By Prof  Mike Ozekhome SAN

INTRODUCTION

In the heart of Nigeria, nestled in the ancient city of Benin, lives a great name that resonates with power, resourcefulness, entrepreneurship, influence, benevolence, generosity, philanthropy, altruism, social conscience, public spiritedness and exemplary leadership.

“Be not afraid of greatness. Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them” – Williams Shakespeare in Twelfth Night (Act 2 Scene 5).

Our subject of discourse, was neither born great nor did he have greatness thrust upon him. Rather, he achieved greatness. He did this by dint of hardwork, perseverance and diligence. He enjoys the middle greatness of William Shakespeare. He is a colossus.

That colossus is Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion. His famous traditional title is Esama of Benin which traditionally means “the son of the people” who has the responsibility of assisting the poor in monetary and private ventures. In this, our subject of discourse has excelled. He is a man whose life story is a loud testament to the power of determination, vision and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of his community and country. With a legacy that spans over seven decades, Esama Igbinedion has left an indelible mark on the social, political and economic landscape of Nigeria. His is a story of “impossibility made possible” (Apologies to another legend, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, CON, whose biography has the same title). Esama Igbinedion is a man whose octopaedal impact reaches far beyond the boundaries of his homeland of Edo and echoes globally.

TENDERFEET

Chief Igbinedion, a Christian, Catholic, teetotaler and Honorary Romania Consult to Edo and Delta States since 2005, was born on the 11th day of September, 1934, in the then small farming village of Okada in the present Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. He was born to the family of late Josiah Agharagbon Oviawe Igbinedion and Madam Okunozee (nee Ihaza), a descendant of the Royal House of Usen. He is the only surviving child of both parents. Igbinedion’s upbringing was rooted in modesty; and he was raised in a traditional African household where values of honesty, integrity, hard work, respect for elders and community solidarity were instilled in him from a very tender age. The highly revered Esama had, at the early stage of his life, beaten the dusty streets of Benin, selling kerosine in bottles. That did not deter him. He trudged on. He conquered poverty; anonymity.

These formative years showcased his potentials as a future leader. His uncompromising entrepreneurship began to manifest. He demonstrated exceptional academic ability and an innate flair for business, traits that would later serve him well in years to come. It is true the aphorisms that the morning tells the day and that the dog that would bear a curved tail can be easily spotted from its puppy stage.

A-Z ALPHABETS

Igbinedion began his A-Z alphabets learning process of primary education at the Roman Catholic School, Okada, now known as St. Gabriel’s Primary School Okada. When he moved to Benin, he was enrolled at the Benin Baptist School, now known as Emokpae Primary School on Mission Road in Benin City. This was after short periods at Ezomo Baptist School and Ore Oghene Primary School, all located in Benin City. His movement to Benin from Okada was motivated by a number of factors, fundamental amongst which was the death of his father. Being of humble beginning, Esama was not in any position to continue his education without his father. He had to seek the support of well wishers. He left Okada to live in Benin City as a househelp to, among others, Mr. Samson Aiwekhoe Idahosa, a Forest Guard at Okada who enrolled him at the Benin Baptist School. In an interview, Mr. Idahosa disclosed that he brought the young Osawaru to settle in Benin City; and that all he brought along with him were a few clothes purchased partly with the reclaimed bride price of twelve pounds which his father had paid on a young wife who was yet to join him before he died.

VENTURING INTO AN INCLEMENT WORLD

Esama Igbinedion’s journey into the harsh world of business commenced with a small-scale trading enterprise in the heart of Benin City. His initial ventures included trading in goods such as soft drinks, groceries and textiles. Chief Igbinedion’s heroic contribution is in the form of putting back the Kingdom on the map of the world as in the days of old. Benin Empire had acquired international status in the 16th century as an empire of commerce and cultural excellence, a situation that was marred partially by the event of 1897. The Benin Kingdom today has sufficiently regained a large portion of its lost glory not in terms of territorial size, but in international fame through the conscious activities of contemporary Benin heroes. However, it was his foray into the transportation industry that marked a turning point in his checkered career. In 1983, he established the Okada Air, which operated both domestic and international flights, commencing with a charter operation in September, 1983, with a fleet of BAC-One Eleven 300s.

