Biographies of Ogbona Past Leaders

Biography of Chief Moses Obadele Ogbualo
(February 2, 1932 – August 1, 2025) Chief Moses Obadele Ogbualo was born on February 2, 1932, to the families of Pa Daudu Ogbualo Ototo of the Ivhitse kindred in Ivhiochie quarter, Ogbona, and Madam Iyawo Akhadumhe of Ivhiegbepui town, Uweppa, in Edo State.   He attended Catholic Missionary School, Ogbona, from 1945 to 1948 but was expelled for participating in club activities against school rules. Following this, he joined his father in farming, where he gained over 75 years of experience in cultivating various crops.   Chief Ogbualo was married to Mrs. Victoria Obakhaye Ogbualo and Mrs. Cecilia Amino Ogbualo, with whom he had seven children, as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.   He served as the village head of the Ape Ototo kindred, a title he held from September 15, 1985, until 2022, making him one of the most experienced chiefs in the Ogbona community. Additionally, he was the senior Oghiebo in Ivhitse quarters and the patron of the Ikpeluemhe Dance Group, a cultural band he joined in 1946.   Known as a repository of Ogbona history, Chief Ogbualo shared knowledge passed down from his father, detailing the lineage of Ogbona. He was a consultant on various cultural matters, including burial ceremonies and traditional festivals.   A devout Christian, Chief Ogbualo married his first wife in the Catholic church in 2014. He expressed regret over not knowing his mother, who passed away when he was a toddler. He wished to be remembered for his humility, simplicity, and dedication to community service, advocating for the modernization of the Okhei title to align with Christian values.   Chief Moses Obadele Ogbualo passed away on the morning of August 1, 2025 at the age of 93 years. May his gentle soul rest in peace.   NOTE FROM ALFRED IDODE IN THE PAST In those days, there was this story of Pa Ogbualo and his elderly friends who paid a visit to the school, Native Authority, Ogbona. Pa Ogbualo and his group of elders arrived the school chorusing this greeting: Vha nana, ene wena, lagi ene awena. Meaning, good morning teachers and pupils. After the exchange of greetings, Pa Ogbualo observed his son, Obadele was sitting idle, not writing anything, curiously, he asked: Obadele go obe? Aaoh, ude amhe?.  Meaning: Obadele, where is your book? Aaoh, did you buy for me? This encounter later became popular up to the point that local drummers started drumming and singing with it. Badele go obe, Aaoh, ude amhe? ——————————————— Archbishop Fidelis Itsuokor: This is the remaining patriarch in the Chief Ototo lineage, my mother’s immediate elder brother. They had a very rich culture and royal blood flowing in their vein. He was the custodian of Ogbona laws and customs. May the Lord grant him eternal rest. What a glorious exit. Fare- thee -well daddy. [8/1/25, 11:31:25 AM] Archbishop Fidelis Itsuokor: This story of Aaoh ude amhe was confirmed to be true, it was not just a joke. My mother who was his younger sister told me about it and the Chief himself confirmed it to be true. According to him, his father Pa Ogbualo a prominent community leader and a magistrate at the customary court in Agenebode came in company of other officials for the inspection of the school at the time. As the teacher was teaching, other pupils were writing but Pa Ogbualo observed that his son was idle not writing. He shouted Moses, where are your books? Why are you not writing? Chief Obadele replied Aaoh ( my real father,) did you buy for me?  He said the father knew that he did not buy books for him and yet he was asking to save his face. He said his answer was an indictment on his highly respected father in the community as he had earlier demanded for money to buy those books but his father refused to give him the money. That made other fathers sit up and became responsive to their children’ educational demands. He was so polite in answering his father. At the time the father had many detractors and enemies who went to spread the news in town and it soon became an adage” Moses, go be” where are your books, Aaoh ude amhe? My father, did you buy for me? ——————————————— John Odior Anaweokhai: Chief Obadele was like a second father to me, given the close bond he shared with my father,Pa Joseph Akhaniamhe Anaweokhai.As first cousins, their relationship ran deep – both of them being grandchildren of Chief Ototo, with Chief Obadele’s father being Ogbualo and my father’s mother being Omoarebu. I vividly remember while preparing for my wedding ; I took my wife to him for a blessing, and he prayed fervently for us. What struck me was when he shared a nostalgic memory – how, after my father’s passing, I’d visit him and mention my father was ‘lying in the grave in their compound’ as my father was buried in his maternal home where he took Okhei title .Despite the distance, Chief Obadele traveled to Warri to celebrate my marriage, showcasing his love and commitment to family. Earlier this year, I visited him at his home, eager to ask him questions, but he was still recovering from a fall. Today, exactly 52 years and 7 days after my father’s passing, Chief Moses Obadele Ogbualo has joined our ancestors. May angels escort him to eternal rest, and may his soul find peace. Farewell, Chief. Adios.” ——————————————— Anthony Ogedegbe: As the Ogiebo of Ivhitse, Dele-Ogun as my Father, L.K OGEDEGBE, called him, audaciously had asked my father to lead a team to Ogwua for a scheduled Okhe activities. One of the elder has challenged Chief Obadele why he was so disrespectful to a highly respected Daodu of Ivhitse, in the person of my father, why young ebos were there to lead the team. Chief Obadele responded that the only people that are exempted from such exercise were those whose children

