Tributes
A Tribute To My Husband (lfe Nyere Oge)
Ecclesiastes says 'There's an appointed time for everything under heaven. A time to give birth, and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot the plant(lfe Nere Oge) that was your name.
Difu, your glorious transition echoed in the air, our eyes filled with tears, but in pain we are comforted, knowing we are not alone in this time of grief.
Difu, we shared so much together, both the good and the bad. Things may never be the same without you gone, but the world is better for the years you lived.
You were a father figure to an extended family, always ready to give advice and help to all and sundry. The lessons you imparted and the memories you created will continue to shape and guide the family, years to come.
You were a guiding light offering support and guidance to family members.
When God saved him and the family from being massacred in Kano, he took a decision after the enthronment of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary in our home on the 30th April 1999(25years ago). He made a pledge to work for God,
At Aba, he made up his mind to propergate the Association at Owerri, he made true his vow after attaining the post of Archdiocesan President by carrying the Association light to many parishes and surrounding colleges, where many were solemnely admitted.
Difu, you touched so many lives despite the fact that many repaid you with evil, you did not relent.
He had a strong unwavering faith in God. He stood his ground, despite all efforts made by "friends and enemies" to make him deviate from his stand against "lkeye Nmuo".
Finally, the light has dimmed, the inevitable fate for all mortals. Your death, we accept as God's decision , though we are pained and grieve at your departure from this earth, we are consoled that your transition is to a better place without pain and sorrow.
To show that God was with him, he died peacefully in the early hours of Sunday 21st April. The light on the Alter of the Sacred Heart of Jesus & the Immaculate Heart of Mary went off that very night.
Difu, you fought a very good fight, and have gone to receive your crown of Glory from our maker.
Adieu, my dear Husband. Good Night.
Ngozi Irene EzembaWife
A Tribute to My Dad; A Very Wise Man, My Hero!
(The teacher, priest and king of our family)
I have been on autopilot since your passing.
For the very first time, it is just beginning to dawn on me that one can’t really get out of life alive.
Since my very first cry and from the moment I opened my eyes at birth, you have always been there.
I naively assumed that you will always be there.
I guess somehow, I hoped for a Genesis 5:24 or a 2 Kings 2:11. Knowing your simple ways and that if you had a choice, you would have chosen Genesis 5:24.
“Ife njere oge!” bu afa ekeneyi. I struggle to believe it was your time to leave us.
That I will not hear your voice say,”Hellooo Chiedu” in that special pitch, whenever you answer my phone call.
That I will not hear you favourite exclamations:
Jishin’ike!, Unu agbanie na!, Oboru ni!, Nodini nk’oma! –when encouraging my siblings and I.
Egwooo!, Ugwuta kwa nie! –when something happens,
Beautiful!, Wonderful! – When you see excellence in operation.
Olia?- When your meet your friends
However, I am grateful for all the years we had you with us.
I am grateful that your passing was peaceful.
All through my life, you have guided me with your wise words, advice, and counsel. More often than not, I have been burnt by the ones I didn’t heed. As the saying goes, “What an elder sees while sitting down, a child on top a palm tree will not see it”.
As I listen to you tell the stories of your childhood and youth, I have a better understanding of who I am.
Something wells up inside of me and I say to myself, ”Yeah, I am my father’s daughter”.
I have so much to say but words fail me at this point.
All I can say for now is:
Mbona for being you!
Mbona for all you did for me and our family!
Mbona for being who you were to me and our family!
Mbona for modeling honest hard-work, love for knowledge, love for family, love for God.
Je nk’oma daddy!
Ka chi bua! Good night dad!
Ani yafu n’ututu! See you in the morning!
Love you to infinity. From: Ada didim, Ada Teacher Ezemba, My father’s daughter- Chiedu
Chiedu EzembaDaughter
I dont like writing tributes, Ive tried to push this away for as long as can, but it must be done. It’s like the final good-bye to a loved, no one really wants that.
The real worth of a Man lies in the number of lives he touches/influences.
A lot of people also say that they haven’t met a true life hero, and I tell them, you havent met my Dad.
Ife nyere oge 1 of Oguta, the Man I am so proud and privillaged to call my father definitely is a real hero,the stories of his life and all he had to go through to become whom he is, is quite inspiring. And the fact life experiences didnt diminish his love for God, people and the Church. My father loved so much that
everyone he carne in contact with testified about his warmth, infectious extravagant laughter, wisdom and dedication to God and the catholic church.
Its hard writing about him in past tense, He was such a peaceful person, always choosing peace, no matter the provocation, his love for education was second to none, and always lent a helping hand to whoever needed it, A real educator, always impacting positive values on anyone that was ready to listen,
many great men have been privy to this his attributes that has helped shape their lives and those of all he called family.
I am ever gratefull to God for bequeatting me with such a father and mentor, i can remember in my teens,when people hear me speak, they’d ask me my age, because according to them, i spoke like a wise old man . I always told them it was because i stayed long with my father.