Under his visionary leadership, Okada Air grew rapidly, with over 40 aircraft (planes and helicopters), thus becoming one of Nigeria’s most successful airlines of its time whose name could have entered the Guiness Book of Records. This marked the beginning of Esama Igbinedion’s ascent as a leading business mogul and uncommon entrepreneur in Nigeria. His success in the transportation industry paved the way for him to diversify into other sectors, including education, real estate, hospitality and banking.

It was in the peak of Nigeria’s oil boom in1981 that Igbinedion saw the need for the active participation of the private sector in the Aviation industry. In that year, Chief Igbinedion purchased his first private aircraft through one Mr. Derek Lowe of Executive Jet Sales. The HS125 was launched and blessed at Benin Airport by His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediuwa, the Oba of Benin. Thereafter, in 1983, Igbinedion boldly recorded the first private initiative in the fledgling Aviation industry when he established Okada Airline Ltd. His next venture was the purchase of a BAC 1-11 executive jet which was formerly owned by the deposed President Ferdinand Marcos of the Philippines.

Chief Igbinedion was enraptured with the BAC 1-11 Series. By 1988, the Okada Airline fleet comprised two executive BAC 1-11 and nine BAC 1-11 passenger/cargo aircraft. This feat was accomplished with the help of Mr. D.H. Walter of British Caledonian, who was responsible for the sale of the BAC 1-11 fleet from Sir Freddie Laker of Laker Airways. From that moment on, Okada Airline began to grow by leaps and bounds. With the support of major Aviators such as British Aerospace, Rolls-Royce, Aer Lingus, Dan Air, Rogers Aviation, A.J. Walter, FLS Aerospace, Dunlop Aviation & Tyres amongst others. At the climax of Okada Air’s tale of success, Chief Igbinedion had amassed a fleet of over 40 aircraft!.

Chief Igbinedion later made history with the acquisition of a Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet. The B747 was officially commissioned by the then Vice President, Admiral Augustus Aikhomu on behalf of the then President, General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida who also graced the occasion. The arrival of President Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida in recognition of this unparalleled achievement by a Nigerian citizen gave the commissioning ceremony the Presidential Seal and launched the aircraft into service. This auspicious ceremony took place at the Abuja International Airport on 7th May, 1992, making Chief Igbinedion, the Chairman of Okada Airline, the first black man in the twentieth century to own and operate a Boeing 747 aircraft.

Esama Igbinedion’s commitment to economic development extended beyond his personal ventures. He actively contributed to the growth of Benin City and Edo State through various infrastructural investments and philanthropic initiatives. His investments in real estate, including the development of the sprawling Okada Wonderland Resort, contributed to the economic development and tourism potential of the region.

He introduced, arguably, the first Tennis Tournament ever held in Nigeria with the Ogbe Hard Court Tournament which threw up international Tennis Stars such as Nduka Odizor (“the Duke”), David Imonite and Veronica Oyibokia. Odizor remains the only Nigerian that ever reached the round of 16 at the Wimbledon Grand Slam. The Tournament attracted global superstars among whom was American Tennis legend, Arthur Ashe.

