‘Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves a memory no one can steal’
This is one of the most herculean tribute I have to write all my entire life.
It is for this reason it is coming at this eleventh hour.
Sometimes, I still ask rhetorically if Hajia is indeed gone for real!
The more I try to be skeptical, the more I have been faced with the stark reality of your untimely demise.
Hajia London as you are fondly called, my knowing you wasn’t accidental; you actually requested to know & meet me, even when I barely knew you from Adam!
And ever since our path crossed each other, for me, I have always seen you as my second mum, just the same way you refer to me as – ‘Anto mi, my son!’
All the years we have spent together, all you lived for was always a life of giving, giving, giving & never for once, thought of receiving back.
Prior to my wedding ceremony, you often call from London to inquire how far I have gone about it. When it was apparent you were going to be avoidably absent, you insisted that you MUST contribute your widows mite.
I recalled with nostalgia you called the following day and asked if I had purchased my wedding suit.
My response wasn’t affirmative. You then insisted that you would buy the suit in London and send it down.
When you suddenly realised that our initial agreement wasn’t going to work, you insisted to send the money. Within a twinkle of an eye, I had received a credit alert.
Till tomorrow, I will continue to cherish & appreciate this rare gesture from someone I barely know!
Hajia, may the good Lord reward all your labour of love Insha Allah!
Hajia , each time I sneaked into Abuja without your knowledge, you still find a way of getting to know. You will ensure that I was specially treated with sumptuous meals and nice accommodation.
Even when some people were disseminating unsubstantiated rumours due to my close – knitted relationship with you, you waved it aside like a no- brainer! You surmised then- “Anto mi, kabi were komi ghi balo?” (Do you want to abandon me due to lame excuses?)
Hajia, in your routinous manner of checking on me even if I don’t care to call, you promised to take me to Hon. James Abiodun Faleke whenever you returned from London.
Unfortunately, that was the last I heard from you. Oye Olorun!
Hajia, now that you have exited this sinful world, I’m pretty sure you are enjoying & savouring angelic treatment in heaven.
I’m positive that your love for EVERYONE will sure lead you to Aljauna fidaus in Jesus name!
Hajia London, may the Lord forgive all your shortcomings and rest your philanthropic soul eternally!
Adieu! Good night! RIP!
– Tony Oloniruha writes from Kabba.