I know we are meant to give thanks for everything, Dads passing will take me a while. I am grateful for all the beautiful years I had with him.
I'm grateful that he helped mold me into me.
I'm grateful that he knew my kids, and was very proud of them.
I'm grateful for his blessings which are priceless.
I'm grateful that I had the opportunity to hug him one last time before he left us.
I'm grateful to be the daughter of a real life legend.
Rest well Dad, we all love and miss you. Till we meet again
Ngozi Chika EzembaDaughter
**Tribute to my Dad: My mentor.**Dear dad, though you're gone to the greater beyond, I cannot begin to imagine how much I will miss you...in everyway; your voice, words of wisdom, and especially your prayers.. to mention but a few.
'Teacher', as you were fondly called by many, you were indeed a wealth of knowledge. You never ceased to educate, advice and profer solutions were need be.
A rare gem and gift you truly were to us and people around you.
Growing up under your guidance, I have never seen a more hardworking man!
A virtue I have learnt to cultivate.
You always said " Hard work doesn't kill, but makes you stronger",.. this has made me who I am and taught me never to give up.
I will forever be greatfull that you were my dad.
I am thankful for all you did for us, your guidance and love through the time we shared.
You fought a good fight, now it is our turn to continue in your stead.
You will forever be in our hearts.
Good night dear dad. We love you!!
Ka chi buo... Ife nwere Oge!
Ogedi EzembaDaughter
Dear Dad,
It's been so difficult for me to write to you one last time. I'm still trying to come to terms with the fact that you're no longer physically here with us.
Just the other day I was talking with a colleague and suddenly blurted out "I need to call my Dad!" But then reality struck me. Dad's no longer here! I miss you terribly. We had such a unique relationship you and I. You had such a huge capacity to love and care for everyone around you.
My first love, my mentor, my number 1 cheerleader. Oh how you celebrated my wins and how you couldn't wait to brag about my achievements every time I hit a major milestone.
My favorite pen pal, I still have all those letters you wrote me while I was in school. Those words of wisdom so lovingly penned down will never be forgotten. I am the woman I am today because of the huge impact your love and teachings had on me. I'm so glad I get to keep those bits of you with me for the rest of my life.
Teacher, as you were so fondly called by everyone who knew you! I've never been more proud to have had such a remarkable man as my father. I'm proud of the name I bear. Ezemba's daughter! Your legacy will truly live on not just in us your children and grandchildren, but all those whose lives you touched immensely!
"Ife nwere oge", you truly were a great man and the world is lucky to have had you for the time it did. Heaven has gained so much more with you in it. And thank you so much for being such a loving grand dad and inspiration to Chimdi.
We love you, we miss you dearly. Till we meet again.
Caroline EzembaDaughter
**Tribute to My Role Model and Father**
It took me exactly one month to write the first line of this tribute, and I am grateful to have found the strength to do so. Reflecting on the numerous messages and calls from friends and well-wishers, one word consistently stood out: GOOD. Others described him as HUMBLE, and some called him a TEACHER. My dad was all these and so much more.
He was a good man who always sought the progress of everyone around him. He shared even when he had little and ensured that everyone around him was happy. This goodness was instilled in all of us, his children. Your life here on earth will never be forgotten.
You were humble to the core. I once sat down to think about all the time I have lived with you, and it dawned on me that I have never heard or witnessed you raise your voice to your beautiful wife. You never sought any grand titles for yourself but embraced the simple and profound ones: IFE NYERE OGE and TEACHER. These titles, I will adopt myself because you taught us that nothing is better in this world than being yourself and having the patience to let things fall into place as we work hard toward them.
You taught us that hard work always reaps rewards. Growing up in Aba, you instilled in us the value of hard work by buying us hoes, shovels, and rakes instead of fancy toys. We dreaded weekends because we spent them on the farms you kept acquiring around us, but today, we understand the invaluable lessons you imparted.
I will miss your encouragement and the small talks that always motivated me to achieve my goals. I remember you calling me whenever you noticed I was becoming complacent. You would always say, "Chigozie, this is not you. Why are you relaxed? Get up and move." Now that you are gone, I will miss you deeply. Your voice in my head will continue to push me whenever I feel relaxed.
I am grateful for the gift of knowledge, the gift of contentment, the gift of humility, and, most importantly, the gift of being your son. I know you are in a better place, rejoicing and proclaiming, "I did it all. I lived and I owned every second that this world could give."
Rest well, my teacher.
Chigozie EzembaSon
**Tribute to My Father**
I have been dreading this day, but as some will say, "life happens." You are gone but will never be forgotten. You once said the graveyard is filled with unfulfilled talents, but you did the opposite. You went through life touching souls in ways unimaginable. You sowed seeds of hope, courage, and love in every heart you encountered. God will be proud to have you in His vineyard.
