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

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.

By Mike Ozekhome

INTRODUCTION

In the last two parts of this treatise, we started by taking a look at the meaning of vanity of life and the ephemerality of power taking a leap from historical sketches and nuggets. Later we explored power generally and man’s dominion over it, political power, the abuse of power – noting the ephemerality of life itself. We also posed the question: ‘what is power?’. And then observed that God is the supreme power Who controls men of power, today, we shall continue and conclude with nothing lasts forever. Read on.

NOTHING LASTS FOREVER

Nothing lasts forever, even this life is vanity upon vanity. [Ecclesiastes 1:2 – 8 KJV]. In William Shakespeare’s epic in Macbeth, Macbeth himself tells, “Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage and then is heard no more: it is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.” (Act V, Scene V).

But let us not forget the seriousness of this topic; for beneath the veneer of my foregoing satire lies my profound examination of the fleeting nature of power. In a country brimming with sundry potentials, how do we navigate the tumultuous waters of leadership? How do we separate the genuine statesmen from the artificial temporary showmen? And what does it mean for a nation like Nigeria when ephemeral power eventually slips through the hands of those entrusted with its stewardship?

Power to these sit-tight leaders is like opium; it intoxicates; power is an aphrodisiac; an intoxicating liquor. It bemuses. It gives one the delusional ‘Dutch courage’. It can either make or mar the holder. It forces reason to vacate its seat. It is not certain – but – evanescent, fleeting, transitory, volatile and short-lived.

We must note that the intoxicating liquor of power can be a double-edged sword, corrupting even the noblest of intentions. Abuse of power occurs when public office holders who succumb to their baser instincts, using their positions for personal gain, and turning a blind eye to the needs and aspirations of the people they are meant to serve. Brutus, mulling his fears over Caesar’s rise to power and the stringent calls to crown him, soliloquized: “The abuse of greatness is when it disjoins remorse from power” (Shakespeare, Julius Caesar, Act II Scene I). He feared that though he had not known Caesar to be unreasonable, power may change him. So, for the common good, Caesar must die. What is therefore easily forgotten is the ‘EPHEMERALITY OF POWER’ and the temporary positions that the wielders hold. Nothing in life is permanent except for the word of God almighty Himself, which endures forever (Peter 1:25). What we ask again, and again is this: Leaders, what do you want to be remembered for when you leave power? For certainly you must leave someday. If not today, surely tomorrow; but certainly, you must.

EPHEMERALITY AND VANITY- ANY CONNECTION?

The connect between ephemerality and vanity is apparent, if not obvious: they are all but mirror-images of each other. What is vain, is at least partly so because it is ephemeral; what is ephemeral, (in the sense in which it is discussed here), is, by definition (at least, according to both the Bible and the Quran) vanity. All of it, including power and life itself. Everything is transient – almost illusory and like a mirage or a vapour: it is here today, and by tomorrow, it is gone. This dovetails neatly into the pomp, pageantry and excessive mourning which (culturally and as individuals) attend the passage or transition (death) of our loved ones. The sheer folly and mindlessness of such banal practices and traditions is best is best captured in this pith by an unknown author:
“Burials do not befit the dead. They’re dead and unaware what befits them or not. “Befitting burials” are bragging points for the living. The dead do not care. Love your loved ones while they’re here, make sacrifices for them. Give them gifts. Speak words of affirmation to them. Do acts of service for them. Touch them, hug them, kiss them, and spend time with them. Laugh and smile with them, enjoy them. Don’t save your accolades for the pages of their burial programs. The dead won’t read it. Say what you need to say now, to the ones you love who are alive. Befitting burials are for the living, not the dead. The dead do not know, the dead do not care. Go home and help the living live better!”
UNKNOWN

That is not all. Our literature is replete with innumerable musings on the subject of death and our reaction to it. A few are selected below: (https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/talkabout/articles/nine-famous-death-quotes-i-joyfully-await-the-exit-and-i-hope-never-to-return/281841)

“Analysis of death is not for the sake of becoming fearful but to appreciate this precious lifetime.” – Dalai Lama
“I have now decided that my death should be very precious. I really want to use it. I’d like my death to be as interesting as my life has been, and will be.” – David Bowie, Playboy Magazine interview, 1976.