BIOGRAPHY OF LATE CHIEF BRUNO IGWEMHOR AIKABELI (1942-2024) Early Life and Family Background: Late Chief Bruno Igwemhor Aikabeli was born on October 6, 1942, into the family of Late Pa Momoh Aikabeli and Madam Salametu Emariemhe Aikabeli (née Agbayekhai) in Ivhido Quarter, Ogbona town, Avianwu, Etsako Central Local Government Area, Edo State. He was the second child of his mother, who had three sons: Late Pa James Akhagbemhe Aikabeli, Christopher Imhonikhe Aikabeli (the last surviving member of their lineage), and their half-brother, Late Pa Julius Akhibe Aikabeli. Education: Chief Bruno began his education at Etsako District Council School (EDC) from 1954 to 1959, where he earned a one-year scholarship from the Ogbona Progressive Union due to his high level of responsibility. He continued his secondary education at St. Thomas Secondary School (now St. Peter’s Secondary School) in Agenebode from 1960 to 1961 and St. Andrew’s Anglican Secondary Model School in Fugar from 1961 to 1962. Work Experience and Entrepreneurial Spirit: Chief Bruno’s career was marked by resilience and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. His determination to succeed saw him venture into multiple business ventures throughout his life. He began his professional journey at the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources in Okpe farm settlement, Igarra, from 1963 to 1964. After being denied recruitment into the police force in 1964, he refused to give up. He worked for Mr. Anderson H. Smith, a Canadian expatriate and educational adviser, as a domestic servant from 1964 to 1966. His spirit of persistence then led him to Monier Construction Company (MCC) in Warri, where he rose from being a laborer to a clerk, managing site workers’ employment and payroll from 1966 to 1972. In 1972, Chief Bruno ventured into the oil and gas business, becoming a dealer for Total Oil. With the same determination, he registered as a contractor with the Edo State Government, securing contracts that included construction of buildings, supplying furniture to hospitals and government institutions. By 1976, he transitioned from Total Oil to British Petroleum (BP), where he operated until 1993. His entrepreneurial pursuits continued in the cold room business, which he managed from 1996 to 2006. He stepped back from active business in 2006 due to health challenges. Marital Life: Chief Bruno married Mrs. Celina (née Nasamu Odior) in 1968, The union was blessed with a daughter before the marriage ended in divorce. He later married Mrs. Victoria Izokone (née Iwenekhai) in 1978, who remained his wife until his passing. He also married Mrs. Ayo (née Onobun) in 1980 and Mrs. Anne (née Ikediashi). He was blessed with nine children: two sons and seven daughters. Humility, Kindness, and Legacy of Empowerment: Chief Bruno was known for his deep humility and kindness. He welcomed everyone who crossed his path, opening his home to many and generously sharing his resources to uplift those in need. Whether young or old, he empowered people by providing financial support and mentorship. His house became a beacon of hope for many, a home to all who needed shelter, support, or guidance. His legacy of generosity left a lasting impact on his community, as he was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He remained a happy man even during times of lack and difficulty, always maintaining a positive and cheerful outlook. His virtues and good works left an indelible mark on those who knew him, and he will be deeply missed for his compassion, joy, and service to humanity. Social Life: A social and community-minded individual, his love for his community and people was unrivaled. In service to his community, Chief Bruno was a very active member of the Ogbona Imhakhena Union (now Ogbona Federated Union) he joined the union when he arrived in Benin City in 1965. He served as the union’s treasurer from 1972 to 2003 and was recognized for his long service and dedication. He was also a patron of Oboareke Social Club, Ibadan, and a member of Oyakhilome Social Club, Benin, where he served as treasurer and an auditing panel member. For his dedication, love, and services to the development and growth of the Ogbona community, in 1994, he was conferred with the chieftaincy title of “Igbevhome of Avianwu” by His Royal Highness, the Oghieavianwu of Avianwu. Christian Life: In 1995, Chief Bruno fully embraced the Christian faith and became an active member of Believers Ministries, where he was baptized and served in various capacities, including treasurer of the Uselu-Ugbowo Zonal Fellowship. He continued his Christian service at Sower Bible Church, and later at Christian Family Love Ministry International, where he was ordained as an elder in 2010. He served faithfully in this role until the Lord called him home on August 4, 2024. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.  