The lessons I learned from you are immeasurable. You taught me things I could never have learned from anyone else. You guided my path and showed me the right way. I speak not only for myself but for others whose lives you touched. You have been a beacon of hope and a great leader. I am proud to be called your son.
You persevered in places many dare not tread, making a name for yourself despite humble beginnings. To call you a great man is an understatement; you are one of the few who came to earth and left an indelible mark. You are, and always will be, one of the greatest blessings in my life. Your lessons are my most treasured possession.
Thank you for all you have done. Rest in peace, my father. Pray for us with our Heavenly Father as you always have. May your gentle soul continue to shine in the bosom of our Lord Jesus. Amen.
Tochukwu EzembaSon
Tribute to my hero ❤️
April 21st, a day I will always remember in sadness. I don't think that I have accepted that I won't see you again.
I have been going down memory lane and I am proud that I was given the opportunity to call you my father. A man who loves his family deeply. A man who worked hard to take care of his family. A man who brought us up in the way of the Lord. A man who was willing to lend a helping hand, A husband, A father, A friend, A man who was and is my number 1 role model( I wish you had stayed a bit to witness my graduation). I never thought there was anything you couldn't do if you wanted to Dad.
There are so many memories to speak about but that would need more than a book to write it in. My favorite place in our house at oguta was the corridor, you would always sit on the chair while I sat at your feet, then I would say with excitement, daddy tell me the story of how oguta was created, and with that twinkle in your eyes, you would clear your throat and begin the beautiful story of how oguta was founded. No matter how many times I asked you were always willing to take me on a journey of tales by moonlight. That corridor would always hold a lot memories for me...
My eyes are filled with tears and a heavy heart , but the Lord comforts me, my siblings and mum daily with thoughts of the life you have lived, a life worthy of emulation. I believe above all things that you are in the Lord's bosom and I only ask for you to watch over your family.
Rest in peace Daddy till we meet to part no more.
I will always remain your Sunflower( the name you called me when you blessed me) Jane❤️
Jane MejuluDaughter
Dear Didi,
As I reflect on the past eight years, my heart fills with gratitude and admiration for the incredible father-in-law you have been. From the very beginning, you welcomed me into the family with open arms and a heart full of kindness. Your unwavering support and genuine care have been a constant source of strength and inspiration.
You celebrated every milestone and accomplishment with us, no matter how big or small, always sharing in our joy over the phone. Your enthusiasm and encouragement during these conversations add an extra layer of happiness to our successes, making these moments even more special. Your presence in our lives even from a distance, has made a profound impact.
Your daily prayers for us are a testament to your deep love and faith. Knowing that you are always keeping us in your thoughts and prayers brings immense comfort and reassurance. Your spiritual guidance has been a beacon of light, especially during challenging times, reminding us of the power of faith and hope.
As I think about the future, I deeply wish that you had the chance to spend time with your grandchildren physically, creating cherished memories with them. I hoped they could experience firsthand the love, wisdom, and warmth that you have always shown us. I looked forward to the day they could sit on your knee, listen to your stories, and feel the embrace of your love.
Though God has called you home, your spirit lives on in our hearts. We will keep your memory alive by sharing your stories, your values, and your faith with your grandchildren. They will know the incredible man you were and the immense love you had for them.
Thank you for being such a remarkable father-in-law and for the love you poured into our lives every day. Your legacy of love, faith, and celebration is something I treasure deeply.
With heartfelt gratitude and love,
Chisom EzembaDaughter in-law
‘In loving memory of my grandpa, a man of remarkable intelligence, whose caring nature touched the lives of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his love and wisdom will forever remain in our hearts. Love you grandpa.
Onyinyechi OsujiGrand Daughter
In loving memory of our grandfather. Mr Christopher Ezeniba
Grandpa was a man of hope and inspiration in our life. He always toldme thatas long as we are family, we should take care of each other, you always put others before you and you valued education
Uchechi Aidrenne OsujiGrand Daughter
Tribute to Grandpa
Grandpa, your demise came to me as a great shock, one I'm still trying to come to terms with, although we were not opportuned to spend as much time with you as we would have loved. We learned a lot about you from our Mom.
We know you are with the angels now, and with God free of all pain. We love you Grandpa, rest in the bossom of the Lord.
Ebuka, Chisom and Chimaobim AkpuoyeGrand Children
Dear Grandad, I am sure you are in a place we all want to be. I wish I could still be with you. Your death was not in vain. I still remember the times we used to spend together in the corridor, such good times. As i am now in boarding school, I won't have much time. I will try my best to become a great man with a golden heart just like you.
I love you.
Ethan OkamGrand Son
Dear Grandpa,
Good morning. I miss you, and I love you. How are you? What happened?
Mummy said we can't talk on the phone with you.
I wanted to tell you I can now add 245+ 431= 676. Good night grandpa, I love you.
