Tribute from Nabiye's Husband, Seaman

TO MY DEAR DARLING WIFE, A JEWEL OF INESTIMABLE VALUE….

On Tuesday May 3rd, 2016, you began your eternal ascent without a farewell, and your body which now lies irrevocably silent, unmoved by mortal wailings, unfettered by worldly cares, immune to weeping winds and stormy seas, undaunted by pining stars, insensitive to this vast convocation of mourners, unyielding to the desires of all that you do not depart, bears the clearest testimony to those who may not have believed that, because we are born at all, we must surely die. Anyone who does not die was never born at all. And so Death is inevitable; it is a natural event, a leveler and the end of all things. This Death has called you and you have answered. You have run the good race; you have fought the good, valiant fight and you have gone to be with the Lord.

Though your life was brief like the great, memorable chapter of a small book, you soared like an eagle seeking no other tree to perch but the iroko. You twinkled ever so brightly like the little star. You left your mark in all things that you touched and you transformed the dark colours of life to bright ones everywhere you went. You had a soft, gentle, tender but big heart, a heart of love, peace, prayerfulness, care, compassion, kindness, forgiveness … You always sought to pay your dues in everything you did; you never cut corners. You worked hard like a strong soldier. You burned the midnight oil like a resilient, untiring Amazon. Yours was the determined and patient life – determined for knowledge, patient in waiting for that which you knew would be yours. You were a dogged fighter, though your mien constantly exuded calmness. You radiated warmth that was infectious; zeal to work that was passionate.

You hugged the shadows of your dream; you unleashed the determined walk of one who sought to conquer the sun. Your song bore the certain resonance of a universal gong. Who was I not to give you a chance to do the walk of a Louis Armstrong? You listened carefully; you learned well; you followed well, and at a stupendous pace. You were marked for great things, for signs and wonders.

I want to start off by thanking everyone for being here today. I feel my wife would tell me I was being rude if I didn't. She was very hospitable that way and wanted to make sure I minded my manners. That was my Baby as we fondly called each other, always keeping me in line with her unconditional love. I want to start by saying a few things that speak to my wife's character. She was kind, smart, loving, and compassionate; pretty much all the good words I can think of apply to my wife. She was everything to me, and I miss her terribly. She knows that I loved her, but I want to express to all of you how much I loved her.

Nabiye was a good hearted person who truly loved helping others, it was that love and concern for mankind that informed her pet project and passion, a platform where she ensured that rights of women and children are aptly protected. She rarely did things for herself wanting to make sure her family was happy and healthy. She never complained about working to help me support us, she was happiest when she was working.

I am a broken man, and my better half is gone. She was beautiful both inside and out, and when she smiled at me I felt alive. I was truly blessed to have a wife who loved me and that I loved so much it hurt. I don’t know how I am going to make it without her, but I know she is up there telling me to suck it up. I am trying to honey, but it is hard without you here to keep me on track. I know that everyone here loved her and is going to miss her sweet face as much as I do. My wife was very talented. I have never met someone who could sing as beautiful as she could, I will miss her signing and hearing her say, “Good morning baby.”

I think that she is still here with all of us. Her family was her life. She would do anything for her family. We all loved her dearly and there is a great deal of loss felt within those of us gathered today. My Baby was strong until the end never losing her faith even on some of the most painful days. I have lost my wife and support system, and most of all my best friend. I’ll see you soon sweetheart. Good night baby even though it is still morning.

SEAMAN OGBAJI (HUSBAND)