A GREAT DOCUMENTARY FOR THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT OF EDO STATE AND NIGERIA. TRULY, MAY THE LABOUR OF OUR HEROES PAST NOT BE IN VAIN. THE LESSONS FROM THE LIFE AND TIMES OF CHIEF MCK ORBIH ARE TRULY AN INSPIRATION TO MANY OF US.

50 YEARS IN MIND PA JOSEPH AKHANIAMHE ANAWEOKHAI, 1906 -1973, THE FATHER I NEVER KNEW. 24th July 1973, will remain a red-letter day in the annals of my existence as my father, Pa Joseph Akhanimhe Anaweokhai boarded the celestial plane to live among saints. For many years, I struggled without retrain, dug deep into the reveries of my inner being, plied ceaselessly through the recesses of my mental hub, and stretched the elasticity of memory boundary, all to catch a glimpse of his face, much as I strained my tiny earlobes daily, hoping to be jarred by his guttural voice, cleared my mind of cobwebs in readiness for fatherly admonitions, waited eagerly to fall into his warm embrace with my school report card and to have my frayed nerves soothed by his coaxing fatherly counsel, of course, all to no avail. Yes, exercises in futility cum childish fantasies they were. The reality is that he is no more and painfully so, I have since learned to live with that stark reality. That is not to say it was easy. It was by no means an easy task. Whenever we thumbed one another as children, some threatened to report me to their fathers. Did I have anyone to report to? Yes, my mother. However, such reiteration bred a bigger problem for me altogether. Namely, my father’s name became erased from my nomenclature and replaced my mother’s, ODIOR ABIKE before my peers. No peer of mine knew my father’s name. My surname, Anaweokhai, did not help matters as it completely obliterated my name from the equation. Humanly speaking, is there any height I could have attained in life but for his early exit? The answer is capital NO. I told a group of friends some time ago with a deep sense of responsibility that I owe my “success” to three factors: The grace of God, a solid family background, and a God-fearing/supportive wife. Pa Joseph Akhaniamhe Anaweokhai was a visionary father of excellence who saw beyond the limiting scope of his immediate environment. Very early in life, he migrated from his agrarian community of Ogbona to the commercial city of Onitsha to ply his trade in commodities and to a great extent, accumulated both fortune and fame. He became a rallying point for his immediate and extended friends and family members. He also broadened his horizon beyond trading by keying into adult education, spurred by Onitsha market literature, and became literate enough to read and write, a no mean feat in the 1950s and 60s. Apart from helping to support his sibling’s children in their life endeavors, he ensured his children, Chief Vital Anaweokhai and Pst Mrs Julie Inu Umoru were exposed to Western education very early in their formative years too. A life-transforming investment whose benefits rubbed off on the younger ones later in life in no small measure. Pa Joseph was a non-conformist and disdainful iconoclast to the core. While girls were mostly seen as mere chattels and objects for producing children and as such, undeserving of being wasted scarce resources on, Pa Joseph unapologetically broke with tradition and sent her only daughter, Pst. Mrs Julie Inu Umoru to school in the 1940s. Another lifetime investment that completely changed the family narratives. In a nutshell, Pa Joseph’s foresight had a trickledown effect from Chief Vital Anaweokhai to my twin brother and me, the last born. If I didn’t have to struggle to pay my way through schools, from secondary school to postgraduate studies levels, it was because of the above foundation. If I made quick progress in business, without any form of equivocation, it was strictly because of the said investment. On the appreciative page of my IST degree Project, I wrote MY JOURNEY THROUGH THE IVORY TOWER LIKE THE FRESH NEEDLE THROUGH A PIECE OF CLOTH WAS SO BECAUSE MY ELDER BROTHER, SIR ROMANUS, AND HIS WIFE, LADY AGNES ANAWEOKHAI SAID SO. If Sir Romanus saw farther than most men in all spheres of life, it was by standing on the shoulder of Pst. Mrs. Julie Inu Umoru and if Pst Mrs. Julie Inu Umoru was able