The tall, handsome, debonair, sartorial, magisterial and fair-complexioned Esama is happily married to beautiful Lady Cherry Igbinedion, an indigene of Jamaica. His children include a successful son, Chief Lucky, who was a two-term Local Government Chairman and two-term Governor of Edo State. Another son, Bright Igbinedion, is an internationally acclaimed Oil and Gas Czar; while Charles was a Local Government Chairman and one time Edo State Commissioner for Education. Yet, a third one, Peter, was the Managing Director of the Nigerian Aviation Authority (NAA). Michael Igbinedion, a chip off the old block, is Chairman/CEO of a group of companies with diverse interests in Oil and Gas, water, hospitality and realty. One of Esama’s daughters, Hon. Omosede Igbinedion, is a top politician and a former member of the Federal House of Representatives, representing Ovia Federal Constituency in Edo State. There are many other successful children, as the Igbinedion orchard has produced many illustrious fruits that did not fall far away from the parent tree. Considering Walt Disney’s quote that “life is beautiful; its about giving; its about family”; and Pope John XXIII’s dictum that “the family is the essential cell of human society”, it is as clear as a whistle that the Esama has succeeded exceptionally.

It is no easy task to render an exhaustive account of Chief Igbinedion’s conquests on the global business arena. However, it is pertinent to say that his numerous companies have over the years cut across diverse areas such as Aviation, Radio (92.3 FM); and television broadcasting (Igbinedion TV); salt manufacturing; crude oil exploration; and solid minerals (marble, gold and diamond mines across Africa). He had also ventured into soft drinks bottling; real estate; fruit and fish farming; palm oil production, petroleum and gas marketing; shipping, haulage, road transport, confectionery and hospitality (numerous hotels); among many other businesses. He once owned the now defunct famous Crown Merchant Bank. But perhaps, one of his greatest legacies will be the pioneering of Mid Motors (Nig.) Limited in 1968, the first indigenous Motor Assembly plant in Nigeria.

PHILANTHROPY

Esama Igbinedion’s philanthropic strides extend to healthcare, as he founded the Igbinedion Medical Centre, which has since provided top-notch medical services to the people of Edo State and beyond. He has built numerous churches including a grand catholic cathedral and private hospitals across Nigeria. The Esama has been a “Jack-of-all-Trades” and “Master of all”. Similarly, the Benin Kingdom has been made proud by the Esama in other circumstances. It produced through Chief Igbinedion, the highest donor to the 1984/85 Bendel State Development Fund; the Cross River State Development Fund; the Plateau State Development Fund, Langtang Chapter; Niger State Development Fund; and the highest donor in Nigeria to the Southern Africa Relief Fund. This was Chief Igbinedion’s contribution to the dismantling of apartheid amid the freedom of Nelson Mandela. He was also the first individual in Africa to provide and maintain a point-to-multipoint microwave telephone system to link Okada, his home town, to the world, a project commissioned by Col. A. Tanko Ayuba, the then Minister of Communications on 10th August,1987. Chief Osawaru Igbinedion was the first Nigerian to establish the largest and best equipped private hospital and medical research centre in Nigeria and West Africa.
It is often said, sometimes enviously, sometimes admiringly, but always with a hint of awe, that Papa Igbinedion, has wielded more powers and influence over a longer period than any business leader in Nigeria of today. But he is too polite to make such a claim himself; even as he tacitly acknowledges its validity. When asked what he has learnt about being so powerful on the Nigerian business terrain, he simply smiled and said, “It is tough and lonely at the top.” Lonely at the top? Is it not even very damp at the bottom where he trudged for decades?

Everything Igbinedion does creates a chain of spirally reactions, often leading to unexpected theories, conspiracies, combinations and conjectures. It is with gratitude to the Almighty God that it is acknowledged that the aging “Lion of Okada” has many competent children who now play the roles he once played in his business empire. But the convivial Esama still seems frisky and in no hurry to step aside, even at a nonagenarian age. Even when he does, he will continue to play the roles he dearly relishes: powerful, rococo, luminous, flamboyant, colourful and unrivalled in setting the pace and standards for others to follow. He will continue to be imitated and emulated by generations yet unborn.

The name CHIEF GABRIEL OSAWARU IGBINEDION has since become synonymous with success, courage and daring bravado, for he has always been a man who treads where even angels fear to approach.

