By: Cecil Esekhaigbe
Joe as he was fondly called by everyone meant so many things to so many people.The common denomination was his ebullience, selflessness, respect for others, seeking justice at all times, professionalism and above all his undiluted love for his Esan people in particular and mankind in general.
At the Nigerian Defence Academy a normally hostile environment where seniors teach juniors the “lessons” of their lives, he earned the admiration of his seniors with a rare blend of hard work and social disposition .
To his mates he became a rallying point for hope for the future and to his juniors he was the Inspiration to conquer the hard “Lessons”.
He was my immediate senior who would come and teach the lessons of my life in daytime and look for me at night to counsel me that I must not run away with his diluted Esan ( Mabhabun bhe na) we Esan people are not many here.
Sometimes he will call me “obhiesan” Esan boy, how are you during our lessons of our lives normally dished out by immediate seniors.
He took these qualities to the officers corps and it was always JOE all the way. He could never see anyone in distress and turn his eyes away. He earned the appellate WELFARE OFFICER because of his selflessness and kindness.
Joe would not have appetite to eat or drink alone. His happiest moments were when friends came around him. No clothes, no food, no drinks and no love were too precious for Joe to share.
His dream was to make that rank Admiral and always told me he could not afford to lower the standard set by his uncle. Joe made the rank in June 2010 as at when due.
His professional exploits as an accomplished sailor , peace keeper and a bridge builder easily manifested in his resourcefulness in Command and Staff responsibilities.
Brother Joe as I used to call him showed me love and affection as my senior colleague and brother. He called me “MY CECIL” and I couldn’t do any wrong as far as he was concerned.
When I was confronted with man made STORM at the zenith of my carrier, he stood solidly behind me as helpless as it seemed and assured me that all would be well.
The first time I saw the Lion shed tears was the day I told him I was voluntarily retiring. He shook his head and asked soberly “How can you retire before me?”
I was a resource person to him in traditional matters and Esan culture especially in some deep family issues. Joe was the elder brother i never had biologically. I have to pause as my tears are competing with the ink from my pen. Hold it. I am writing in past tense. Yes because Joe has left us to meet with his Creator.
I will strive to complete this tribute with a strong conviction that Joe would make heavenly kingdom by his good deeds of touching people’s lives and his reverence to God.
My big bros rest in the arms of the Lord and be assured of good and responsible sojourn of your children on earth. God’s grace and your legacy are enough for them. |
May God forgive your human failings. Adieu the Lion (Ekpe), the Iroko of the universe and the Respected Eigbokalo of Esanland. Okinbue Obhiomen no ghemenosen.
Maj Gen Cecil Onosolease Esekhaigbe (rtd) PhD