to raise her younger ones, it was based on the sacrifice Chief Vital Anaweokhai made to see her through school. Dad, wherever you may be, I feel proud to have come into this world through your loins. If I have to come back to this world again and I am given a choice in the matter, I won’t hesitate a hoot to come here through your loins and of course, to leverage your good legacy. Eramhe No’khai, the family has expanded beyond what you would have imagined and blessed with good health, long life, and all-round blessings. Your first son, Chief Vital will be 88 years old in October. A lot of grandchildren and great-grandchildren have been added to the family. Your only daughter, Pst. Mrs Julie Inu Umoru is now a great-grandmother, thus extending the bloodline. Sir Romanus, Adolphus, Omo, and my humble self, have lived a humble and peaceful life devoid of criminality. The seed of Christianity planted in the family by your elder brother, Pa Cletus Eshiemhomo Anaweokhai has grown to produce Rev. Father and Pastors. Your venture into business in the early 30s has snowballed into limited liability companies. Writing this piece without your attached picture is one of the most hallowing and disappointing experiences I have had in recent times. The stories are the same. ”When I relocated to my new place, I misplaced them”. The good thing is that all the sources have promised to swing into action and make them available in next to no distant time. Continue to rest in peace, Dad. We miss you daily. John Odior Anaweokhai ( Your Grown Banana Sucker)

A Tribute to Chief Vital E Anaweokhai (1935-2024) by John Odior Anaweokhai PhD A Visionary Leader and Agricultural Icon Chief Vital E Anaweokhai was a man of uncommon wisdom, strength, and character. His imposing physique, captivating smile, and oval face radiated an aura of confidence and authority. With a commanding presence reminiscent of European monarchs, he embodied knowledge, wisdom, and power. A Sophisticated and Versatile Individual Chief Anaweokhai was a true Renaissance man – an agriculturalist, a diplomat, and a humanitarian. His sophistication and versatility were evident in his ability to navigate complex issues with ease, and he was always prepared with thoughtful solutions. His extensive travels and experiences broadened his perspective, allowing him to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. A Socialite and Bridge-Builder Chief Anaweokhai’s exceptional social skills and warm personality earned him many friends and admirers. He was a master networker, able to build bridges between individuals, communities, and nations. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life was a testament to his empathy, compassion, and genuine interest in others. A Distinguished Career in Agriculture As an agriculturalist, Chief Anaweokhai made significant contributions to the development of Nigeria’s agricultural sector. In 1962, he was seconded by the Nigerian government to the Malaysian government to help nurse palm seedlings. This collaboration not only fostered international cooperation but also demonstrated Chief Anaweokhai’s expertise and dedication to his craft. A Commitment to Global* *Development Chief Anaweokhai’s passion for agriculture and global development led him to the Kief Botanical Garden, London, Ghana, and other places. There, he continued to add value to humanity through his work in agriculture, inspiring a new generation of leaders and practitioners. A Legacy of Discipline, Faith, and Devotion Chief Anaweokhai’s life was a testament to the power of discipline, faith, and devotion. His Spartan approach to life was evident in his unwavering commitment to his values and principles. Every aspect of his life, from his daily routines to his relationships, was guided by a deep sense of purpose and responsibility. He was born Catholic and was unapologetic about his faith till the end. A Loving Husband and Devoted Partner Chief Anaweokhai’s love and devotion to his beloved wife, Comfort, were truly inspiring. The pet name “COM” was a testament to the affection and endearment he had for her. Their marriage was a beautiful example of commitment, trust, and mutual respect. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and a deep sense of connection. A Life of Simplicity and Purpose Chief Anaweokhai’s life was a reflection of his values: simplicity, humility, and a deep sense of purpose. He was never given to frivolities or extravagance, preferring instead to focus on what truly mattered: his faith, his family, and his community. His legacy is a powerful reminder that a life of purpose, discipline, and faith can have a profound impact on those around us. Chief Vital E Anaweokhai was not an angel from heaven, neither am I nor anyone else. As a human being, he had his difficult moments and challenges but in all, he left his footprint in the sand of time May his soul rest in peace. John Odior Anaweokhai PhD

CHIEF VITAL ENAMEGBAI ANAVHEOKHAI – Former village head of Ivhiosano Quarter, Ogbona He was Secretary to Avhianwu Traditional Council from 1992 to 2010. Member of The Area customary Court, Fugar, from 2000 to 2003. Palace Chief representing Ivhiosano Quarter from 1992 till date He has served in pastoral council in most parishes he worked from 1955 to date. Church Council, Ogbona 1986 – Till Date One of the go-to persons on Ogbona history and customs Chief Vital Enamegbai Anavheokhai, a native of Ivhiosano-Ivhioche in Ogbona (Imhakhena), Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State. He was born into a Christian family of Mr. Joseph Akhaniamhe Anavheokhai of Ivhiosano-Ivhioche and Mrs. Christiana Eladi Asapokhai of Ivhitse-Ivhioche on the 8 October 1935 at Onitsha. His father was a businessman who traveled as far as Onitsha to sell goods. He was baptized in 1940, confirmed in 1950, and married on 14 May 1961. EARLY LIFE, EDUCATION AND CAREER As a young boy, he started his education at Holy Trinity Catholic Primary School, Onitsha, between 1946 and 1947. In 1948, he returned home at his father’s request and resumed studies at St John’s School, Fugar. He had to return to Onitsha and attend the African school which would later change to Our lady’s Primary School, Onitsha. Between 1951 and 1954, he also attended the Metropolitan School Onitsha. And in those days, once one finished school, he/she was sure of available employment, and immediately started working. His career in life began at the West African Institute for Oil Palm Research (WIFOR) now the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR) in 1955 as an Agricultural Assistant in training. In 1957, he proceeded to the School of Agriculture in Ibadan for more training till 1959. Upon completion of his studies, he returned to NIFOR, since he was trained by the institute. His normal career continued till 1964. With the creation of the Midwestern Region, he had to transfer to the Midwestern Nigerian Development Corporation (MNDC) from 1964 to 1970. But not long after, it was dissolved. He worked at Urhonigbe Rubber Estate for some time. In 1970, the Government acquired a Rubber plantation in Egbududu-Aka and he was immediately posted there in 1971 to develop and manage the Ajagbodudu Oil Palm (Howard Estate) from 1973 to 1986. He was seconded to the Malaysian government by the Nigerian government to develop palm Oil farming in Malaysia between 1960-61. OGBONA ACTIVITIES He was Secretary to Avhianwu Traditional Council from 1992 to 2010. Member of The Area customary Court, Fugar, from 2000 to 2003. Palace Chief representing Ivhiosano Quarter from 1992 till date. CHURCH LIFE Chief Vital E. Anavheokhai, to say the least, can easily be referred to as a “churchman”. Right from an early young age has been a faithful, committed, and dedicated catholic. He is well grounded in his catholic faith and has always been very active in almost all places he worked and was posted. He has served in pastoral council in most parishes he worked, JDPC, Evangelization 2000 (then in Ben in Diocese council, Inter-Religious Dialogue Commission, to mention a few: RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES 1955 Church Council, NIFOR 1964-1966 Church Council, Igueben 1966 -1970 Church Council, Urhonigbe 1970 -1973 Church Council, Egbudu Aka 1973-1974 Church Council, Ajagbodudu 1974-1976 Church Council, Ewhohimi 1976-1978 Church Council, Nsukwa 1978-1986 Church Council, Benin City 1986 – Till Date Church Council, Ogbona HIS REGRET