A respected member of the Eghavbonore elite league in the Oba of Benin’s Palace in the great Benin Kingdom (a group to which I proudly belong as the Enobakhare of Benin) the Esama is today the Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Regents of the first private University in Nigeria, the Igbinedion University at Okada. This position which he occupies is a befitting tribute to his over 50 years of tenacious struggle to bring about phenomenal development in the education sector. It was the struggle of his life to which this relentless moneybag selflessly committed enormous resources, time, energy and talents. And he has succeeded. Thanks be to God Most High.

HIS MANY CHALLENGES AND CONTROVERSIES

Like many historical figures, Esama Igbinedion’s life and career have not been without their fair share of controversies and challenges. His businesses, many a time, faced economic downturns and government interference. The aviation industry, in particular, was marked by turbulence. Okada Air eventually faced mounting financial difficulties and was liquidated in the late 1990s.

The Esama was also in 2008 suspended from participating in palace activities due to some disagreements. It is however on record that the Oba of Benin did not declare the Esama as an enemy of the Palace as was widely but wrongly speculated. He was suspended as the Esama of Benin. On the 13th day of June, 2012, upon forgiveness by the revered Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediuwa, the Palace made a press release (BTC.A66/VOL.V/171) which unambiguously informed the general public that the Esama had been forgiven and that the suspension earlier placed on Igbinedion had been lifted. This was an affirmation that Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion remains the Esama of Benin Kingdom and a very loyal Palace Chief to the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II. Oba Ghato Kpere! Isee.

FROM POLITICS TO TRADITION

Esama Igbinedion’s influence wasn’t confined solely to the business arena. He has also played a significant role in Nigerian politics, using his boundless wealth and resources to support various political causes and candidates, including that of Chief Lucky, his son. His involvement in politics was characterized by his commitment to the betterment of his immediate community and the entire country.

The Esama as a traditional icon has played a significant role in traditional and cultural affairs. He has used his prestigious title of the Esama of Benin (a high-ranking traditional chieftaincy title bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to the Benin Kingdom), to influence, promote and preserve the rich customs, traditions and renaissance of the cultural heritage of the Benin people and Benin Kingdom.

ESAMA’S IMPERISHABLE LEGACY

Regardless of the challenges he faced early in life, Esama Igbinedion’s legacy is one that cannot be denied or diminished. His contributions to the youth, business, education, healthcare, hospitality and cultural renaissance have left an indelible mark on the landscape of Edo State in particular, Nigeria and Africa in general. His philanthropic endeavors continue to impact the lives of countless individuals who have benefited and continue to benefit immensely from the various institutions he established and financed.

DRAWING THE CURTAINS

In the grand tapestry of Nigerian history and culture, the name Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin, stands out as a symbol of resilience, determination and unwavering commitment to community development and lifting from doldrums, the holloipoloi. From his humble beginnings in Okada and Benin City, to his rise as a prominent businessman, philanthropist extraordinaire, foremost traditional icon and cultural Ambassador, Esama Igbinedion’s life story is a living testament to the power of vision, determination, hard work and doggedness.

The Esama remains a revered figure; a living prodigy and legend, celebrated for his works to uplift humanity.

In reflecting on the life and legacy of Esama Igbinedion, one cannot help but be inspired and energised by his journey from a small trading enterprise to becoming a towering figure in the Nigerian and African space. His story serves as a reminder to us all that with sheer determination, resilience, doggedness and a principled commitment to the betterment of one’s society, it is possible to leave a lasting legacy that transcends generations. The Esama is doing just that. He is a pride to Edo State, Nigeria, Africa and the Black Race. This is why he deserves to be celebrated while he is still alive. He must be told in clear terms that he has done excellently well. Papa Esama sir, march on. Continue to conquer and excel. Continue to remain regal, resplendent and noble.

Congratulations sir on your 90th birthday. For you, Genesis 6: 3 is assured.