Raphael MejuluGrand Son
Grandpa I miss you
Grandpa I love you
Grandpa you're the best
I am going to get 20 smiley faces for you when I do good in the class.
Annabel MejuluGrand Daughter
Dear Grandpa,
Though we've never met face-to-face, our Sunday phone calls have become a cherished part of my week, a tradition that feels as comforting as a warm hug. Through the miles that separate us, your voice has been a constant source of joy and love.
Even though we haven’t met in person, we feel your presence in our lives every day. We imagine the sparkle in your eyes as you laugh and the warmth of your smile. We look forward to the day we can finally meet, but until then, We treasure our phone calls and the bond we’ve built through them.
Otito, Naeto and KobiGrand Children
**Honouring the Legacy of Mr. Christopher Chukwudifu Adizua Ezemba Aka Teacher Ezemba**
In the gentle embrace of memories and the tender glow of love, we gather to pay homage to a man, whose presence graced our lives with immeasurable blessings. My brother, transcended beyond the confines of familial bonds to become a beacon of light and love to all who knew him.
I was not up to school age when I started living with my brother. At that age I could barely wash the dishes or my own clothes. He took me with him, when he started teaching at Egbu primary school, he will take me to school on his rally bicycle. We moved on to Calabari Beach when he was posted to the primary school there. He later secured appointment to teach at Obiako Memorial Secondary School where we lived in the teachers’ quarters until Nigeria Biafra civil war broke out. After the war he moved to Sokoto for better opportunities. I waited behind to finish my secondary school education and did not waste any time joining him immediately I finished. It’s obvious that my growing up was entirely wrapped around my brother, he was more than a brother to me he was a father.
Brother, your unwavering support was my guiding force and a great inspiration. Your nurturing embrace provided shelter from life's storms, your wisdom illuminated the path ahead, and your love nurtured my soul with warmth and tenderness.
Your presence, though now veiled in the midst of memory, continues to weave its way through the tapestry of our lives, leaving behind a legacy of love and compassion that will endure for generations to come. Your words of courage still echo in the corridors of our hearts, your kindness continues to inspire acts of generosity, and your strength serves as a beacon of hope in times of uncertainty.
Today, as we bid farewell to your earthly form, we do not mourn your passing, but celebrate the extra ordinary life you lived. Your legacy lives on in the lives you touched, the hearts you healed, and the love you bestowed upon us all.
Though you may have taken your leave from this world, your spirit remains sever-present, guiding us with a gentle hand and whispering words of comfort in the depths of our souls. Rest peacefully, my dear brother, knowing that your love will forever be etched into the fabric of our lives.
With heart felt gratitude and undying love
Paul EzembaBrother
Hmmm! Onye Okei, Na wa ooo!!!!
You just left without saying goodbye!
Accepting the fact that you’ve gone to the great beyond is just very difficult for me, but I thank God for your life. You were such a good and godly man. You were a peace-maker, always happy to see people make progress in life and above all, you loved God. I remember when we lost Adaobi your second daughter, you said the devil brings this kind of pain in order to make us lose our faith in God but that we should hold steadfastly to God because there is heaven and there is hell. You said God has shown you the picture of heaven three times and for that reason, you will never for any reason miss heaven.
Your death is really a big loss to the entire family and everyone who in one way or the other encountered you. We will really miss you.
Jee Nkeoma Onye Okei.
Till we meet to part no more!!
Njide Agnes Ezemba
TRIBUTE TO MY DEAR UNCLE AND A MENTOR
Dad, I write this piece with tears in my eyes. My heart bleeds and it's very hard to accept that you are no more with us. You were there for me, even when it was as though I was written off. You kept believing in me and would always advise and encourage me never to give up, rather than judging me, because you trust I can get even better. You were indeed a father and mentor.
Having to say goodbye at this time is the most difficult to say to you right now. I would have wished you stayed longer! We would have wished you stayed a little longer with us, just for the peace, love and unity your presence alone brought to the entire family. Your words and advises, even though sometimes sounded very hard, were inspirations and contributed to this better version of me today, and I'm forever indebted to you for that. Thank you for being my uncle! Thank you for being my father! And thank you for being my mentor.
I would have stopped you from going if I had the power but sadly it isn't in the power of any man to give life. We truly love you but God loves you most. Well, your departure to the great beyond further made me understand the true meaning of your name; Ife Nwere Oge (Everything has its time and season)! Everything has a beginning and an end. Even every living being will one day answer the call of nature. You have just answered yours in a glorious way. You lived and died a good man.
Goodbye to the Great CAD Ezemba;
Till we meet to part no more!!
Fetus Uche Ezemba
Tribute to my Uncle, father, hero, mentor and role model.