That in spite of all the memos they wrote to the Federal Government pointing out the dangers of abandoning palm oil for crude oil was not heeded. —————————————– *A TRIBUTE TO LATE CHIEF VITAL ANAWEOKHAI* The Anaweokhai Dynasty and the entire Ogbona community mourn the loss of a great patriarch, Late Chief Vital Anaweokhai. His passing leaves a void in the lives of those who loved and respected him. As a devoted family man, Chief Anaweokhai was deeply committed to his loved ones and community. He played a significant role in establishing the Ogbona Community Secondary School, a testament to his dedication to education and community development. One of his most notable roles was as Secretary to the Traditional Palace of the Oghie-Avianwu of Avianwu Clan. In this capacity, he worked closely with the traditional ruler, providing guidance and support in matters related to the clan. Chief Anaweokhai was a devout Christian who lived by the values of his faith. His strong belief in God guided his actions and decisions throughout his life. He was a proud member of the Catholic Church and was deeply committed to his spiritual growth. One of his greatest joys was seeing his son become a Catholic Priest, a testament to his commitment to his faith and his family. He took great pride in his son’s vocation and was a constant source of support and encouragement. Throughout his life, Chief Anaweokhai demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, wisdom, and a deep sense of responsibility. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community, but his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate future generations. May his soul rest in peace, and may his loved ones find comfort in the memories they shared with him. May his family continue to draw strength from their faith and from the knowledge that his legacy will live on through them. *COMRADE ODIA ROBERT (OGEDEGBE) PhD* ——————————————– The Ogbona Elites Forum extends its condolences to the family of Chief Vital E. Anaweokhai. May the Lord accept his soul and provide comfort to the entire Anaweokhai family. We hope they find solace in the cherished memories they shared with him. Chief Anaweokhai’s legacy is one of great significance, evident in the lives he touched and the contributions he made to the Ogbona community. His family, including his siblings Pastor (Mrs.) Julie Inu Umoru and Dr. John Odior Anaweokhai, as well as his children, continue to build upon his foundation, making notable impacts in their respective fields and our community. We hope that the gesture of condolence from the Ogbona Elites Forum brings some comfort to the grieving

Biography of Chief Bruno Igwemhor Aikabeli (The Igbevhomhe of Avianwu) Early Life and Education Chief Bruno Igwemhor Aikabeli was born on October 6th, 1943, to Pa Aikabeli Momoh and Madam Salametu Emariemhe Agbayekhai in Ivhiochie village, Ogbona sub-clan, Avianwu, Etsako Central LGA. He attended Etsako District Council School (EDC) from 1954 to 1959, where he received a one-year scholarship from Ogbona Progressive Union. He furthered his education at St Thomas Secondary Model School Agenegbode and St Andrew’s Anglican Model School in Fugar. Work Experience Chief Bruno’s career spanned various industries, including: – Ministry of Agriculture (1963) – Domestic servant for Canadian Expatriates (1964-1966) – MONIER (MCC) construction company (1966) – Petroleum dealership with Total Oil Nigeria (1972-1976) and British Petroleum (BP) (1976-1994) – Frozen foods business (1996-present) Community Roles Chief Bruno served in various capacities, including: – Assistant Secretary, Ogbona Aloagbaye Union Benin branch (1965-1966) – Treasurer, Ogbona Aloagbaye Union (1972-2003) – National Treasurer, Ogbona Aloagbaye Union (1989-2006) – Patron, Oboareke Social Club, Ibadan (ongoing) Motivation and Vision for Ogbona Chief Bruno’s love for Ogbona stems from the scholarship he received from an association in Ogbona. He instilled a deep love for the community in his children and grandchildren, frequently visiting with them. His vision is for a united and progressive Ogbona in all aspects of life. Passing Chief Bruno Igwemhor Aikabeli passed away on August 5, 2024, after a brief illness.