By Prof Mike Ozekhome SAN

INTRODUCTION

MEANING AND CONCEPT OF INTEGRITY

“Integrity” is the qualifications of being honest and having strong moral principles moral uprightness. It is generally a personal choice to hold oneself to consistent moral and ethical standards.’ Koehn defined integrity as “the compassionate and receptive work of making the self whole and enduringly happy through critically and assiduously separating who we truly are from the false ego.”2 Integrity has also been described as: “adhering to what one believes to be right, especially when a price is paid in foregoing immediate gain.

Significant attention is given to the subject of integrity in law and the conception of law in 20th century philosophy of law and jurisprudence centering in part on the research of Ronald Dworkin as studied in his book, “Law’s Empire.” Dworkin’s position on integrity in law reinforces the conception of justice viewed as fairness

CONCEPT OF INTEGRITY
A value system’s abstraction depth and range of applicable interaction may also function as significant factors in identifying integrity due to their congruence or lack of congruence with observation. A value system may evolve over time,” while retaining integrity, if those who espouse the Integrity: Doing the Right Thing for the Right Reason. McGill-Queen’s University values account for and resolve inconsistencies. An individual’s value system provides a framework within which the individual acts in ways which are consistent and expected.
Integrity can be seen as the state or condition of having such a framework, and acting congruently within the given framework. In personal ethics, this principle requires that one should not act according to any rule that one would not wish to see universally followed. For example, one should not steal unless one would want to live in a world in which everyone was a thief. The philosopher, Immanuel Kant, formally described the principle of universal application in his categorical imperative.

The concept of integrity implies a wholeness, a comprehensive corpus of beliefs, often referred to as a worldview. This concept of wholeness emphasizes honesty and authenticity, requiring that one acts at all times in accordance with the individual’s chosen worldview. McFall, summarizing the essence of this philosophical integrity, believes that personal and literary rendering of personal integrity requires the individual exercising such to: (1) subscribe to some consistent set of principles or commitments and (2), in the face of temptation or challenge, (3) uphold these principles or commitments, (4) for what the agent takes to be the right reasons?

Sampford has suggested that integrity involves asking questions about our values, giving honest and public answers and attempting to live by those answers,” Similarly, Bloskie concluded that integrity simply: “implies a consistency or a coherence between one’s personal beliefs and behaviour” and is the result of a” coherence of values, aims and behaviours. Simons has also described integrity as: “the perceived degree of congruence between the values expressed by words and those expressed through action. So it is theoretically arguable that one
could have integrity and yet not be a good person.

Integrity is one of the top attributes of a great leader. It is a concept of consistency of actions, values, methods, measures, principles, expectations and outcomes. It connotes a deep commitment to do the right thing for the right reason, regardless of the circumstances. Choosing the right, regardless of the consequence, is the hallmark of integrity. For instance, Jurkiewicz and Giacalone, dissecting the importance of integrity in leadership as part of a values framework in workplace,
links it to respect, justice, responsibility and trust. Leaders with integrity walk the talk. They are consistent, honest, moral and trustworthy. Their deeds match their words. Leaders without integrity can’t be trusted – by their colleagues or the public and inevitably, that will lead to problems. In the protection of human rights, it is of great importance that leadership of the country trustworthy. They must apply the Constitution and laws dealing with human rights and civil liberties as they have voluntarily sworn to. To this end; Muel Kaptein opines that integrity starts with what politicians should know and what their position entails, since integrity demands knowledge and compliance with both the letter and the spirit of
the written and unwritten rules. So by ‘leading with integrity’, we are talking about behaviours in the leader that seek to yield the most moral outcomes, even when there is a cost (however short-term), to the leader, as a result.

WHAT ARE HUMAN RIGHTS?
Human rights are moral principles or norms.” which describe certain standards of human behavior, and are regularly protected as legal rights in municipal and international law. They are commonly understood as inalienable’ “fundamental rights” to which a person is inherently entitled simply because she or he is a human being, and which are “inherent in all human beings” regardless of their nation, location, language, religion, ethnic origin or any other status. They are applicable everywhere and at every time in the sense of being universal and they are egalitarian in the sense of being the same for everyone. They require empathy and the rule of law and impose an obligation on persons to respect the human rights of others.”They should not be taken away except as a result of due process based on specific circumstances for example, human rights may include
freedom from unlawful imprisonment, torture, and execution.