Just as your name “IFE NWERE OGE” implies, there’s an appointed time for everything; perhaps this is that tearful time to say goodbye! You were first my uncle and then became a wonderful father because of the roles you played in my life and that was why I always called you ‘Mpa’. I lived with you from 2009 when you purchased IMSU pre-degree form for me till 2014 when I left for NYSC and even till date, each time I come home, I stay in your house as long as I’m home. Living with you taught me lots of wonderful lessons about life. You would always encourage me to work hard and remain focused by telling me your success stories and all that. You were not just there for me but for my siblings and the entire family. You transferred the love you had for our father your older brother to us his children. Should I talk of how you single-handedly paid off our mother’s debts after her death without involving us? Or should I talk of how you would always call everybody, including your children concerning welfare of my late brother Chidi’s family and not allowing me and my siblings alone to bear the burden? To you family didn’t just mean you and your wife and children. To you family meant everyone around you.
You were a man of integrity who lived an honest life. You were selfless in your dealings with others; I could remember sometime around 2011/2012 after leading a particular organization for about two years, the people wanted you to continue as their Chairman but you refused and told them that you would want the younger generation to lead. You will never fight for position because to you, life is not do or die affair
You were a lover of God who believed in the power of prayers, and I’m sure you were not disappointed for that. All through the five to six years I stayed in Owerri with you, you would always wake up from 12am to 4am praying for our general wellbeing. You were indeed a prayer warrior. In one of our recent discussions, I told you about something I was about going into, though you didn’t quite like the choice, but then you asked me to go and pray about it and when I told you that I prayed and I’m convinced that God is leading me to that direction, you simply said “Okay, if it’s God that is leading you, I can’t stand in the way”. Even the last conversation I had with you a week before your demise, you ended it up praying for me by saying “Nnaemeka I wish you well, I bless you, it shall be well with, you will prosper in anything you do”, little did I know I was hearing from you for the last time. How I wished I knew it was my last moment with you. You were just a perfect definition of a good man who would always take delight in seeing people making progress.
I would have wished you stayed longer with us, but Chukwu kechara wea! It has pleased Him that you return to Him at this time and there’s nothing we can do about that, even if we try. But we are consoled by the fact that you lived and died a very good man. Indeed your name has played out here “Ife Nwere Oge’ (There’s time for everything). I will miss your advices, counsels, care and affection each time I come home or call you on phone.
Ijeoma Onye Okei;
Till we meet to part no more.
Nnaemeka Victor Ezemba
***TRIBUTE TO MY UNCLE***
May your soul rest in peace, dear uncle. Your presence will forever be felt in our hearts, and we will
keep your memory alive through the love you shared with us. Thank you for all the peace and wisdom you brought into our lives.
Nkechi Ezemba
TRIBUTE TO MY FALLEN HERO: The sad news of the transition to eternal glory of my cousin, Mr. Christopher Adizua Difu (C.A.D.)Ezemba came to me as a rude shock. This is so because both of us spoke in earnest barely five days before his death. I missed his call and then called back. As usual, we exchanged pleasantries and asked about each other's wellbeing. He did not sound as one who would die so soon. Teacher, as we fondly call him is my mentor. It was from him I learnt that someone with a humble beginning can make it to the top. This of course goes with hard work, determination and perseverance. As a teacher, he proved his mettle. In the insurance industry where he switched over to, he was a mogul. In fact it was his tireless efforts that made the " Unity life and fire insurance company popular in the northern states, particularly in Sokoto and later Kano states. What is more...?He has done his best. He trained all his children and gave them good upbringing. He loved and helped his siblings as well as his kinsmen and women. He practised his faith undiluted. Having run a good race to a finish, what remains is the crown of glory which will be given to him by the elect at the appointed time. We will miss your wise counsel and positive advice. We love you but God loves more. May the good lord grant you eternal rest in his kingdom. " ONYE-OKEI, KEEP RESTING IN THE BOSSOM OF THE LORD, TILL WE MEET TO PART NO MORE. ADIEU C.AD., ADIEU EZIGBO "NWAKANU"
ANTHONY. C. NDOKWU
Thinking of what to write about Uncle Teacher, as I sometimes call him, what stands out for me is his love for God and how much he wanted those around him to love God too. Uncle was a teacher indeed, you learn something new every time you speak to him. You will forever be in our hearts.
Chiwendu Okoroafor
Tribute to My Uncle
While writing this I smiled because I remembered how you were always pushing and advising me on so many things in life.. You sat me down on my bed and told me things you faced when you were young, both you and my dad..
You are dearly missed, uncle. Those beautiful moments you shared will remind us of the great man you were. You have left your footprints with glory on the sand of time. Your name will be remembered for a long time, and your story will be told for generations...
Rest in eternal peace Legend..
Ifeanyi Ezemba
**To C. A. D. Ezemba, A Farewell From The Heart**
This is not a tribute - at least, not in its received sense. It is instead an eulogy to one heck of a life well lived. Angels do indeed live among us here on earth; they are the rough equivalents of the Michael and Gabriel of the Bible's ancient retelling. These creatures of exemplariness slide into our lives and become the buoys that anchor us in place, our tethers to a fundament of meaningfulness and purpose. They are the miracles in our lives that we’re invariably blind to…until it is too late.