51 YEARS IN MIND: PA JOSEPH AKHANIAMHE ANAWEOKHAI, 1906-1973, THE FATHER I NEVER KNEW 24th July 1973 will remain a red-letter day in the annals of my existence as my father, Pa Joseph Akhaniamhe Anaweokhai, boarded the celestial plane to live among saints. For many years, I struggled without restraint, dug deep into the reveries of my inner being, plied ceaselessly through the recesses of my mental hub, stretched the elasticity of memory boundaries, all to catch a glimpse of his face, much as I strained my tiny earlobes daily, hoping to be jarred by his guttural voice, cleared my mind of cobwebs in readiness for fatherly admonitions, waited eagerly to fall into his warm embrace with my school report card, and to have my frayed nerves soothed by his coaxing fatherly counsel, of course, all to no avail. Yes, exercises in futility cum childish fantasies they were. The reality is that he is no more, and painfully so, I have since learned to live with that stark reality. That is not to say it was easy. It was by no means an easy task. Whenever we thumbed one another as children, some threatened to report me to their fathers. Did I have anyone to report to? Yes, my mother. However, such reiteration bred a bigger problem for me altogether. Namely, my father’s name became erased from my nomenclature and got replaced with my mother’s, ODIOR ABIKE, before my peers. No peer of mine knew my father’s name. My surname, Anaweokhai, did not help matters, as it completely obliterated his name from the equation. Humanly speaking, is there any height in life I could have attained but for his early exit? The answer is capital NO. I told a group of friends some time ago with a deep sense of responsibility that I owe my “success” in life to three factors: the grace of God, a solid family background, and a God-fearing/supportive wife. Pa Joseph Akhaniamhe Anaweokhai was a visionary father par excellence who saw beyond the limiting scope of his immediate environment. Very early in life, he migrated from his agrarian community of Ogbona to the commercial city of Onitsha to ply his trade in commodities and, to a great extent, accumulated both fortune and fame. He became a rallying point for his immediate and extended friends and family members. He also broadened his horizon beyond trading by keying into adult education, spurred by Onitsha market literature, and became literate enough to read and write, a no mean feat in the 1950s and 60s. Apart from helping to support his siblings’ children in their life endeavors, he ensured his children, Chief Vital Anaweokhai and Pst. Mrs. Julie Inu Umoru was exposed to Western education very early in their formative years too. A life-transforming investment whose benefits rubbed off on the younger ones later in life in no small measure. Pa Joseph was a nonconformist and disdainful iconoclast to the core. While girls were mostly seen as mere chattels and objects for producing children and, as such, undeserving of being wasted scarce resources on, Pa Joseph unapologetically broke with tradition and sent his only daughter, Pst. Mrs. Julie Inu Umoru, to school in the 1940s. Another lifetime investment that completely changed the family narrative. In a nutshell, Pa Joseph’s foresight had a trickle-down effect from Chief Vital Anaweokhai to my twin brother and me, the last born. If I didn’t have to struggle to pay my way through schools, from secondary school to postgraduate studies levels, it was because of the above foundation. If I made quick progress in business without any form of equivocation, it was strictly because of the said investment. On the appreciative page of my First Degree Project, I wrote, “My journey through the ivory tower like the fresh needle through a piece of cloth was so because my elder brother, Sir Romanus, and his wife, Lady Agnes Anaweokhai, said so.” If Sir Romanus saw farther than most men in all spheres of life, it was by standing on the shoulder of Pst. Mrs. Julie Inu Umoru, and if Pst. Mrs. Julie Inu Umoru was able to raise her younger ones, it was based on the sacrifice Chief Vital Anaweokhai made to see her through school. Dad, wherever you may be, I feel proud to have come into this world through your loins. If I have to come back to this world again and I am given a choice in the matter, I won’t hesitate a hoot to come here through your loins and, of course, to leverage your good legacy. Eramhe No’khai, the family has expanded beyond what you would have imagined and is blessed with good health, long life, and all-round blessings. Your first son, Chief Vital, will be 89 years old in October. A lot of grandchildren and great-grandchildren have been added to the family. Your only daughter, Pst. Mrs. Julie Inu Umoru, is now a great-grandmother, thus extending the bloodline. Sir Romanus, Adolphus, Omo, and my humble self have lived a humble and peaceful life devoid of criminality. The seed of Christianity planted in the family by your elder brother, Pa Cletus Eshiemhomo Anaweokhai, which you helped him to nurture, has grown to produce Rev. Fathers and Pastors. Your venture into business in the early 30s has snowballed into limited liability companies. Writing this piece without your attached picture is one of the most hollowing and disappointing experiences I have had in recent times. The stories are the same: “When I relocated to my new place, I misplaced them.” The good thing is that all the sources have promised to swing into action and make them available in no distant time. Continue to rest in peace, Dad. We miss you daily. Dr.John Odior Anaweokhai (Your Grown Banana Sucker)