Death be not proud! This is the phrase that is going through the minds of many people as they contemplate the exit of an icon, the father of Dr M. O. Ubani who is the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL).
Pa Egbedubi Nwokocha lived to be 101 years, a long and fulfilled life, leaving behind good seeds to continue the legacy of truth and great works.
More notable Nigerians are sending condolence messages to the family of Dr. Ubani on the event of the passing of his father. Although the messages are growing to become a deluge of heartfelt attempts at consolation, there is a general acknowledgement that Pa Nwokocha lived well enough to be celebrated with style at his death.
President Muhammadu Buhari is one of the earliest national-level characters to send in their condolence messages. According to him, Pa Nwokocha lived a life worth admiring and emulating. Buhari said that Ubani’s father valued peace and strived after the good of others until he became a figure of philanthropy, familial and civil duty, and integrity.
Several other important figures who also commiserated with Ubani shared the same sentiment. These include Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Governor Aminu Tanbuwal of Sokoto State, and Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State. There was also Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Niger Delta Minister Godswill Akpabio, Mines and Steel for State, Dr. Uche Ogah; Senators Ike Ekweremadu, Enyinnaya Abaribe, and Nkechi Nwaogu.
Then there’s Hon Sam Onuigbo, NBA President Olumide Akpata, President of African Bar Association Hannibal Uwaifor, and other prestigious persons from the Nigerian judiciary and financial institutions.
Such a collage of people extending a heart of fellowship indicates deep regard for Pa Nwokocha. As he passes to the next world, he does so in style.