If our lives here on earth are suffused in scandals, petty squabbles, controversies, and rivalries, Mr. Christopher Adizua Difu Ezemba skirted these deadly sins with seamless grace. He was to me the lived sampling of the miracle of the uncluttered life…of a life of purpose and beauty built on a foundation of unabashed empathy and goodwill.
C. A. D. slid into my life – or, more accurately, my larger family’s - in my adolescence. He quickly became the lightning rod of my ability to thrive well into adulthood, as well as the fulcrum upon which my family’s survival rested for as long as I can tell the story, with tears of gratitude welling. He embraced, indeed owned, this role as if they were his life’s calling. And so he became the undisputed first-born of the Michael Ishiodu Ossai family.
We mourn the passing of this man who ably filled the role of an older sibling and a father to me long before I became an orphan. When I married his niece, Ikpeaku Udom, he just as quickly became our marriage counselor. C. A. D. was the warrior you needed by your side through both of life’s turbulence and its quietude. At every inflection point in my life, he stood solid with a tableau of counsels on a clipboard, solicited or not. He saw it as his natural calling. Our gratitude to him will last us a lifetime, and then more.
A bright shining starlight has dimmed before our very eyes. God’s gift of grace and mercy shall live with, and in, him who embodied their essence through a life of charity and of giving of self. For is it not thus writ in the Book of Light: “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth”? Our dearest C. A. D., you shall find what you are looking for in God’s kindly face.
Nkem & Ikpeaku Ossai (Atlanta, USA)
***A TRIBUTE TO MY BROTHER IN-LAW*** When the tragic news of your death was broken time,I was shocked, devastated and confused because we spoke just two days before this sad news. I could have never imagined you leaving us now,it took us by surprise but I guess life is full of surprises Few people like me are lucky to have not one but two father's figure in their lives,one being my own father and another being you my brother in-law In you I had a brother in-law,a father, for all the time you had been around you were a perfect example to emulate,your journey on this earthly plane may have come to an end but your spirit lives on, etched in our hearts and woven into the very fabrics of our lives Thank you for the fatherly advices,love lessons and the love you showed to us You were more than a brother in law,a role model,a friend and an integral part of part of our lives You were a great man and you affected lots of people's lives both far and near,we are all grateful for that and proud to have associated with you Myself and my kids have not come to terms with this sudden departure Your memories will for ever be beacon of light in our hearts The Almighty God you have served thought you have done enough. It is hard to say goodbye MAY YOU FIND PEACE IN GOD'S ARMS ADIEU SIR
Dorothy Nkeiruka Ekpunobi
Tribute***
To the Teacher of teachers. In Kiswahili, he will be addressed as Mwalimu (the great teacher).
The man, C.A.D. Ezemba was one of a kind, one of the few good men of his time, in words, way of life, action, and deeds.
He was exceptional in many ways and stood for honesty, hard work, and diligence. Very
upright, straightforward, and uncompromising in every aspect of life, a rare breed indeed.
That was Chukwudifu Ezemba - Ajie Ife N'were Oge!
A great and exemplary in-law turned father figure, whom you can always count on, never shy of giving great pieces of advice flowing from his deep fountain of knowledge and wealth of experience.
He was fond of my family, wife, and children, and was always interested in our development and welfare.
Just this past christmas he had hosted my family, prayed for us and wished my wife and daughter a very safe trip abroad and we never knew it was indeed a goodbye.
I even reminded him how his Oguta traditional greeting/afa ekene - Ife N'were Oge (there is time for everything), is such a special one that I will like to use, he jokingly reminded me of the need to pay a compensation before obtaining the right to the name.
Ife N'were Oge, truly there is a time for everything under the earth, there is a time to live, there is a time to return to our maker, each according to the way the good Lord decides.
As we are, so you were, as you are, so we shall all be one day.
As we live, you will remain a shining example, a path we will continue to follow.
You are in the right and true sense of it, truly one of a few good men.
May you rest peacefully in the Lord until we meet again.
Je nke oma - Teacher C.A.D Ezemba, Ife N'were Oge, the wise one!
Henry Uche Ossai
Tribute to "A Very Good Man", Indeed!
Good men, Great men who tell the truth and actually live the Truth; God-fearing men, ever cheerful and inspiring are very rare to come by!
Such qualities, and many more, we attribute to this rare gem of a man - Papa Chiedu, as we fondly called and remember him by. A great Traditionalist, full of wit, wisdom, and humor, even in the face of life's numerous rigors, he spread warmth and good cheer to all with whom he came in contact.