HISTORICAL SOURCES OF HUMAN RIGHTS

Historical sources for human rights can be traced to past documents, particularly Constitution of Medina (622), Al-Risalah al-Huquq (659-713), Magna Carta (1215), the English Bill of Rights (1689), the French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen (1789), and the Bill of Rights in the United States Constitution (1791). Early philosophical sources of the idea of human rights include Francisco Suarez, Hugo Grotius, Samuel Pufendorf, John Locke, and Immanuel Kant. The idea of human rights suggests that “if the public discourse of peacetime global society can be said to have a common moral language, it is that of human rights. Many of the basic ideas that animated the human rights movement developed in the aftermath of the Second World War and the atrocities of The Holocaust culminating in the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Paris by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948.

The United Nations General Assembly in 1948, partly in response to the atrocities of World War II. It is generally viewed as the preeminent statement of international rights and has been identified as being a culmination of centuries of thinking along both secular and religious lives Although the UDHR is a non-binding resolution, it is now considered by some to have acquired the force of international customary law which may be invoked in appropriate circumstances by national and other tribunals. The UDHR urges member nations to promote a number of human, civil, economic and social rights, asserting these rights as part of the “foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world.” The declaration was the first international legal effort to limit the behaviour of states and press upon them duties to their citizens.

Thought for the week

“One of the truest tests of integrity is its blunt refusal to be compromised”. (Chinua Achebe).

By Prof. Mike Ozekhome

In the serene town of Ugep, nestled in the verdant embrace of Cross River State, Nigeria, the 24th of August, 1986, marked the birth of a remarkable soul, Dr. Essien Ibiang Ewa. His arrival brought joy and jubilation to the home of Professor Ibiang Oden Ewa and Mrs. Patricia Ibiang Ewa, who saw in their youngest child the manifestation of God’s enduring faithfulness. In a world often fraught with uncertainties, Essien was a beacon of love, hope and resilience qualities that he exhibited from his earliest days.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11). This biblical promise seemed to resonate through every step of Essien’s life, guiding him with a quiet, yet resolute confidence that the path ahead, though fraught with challenges, was paved with purpose and divine intent.

Essien was the youngest of four children, but from a tender age, he displayed a maturity and sense of responsibility that belied his years. His gentle spirit and loving nature endeared him to everyone around him. As he grew, these qualities only deepened, making him a beloved son, brother and friend. The values of integrity, kindness and a relentless pursuit of knowledge were instilled in him by his parents, who nurtured his inquisitive mind and caring heart.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” said Nelson Mandela; and Essien embodied this truth throughout his life. His post Secondary School academic journey began at the University of Calabar, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and International Studies in 2009. But Essien’s thirst for knowledge was unquenchable, leading him to further his education with a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration in 2015 and a Master’s degree in the same field in 2019.

Education was not merely a pursuit for Essien; it was a calling. He believed, as Aristotle once proclaimed, that “The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.” He embraced the challenges of his studies, knowing that the knowledge and skills he acquired would empower him to make a meaningful impact on the world. His academic quest led in 2023 to return to his alma mater, the University of Calabar, where he earned a doctorate degree in Public Administration with specialization in Human Resource Management. This uncommon achievement was a loud testament to his dedication, perseverance and a deep belief that education is a lifelong journey of growth and discovery.

Essien’s professional career was equally distinguished. He began as an Administrative Assistant at Harig Oil and Gas in Lagos, where his talents and work ethic quickly became evident. He rose through the ranks in various organizations, ultimately becoming the Business Operations Manager at Medeba Limited in Lagos. Yet, Essien’s restless entrepreneurial spirit yearned for more, leading him to found two successful ventures, Delkor Security and Brug Travels. These companies were more than just business endeavors; they were reflections of Essien’s vision for a better world, a world where security and exploration were accessible to all.

