, asking if I was taking care of myself, trying to make everyone smile. That was just your way – thinking of others before yourself, right to the end. How I wish we had more time together, but as you always taught us to believe, God knows best.

These days, I still reach for my phone to call you when good things happen, or when I'm stuck and need advice. That urge to share everything with you is still there. In quiet moments, I can almost hear you saying, "You've got this, kid. Just do what's right."

Dad, I know you're at peace now, safe in God's arms. Like we always said, "Sleep on till we meet again." Until then, I'm trying my best to make you proud and live the way you taught me. Your legacy as a business tycoon is remembered, but your legacy as a loving father, community pillar, and generous soul shines even brighter. The stories people still tell about your kindness and leadership remind me how blessed we were to have you.

If I could pick any father in the world, a million times over, I'd still choose you. Thank you for being my father, my friend, and my hero.

Until we meet again, Your First Son. Chima

It is with a sorrowful heart that I write this tribute. Your passing still feels unbelievable, and every day, I pray that this is just a dream. Some days, I hear your voice and turn to see your face, only to realize, with a heavy heart, that the sound has faded away.Dad, so many memories flood my mind whenever I speak your name—our time together, the plans we made, how you always carried everyone along, and how you made sure we stayed on the right track.Who will I turn to now for answers when life feels confusing? Who will be there to stand by me when I feel too weary to move forward?Dad, if I could turn back time and hear your voice just once more, I would tell you that, out of all the dads in the world, you would always be my choice.You were a man whose love, strength, and wisdom shaped not just my life, but the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know you. You were a guiding light, a source of unwavering support, and my greatest teacher. You taught me the value of hard work, the importance of integrity, and the power of resilience.You listened without judgment, offered advice without hesitation, and made everyone around you feel valued.As I reflect on your passing, I am filled with deep gratitude for the memories we shared together. Thank you, Dad, for being my rock, my mentor, and my hero. I will strive every day to honor your memory and make you proud. You may be gone, but you will never be forgotten.Rest in peace, Dad. You will always be in my heart.With love
Your daughter, Favour Okwundu Obi

Saying my heart is heavy would be an understatement. No words can truly capture the depth of my grief. How do I even begin? Who do I tell?With a heart full of love and gratitude, I take this moment to honor my late father—a man after God’s heart, whose life was a testament to kindness, strength, and unwavering dedication. You were a man who sacrificed everything to ensure that your children and everyone around you received the best. Losing you has left a void that can never truly be filled. Even when I try to be strong, the pain pierces my heart deeply.I called you My Man because you were more than just a father—you were my mentor, my protector, a visionary, and my greatest inspiration. I always admired your wisdom and how your words could calm even the most intense situations. Every word that came from your mouth carried power and grace—I know it had to be from God. Your guidance and unconditional love shaped me into the person I am today. You instilled in me the values of hard work, integrity, and faith. I could talk about you all day because you were truly a blessing.Only you called me Nwa-mazi—hearing that from you always lifted my spirit. Now that you are gone, no one else will call me Nwa-mazi the way you did, and that void in my heart remains unfilled.Even in your absence, your lessons live on within me. Your unwavering faith in God, your resilience in the face of challenges, and your boundless love continue to guide me. Though I can no longer hear your voice with my ears, I hear it in my heart and feel your presence in every decision I make.Your spirit lives on within me and in the countless lives you touched. While I miss you every day, I find comfort in knowing that you are with the Lord, seated in heavenly places.Rest in peace, my beloved father. You are deeply missed and forever loved.With love,
Your Last Son, Ifeanyi Kingsley Obi