Life, they say, is not measured by how long but by how well one lived. Papa Chiedu, you achieved both as you not only lived well but was blessed to have gracefully met every standard of a ripe old age. You were a good 'Father' to Chichi and a great 'Father-in-Law' to me as you welcomed me and nurtured both of us through these many years. Your love and care even extended to our family members in Azuiyi who often referred to you as the 'Good Mr. Ezemba.'
Our family will forever love and miss your good-natured banter and sagely advice so cheerfully dispensed whenever we visited or spoke with you over the phone, even up till that last call the day before your final exit.
Rest in Heavenly Peace, Papa Chiedu, till we meet again, at the feet of Jesus!
Dr. Nnamdi & Chichi Ogbonna
IFE NWERE OGE : A good man goes home!
It’s still like a dream….The pain of losing you is immeasurable, but the love and memories we shared provide solace in our grief. When we visited you last Christmas, you called me aside to advise and specifically pray for the journey I was going to embark on. Little did I know that was the last time I was going to see you, even though I told you, “ anyi yafu ma mbata” (I shall see you when I return). Again, two days before your passing, we spoke over the phone, you were full of life and said to me, “Ogbuefi, study hard when you travel, as you can’t afford to fail when studying abroad.“ How did I forget that you were a great Teacher, no wonder you were always excited about things of education.
Here I am now, studying hard, and I believe you’re in heaven watching over us because I strongly believe that good people go to heaven. I promise you that I’ll come out in flying colours in my studies by God’s grace.
We miss you, Ajie Ife Nwere Oge. Your wisdom, kindness, and love were a blessing to us all. We’ll definitely miss your fatherly advice.
We miss you, dear father-in-law, great teacher, wonderful counsellor, and adviser, more than words can ever express.
Indeed, Ife Nwereoge ( there’s time for everything), je nk’oma !
Ogbuefi Stella Ossai
In Memory of lfe-Nwere-Oge.
Our friend, teacher, and mate, lfe-Nwere-Oge, leaves behind a profound legacy. With unwavering faith, he guided all who has the good fortune of meeting him, toward personal growth and embraced all with boundless love. Though his physical presence his gone, his light is eternally in our cherished memories.
Farewell, friend, your spirit will forever illuminate our path.
- F.P. Ejeke. on behalf of the Family.
Francis Patrick Ejeke.
In loving memory of Mr Christopher Adizua Difu Ezemba, a beacon of kindness and strength. Your laughter filled rooms, your wisdom guided souls, and your love knew no bounds. Though you may have left this world, your legacy of warmth and compassion lives on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know you. May your spirit find peace, and may your memory bring solace during this time of sorrow.
Ejeke Edward
A radiant soul, a guiding light, Uncle Christopher lived a life filled with faith and love. His unwavering devotion brought peace and warmth to those around him.
As a teacher and mentor, he nurtured young minds, planting seeds of wisdom and compassion. Though he may be gone, his spirit lives on in our hearts, in the hearts he touched and the lessons he imparted.
May his soul rest in peace.
From Chinazo Ejeke and Family.
Chinazo F. Ejeke
In loving memory of my Uncle. Mr Ezemba. A beacon of falth a kind mentot his love and wisdom touched us ai One attribute which we will miss is your boisterous laughter and absolute love for God.
‘ife ‘nate oga’.. though gone, your spirit lives on in every life you nurtured including our son whom you so selflessly cared about. Rest in peace.
Dr and Mrs Korle
Waoo Uncle still can’t come to terms with the fact that you are no more after speaking to you a few weeks back.
Growing up I spent a lot of time at your home in Sokoto, you and Anty always made us feel at home. We were your children.
The sad truth is that a good soul returns to his maker only after their job is done , you accomplished your task uncle, my love to Ogechi and Ify.
An Angel has returned to Heaven. Rest in peace
Florence Ayuketah-Ekokobe
"To my dearest uncle,
I miss you deeply. The wings of your compassion are irreplaceable. I miss the way you always showed concern for my welfare. Your selflessness and generosity inspired everyone who came in contact with you. Your devotion and dedication to God were the most loving virtues I admired about you. I am forever grateful for the countless memories we shared, the laughter, and the love. The last conversation we had, your last words still echo in my mind. You were more than just an uncle; you were a mentor, a role model, and a true friend. Rest in peace, dear uncle. Your legacy lives on in my heart and the hearts of all those you touched."
Okoroafor Emmanuel Eruamuno
***TRIBUTE TO AN ICON*** Ife-Nwere Oge. Angel moves on, the Saints are singing. Mortals wonder why but his legacies here on earth are inedible. Like your name, there is time to be born and a time to die. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith (St. Paul-2 Tim4;7) Continue to rest in the bosom of the Lord, till we meet to part no more.
Cletus M. Enebua
The thought of your death still sends a chill down my spine since I heard the news of your demise.
Who would believe that my coming home after a long time that I left Oguta will be the last time we had to see each other.
