In Memory Of A Truly Amazing Friend, Late Hon. Samuel Odinye, Egwu Ogbunike!

DR. HARRIS CHUMA-ODILI

Egwubuegwu Ogbunike, I woke up this morning to behold the heartrending tribute published online by your beloved wife, Joy Odinye. While reading the emotionally laden post-humous birthday message, it got me close to tears.

Your wife, a thorough bred broadcast Journalist, said, “Egwu Ogbunike!! You would have been 52 years today and your cake would have arrived from Abuja by now because my wife mate, Onyii Chijionwu, knew how to get it done. Odogwu m!!! Nwanonikpo nnaa!! Dike Ochiagha!! Samodi Nigeria Limited, as we fondly called you whenever you gave us special moments!! Egwubuegwu!! Ugbondu!!!”

Sammy, your wife went further to tell about how life has been without you. She critically narrated savoury things that have happened since your untimely death.

“I have so many things to discuss with you. There are so many gist I need to share with you. Did you know that Dimma has gotten admission to study Banking and Finance in the University? The twins are doing well in their final classes in the secondary School and Chisom is showing the stuff she is made of in her class by coming tops in all spelling competitions.” Joy said.

Egwu Ogbunike, I wish to bring to your notice that the people of Ogbunike missed you so much, most especially members of Ochiagha Age Grade, the most vibrant sociocultural group in Ogbunike. Since your sudden death, we are yet to find a suitable replacement of Egwubuegwu. Samodi, you are irreplaceable, is it your unique voice, your musical skills? Your creative ability was enviously unique. The Ochiagha Age Grade Ogbunike missed your musical prowess, the drumbeats, and lyrical memories.

Egwu Ogbunike, those youths of Ogbunike, whom you have invested almost all your life earnings, cannot forget your profound philanthropic gestures. The football competitions you solely sponsored for quite some years; the skill acquisition programmes you instituted, and bankrolled, the many talents you have nurtured to stardom.

Assuredly, you will forever be remembered Sammy. Ndi Ogbunike do not forget a beautiful soul. Ani Ogbunike will continue to bless the wonderful family you left behind.

As we journey into 2023 general elections, Sammy, ndi Oyi, ndi Ayamelum are missing you. Your political grassroots activism and mobilization saw you delivered many politicians who are occupying elective positions today.

Without sounding immodest, no serious politician from Anambra North, and indeed entire Anambra who would not like to tap into your political wisdom, you were, indeed, a political mathematician. You were a renowned political administrator in Oyi, a creative genius.

Ndi Ogbunike are missing your reassuring presence in the politics of Oyi.

We may have lost you but your spirit lives on long after you’re gone. Raising a toast to the incredible memory of Egwubuegwu, we celebrate your post humorous birthday, though in tears of joy.

Rest in peace Egwu Ogbunike! Samodi! Dike Ochiagha!

Ekenem!

Ogene Ogbunike