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do,” said Steve Jobs, and Essien lived by this creed. His love for his work was evident in every aspect of his life. He approached his businesses with the same passion and dedication that he brought to his studies; and his success was a natural outgrowth of his commitment to excellence.

Yet, beyond his professional achievements, Essien was a man of deep faith and unwavering conviction. His relationship with God was the cornerstone of his life, providing him with the strength to face life’s challenges with grace and resilience. “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul” (Psalm 23:1-3). This psalm was not just a verse for Essien, it was a way of life. His faith was a constant source of comfort and guidance, leading him through both the valleys and the mountaintops of his journey.

Essien’s battle with sickle cell anemia could have defined him, but instead, it revealed the depth of his character and the strength of his spirit. “Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will,” said Mahatma Gandhi; and Essien’s life was a testament to this truth. He faced his condition not with despair, but with determination and an unyielding will to live life to its fullest.

Despite the challenges he faced, Essien never wavered in his commitment to his family, his community and his faith. In 2022, he co-founded The Youth Lobby Group, an organization dedicated to encouraging greater youth involvement in the governance of Cross River State. This endeavor was born out of Essien’s deep belief that young people are the driving force behind societal change. “The youth are the hope of our future,” said Jose Rizal and Essien dedicated himself to empowering the next generation to take an active role in shaping their communities and their nation.
Essien’s passion for youth empowerment was matched only by his love for his family. He was a devoted husband to Peace Sable Ekpenyong and a loving father to their son, Kebe. His family was his greatest source of joy and pride, and he took every opportunity to express his love and support for them. “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children,” (Proverbs 13:22); and while Essien’s life may have been shorter than many, the inheritance he left behind of love, wisdom and a legacy of service is immeasurable.

His life was a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of love, faith, and service. He had a deep love for music, reading, and building meaningful relationships. His sociable nature and warm personality made him a beloved figure among his peers. “No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main,” wrote John Donne. Essien lived this truth by cultivating deep and lasting relationships with those around him.

Essien’s journey on this earth came to a peaceful end on August 7, 2024, just weeks before his 38th birthday. His passing is a great loss to his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched. Yet, even in death, his legacy lives on. A legacy of love, service, and an indomitable spirit that will continue to inspire future generations. “To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die,” wrote Thomas Campbell. Essien will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

As we reflect on Essien’s life, we are reminded of the words of Martin Luther King Jr.: “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” Essien stood tall in the face of adversity, his faith unwavering, his love unfaltering. He was a man who lived his life with purpose, guided by the principles of integrity, kindness and service.

In the end, Essien’s life is a testament to the words of the Apostle Paul: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). Essien fought the good fight with grace and dignity, finishing his race with a legacy that will endure for generations to come. His life serves as an example to us all of what it means to live with faith, love, and an indomitable spirit.

As we say our final goodbyes to Dr. Essien Ibiang Ewa, we do so with heavy hearts, but also with a profound sense of gratitude for the life he lived. He was a son, a brother, a husband, a father, a mentor, a friend, and a leader. He was a man of faith, a man of vision and a man of action. His journey may have ended, but his story will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
“Well done, good and faithful servant,” we can imagine these words being spoken to Essien as he enters into his eternal rest. He has fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. Now, he rests in the arms of his Saviour, where there is no more pain, no more sickle cell, no more suffering, and no more tears.

“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:1-2). Essien’s place is now prepared, and while he is no longer with us in body, his spirit remains, a shining light that will continue to guide and inspire those he leaves behind.

Dr. Essien Ibiang Ewa, your life was a gift to all who knew you, and your legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who follow in your footsteps. You have shown us what it means to live a life of purpose, faith, and love, and for that, we are eternally grateful. May your soul rest in perfect peace, and may your memory be a blessing to us all, amen.