Your death came too sudden to me with a shock. I know you are in heaven right now because your steadfastness in Christ Jesus is nothing to be compared with.
Death is inevitable and it is what every mortal must pass through when it strikes.
It does not respect anyone no matter the position or the age.
My consolation is that you lived an exemplary easy going life. You were soft-spoken and had a truthful and fruitful life.
Based on your footprints of life you have truly set great virtures for us to behold, emulate, uphold and preserve for the future. And that is the best way to keep you fresh in our memory day by day.
We trust God to strengthen, comfort, protect your dear wife and your children in Jesus Christ name Amen.
We will miss you so much but we take solace in the fact that you lived a good life and had gone to be with your creator who loves you more than any of us until we meet in that beautiful place meant for good hearts like you.
ADIEU Rest in peace Daddy Christopher Ezemba.
Lord Jenkins Nzeribe and his wife Onichamaka and family
A Tribute to Mr. Christopher Adizua Chukwudifu Ezemba
Dear Chigozie,
Today, I write to honor the life of a truly remarkable man, Mr. Christopher Adizua Chukwudifu Ezemba. He was a man of integrity, dedication, and kindness—a hard-working and gentle soul who touched the lives of everyone he met. While it is difficult to say goodbye, we celebrate the profound impact he had on the life of his children and all of us in general.
As his neighbor for many years, Mr ezemba embodied the values of hard work and perseverance. He approached every task with diligence and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Whether in his professional career or in his personal endeavors, he always gave his very best. His work ethic was not just about achieving success, but about doing things the right way, with care and attention to detail.
But beyond his impressive dedication to work, He was also known for his gentle nature and kind heart. He treated everyone with respect and compassion, always ready to offer a helping hand or a word of encouragement. His gentleness was a source of comfort to many, and his ability to listen and empathize made him a cherished neighbor.
To Chigozie my friend and His family, I extend my deepest sympathies. Please know that i share in your grief and that my hearts go out to you during this difficult time. Your dad was a remarkable individual whose memory will live on in the many lives he touched. His hard work and gentle spirit are the qualities we will remember and cherish forever.
Rest in peace, Mr. Christopher Adizua Chukwudifu Ezemba Thank you for the love, the lessons, and the example you set. Your life was a true gift to all who knew you, and your legacy of kindness and hard work will forever be a guiding light for the people you left behind.
With deepest sympathy and love,
Ejike Akaeme
Tribute To a Good Christian Brother, Teacher, Christopher Adizua Ezemba C.A.D.
We are from the same Royal family of Umuatashia kindred in Umuenu village in Oguta.
I grew up to know him as a teacher, hence I fondly called him (Teacher Ezemba)
After the war he stopped teaching, and joined an Insurance company, which took him on transfer to so many places.
When he came to Kano, where I was, we joined the Association of S.H.J& Immaculate Heart of Mary, the same day we had our enthronement in Kano, on April 1 999, and our Solemn admission same day in Kaduna.Same year Teacher Ezemba left on transfer to Aba and after some time I returned to Owerri.
It happened that Ezernba was transferred back to Owerri in the year 2000. He saw that there wasn’t this Association of S.I.J & I.H.Mary in Owerri Archdiocese. He sought permission from the Arch Bishop Obinna, to start it and it was granted.
He became the Archdiocesan President until he retired home. Ezemba was blessed with a quite woman, many children, both boys and girls, all graduates, who are now making him proud.
He was so grateful to his God, he was second in command in our kindred hence the will of God, at 3am, Divine Mercy hour he died and the alter light went off, according to his wife.
May his gentle Soul rest in Peace.
Sis. Okonya Augusta
Augusta Okonya
Tribute to Bro Ezemba, father to all.
Sir, as I always called you.
The last time we spoke, you told me that the strength is going down.
I deduced, may be your time is near.
Even though I didn't expect to hear the news so close by, I give God all the glory for the worthy life you lived on earth.
You brought so many souls to Christ through the Association of Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary.
I believe you are resting in our Lord's bosom.
In the light of this belief, I call upon your wife, children and host of other relations to take solace in this fact.
I pray God to grant us all living now the type of strength he gave you to work for him here and your unwavering faith on him. May your soul continue to rest till the resurrection morning.
Good night worthy son of God, good night sir Ezemba.
Your daughter in Christ.
Ngozi Nwanna
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jane doe
TRIBUTE TO A PERFECT GENTLEMAN
Greatness is not found in possessions of the world, power, position or privilages, but in goodness, humility, service and character.
My brother-in-law, you demonstrated greatness in many ways. You were meek and humble, very kind and gentle and above all very unassuming.
Difu Ezemba, I will always treasure memories of you. Oh! Death where is thy sting? Life is a stopping and resting place along the road to eternity. When the journey ends finally, we will claim a great reward for what we have done.
We thank God , Adieu, my brother-in-law. Difu Ezemba.
Benneth Ojigbani