“It’s part of the privilege of being human that we have our moment when we have to say goodbye.” – Patti Smith.

“The bitterest tears shed over graves are for words left unsaid and deeds left undone.” – Harriet Beecher Stowe.

“In the midst of death, life persists. In the midst of untruth, truth persists. In the midst of darkness, light persists.” – Mahatma Gandhi.

“Though lovers be lost, love shall not.” – Dylan Thomas.

“In life, we weep at the thought of death. In death, perhaps we weep at the thought of life.” – Marilyn Monroe.

“When you wake up from death, you will find yourself in my arms…” – Richard Brautigan.

“I joyfully await the exit – and I hope never to return” – Frida Kahlo
“I’m not afraid of death; I just don’t want to be there when it happens.” – Woody Allen.

“To the well-organized mind, death is but the next great adventure.” – J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.

“Love never dies a natural death. It dies because we don’t know how to replenish its source. It dies of blindness and errors and betrayals. It dies of illness and wounds; it dies of weariness, of witherings, of tarnishings.” – Anais Nin.

“I’m the one that’s got to die when it’s time for me to die, so let me live my life the way I want to.” – Jimi Hendrix, The Jimi Hendrix Experience – Axis: Bold as Love.

“The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.” – Mark Twain.

“Death ends a life, not a relationship.” – Mitch Albom, Tuesdays with Morrie.

“A thing is not necessarily true because a man dies for it.” – Oscar Wilde
“It is said that your life flashes before your eyes just before you die. That is true, it’s called Life.” – Terry Pratchett, The Last Continent.

“I do not fear death. I had been dead for billions and billions of years before I was born, and had not suffered the slightest inconvenience from it.” – Mark Twain.

“I don’t want to die without any scars.” – Chuck Palahniuk, Fight Club
“It kills me sometimes, how people die.” – Markus Zusak, The Book Thief
“Life is for the living. Death is for the dead. Let life be like music. And death, a note unsaid.” – Langston Hughes, The Collected Poems.

“That was the thing. You never got used to it, the idea of someone being gone. Just when you think it’s reconciled, accepted, someone points it out to you, and it just hits you all over again, that shocking.” – Sarah Dessen, The Truth About Forever.

“If you gave someone your heart and they died, did they take it with them? Did you spend the rest of forever with a hole inside you that couldn’t be filled?” – Jodi Picoult, Nineteen Minutes.

“Even death has a heart.” – Markus Zusak, The Book Thief
“Don’t feel bad, I’m usually about to die.” – Rick Riordan, The Battle of the Labyrinth.

“When people don’t express themselves, they die one piece at a time.” – Laurie Halse Anderson, Speak

CONCLUSION

The ephemerality of life underscores its vanity. What is the point of it all when it will go up like smoke in next to no time? What shall it profit a man to gain the world and lose his soul? Two questions which are opposite sides of the same coin. Suffice it to say that whether you believe in God, are an agnostic or a non-believer, the emptiness of many of our exertions, aspirations and attitudes, or of those connected to us (or even total strangers far removed from us by space and time) are stark reminders of the imperative of re-ordering our priorities and focusing on the things that really matter: substance as opposed to form; self-denial/self discipline as opposed to self-indulgence, conspicuous consumption and excess. None of us is here to live forever and we shall all make our exits sooner or later – perhaps sooner than we imagined. Death is inevitable. It stalks us all like our shadow, sticking to us wherever we go to. What matters is to live purposeful, impactful lives and leave worthy legacies that will inspire others – regardless of any notion of the hereafter and personal accountability to a Supreme Being. God, please, help us. Forgive our many sins. Look upon us with mercy. AMEN. (The end).

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

“The vanity of human life is like a river, constantly passing away, and yet constantly coming on.” (Alexander Pope).