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In Loving Memory of My Dear Mother,
In Loving Memory of My Dear Mother,
By Augustine Osayande
On the serene morning of July 30th, 1988, as the sun cast its gentle rays upon the Earth, a tight-knit family basked in the tranquil serenity. Little did they know, a profound metamorphosis awaited, poised to reshape their existence. Within this affectionate family, I, the youngest among them, held a deep longing, yearning for a profound bond with my cherished mother. Remarkably, destiny appeared to sense this desire, and an extraordinary synchronicity enveloped us, setting the stage for a poignant and intimate meal that was about to unfold.
With anticipation in the air, the family gathered eagerly around the dining table in the quaint village of Oheze-Naka, nestled within the Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State. Each member recognized the significance of this occasion, cherishing the opportunity to share a meal with their cherished matriarch. Laughter, tender conversations, and the melodious clinking of utensils created a symphony of familial love, interwoven with the aroma of the food that nourished not only their bodies but also their souls.
In that fleeting moment of unity, the bonds within the family grew stronger, etching memories that would forever resonate within their collective consciousness. They reveled in the simple joys of life—conversations filled with anecdotes, shared dreams, and mutual affection. Little did they know that this seemingly ordinary meal would become an indelible marker, standing as the final chapter of their shared culinary experiences.
However, as the sun ascended toward its zenith, casting elongated shadows in its wake, an unforeseen calamity shattered the tranquility that had enveloped their lives. The distant sound of urgency, carried by the wind, reached the ears of the youngest family member. It was the frantic shouts of their older brother, an unsettling chorus of desperation, urging them to hasten back home.
With a racing heart, the youngest rushed towards the source of the commotion, a cloud of foreboding descending upon them, casting darkness upon their world. Unbeknownst to them, the weight of tragedy hung heavily in the air. A sense of impending sorrow clung to their every step, growing more burdensome with each passing second. Their reality was about to be irreversibly shattered.
Upon arriving at their family abode, their brother’s grief-stricken and disbelieving face conveyed volumes before any words were spoken. The youngest listened, trembling, as the devastating news unfolded. Their beloved mother, Mrs. Ona Osayande, the beacon of warmth and love, had departed from this world, leaving behind an agonizing void that could never be filled.
The realization crashed upon them like an overwhelming tidal wave, stripping away the innocence and joy they had embraced just hours earlier. A profound sense of loss, anguish, and disbelief gripped their heart, leaving them numb, unable to comprehend the cruel twist of fate that had so abruptly snatched their mother from their lives.
Today, as I reflect on the passing of 35 years since you departed this earthly realm, emotions overwhelm me. Though the pain of losing you still lingers, I find solace in the countless beautiful memories we shared together. You were not merely a mother to me; you were my guiding light, my source of strength, and my best friend. Your unwavering love and support nurtured me, shaping the person I have become.
From the earliest moments of my life, you embraced the role of a loving mother with open arms, and your dedication knew no bounds. Your wise words echoed in my mind during times of struggle, providing me with the courage to persevere. Your gentle touch reassured me in moments of doubt, reminding me that I was never alone.
Mum, your selflessness and compassion were unparalleled. You devoted your life to caring for others, even those unrelated to you, showering us all with warmth and affection. Your love extended beyond the boundaries of our immediate family, reaching out to those in need and brightening their lives with your kind heart. You taught me the value of kindness, empathy, and generosity, traits that I strive to embody every day. Your acts of love were not confined to our home; you touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know you.
As the years have passed, I have come to appreciate the depth of your character even more. You faced adversity with grace, never allowing it to diminish the inner light that shone so brightly within you. Your resilience in the face of challenges serves as a constant reminder to persevere and never lose hope. Your unwavering faith in the goodness of the world inspired me to see beyond difficulties and embrace life with optimism.
Although I wish I could have shared more of my life with you, I take comfort in knowing that you continue to live on in my heart. Your love and spirit remain a guiding force, illuminating my path and reminding me of the importance of cherishing every moment. The lessons you taught me are etched into my very being, shaping my decisions and actions. Your memory fuels my determination to live a life that honors the values you instilled in me.
Today, I honor you, dear mother, by celebrating your life and the profound impact you had on me and those around you. Your memory will forever be etched in my soul, and I will strive to make you proud every day. As I navigate life’s challenges, I find strength in knowing that you are watching over me, guiding me from above. Your unconditional love continues to be a guiding light, comforting me in moments of darkness and encouraging me to reach for the stars.
Years have passed, and as the youngest child, I carry the weight of that fateful day forever marked by the fleeting happiness of our last meal together, mother. Through the depths of sorrow, I have emerged with a profound understanding of the fragility of life, holding tightly to the memories and lessons imparted by our dear mother. Though physically absent, her spirit will forever guide and inspire us, reminding us to embrace each passing moment.
Thank you, dear mother, for everything you were and still are to me. Though the years may continue to pass, the love we shared will endure for eternity. As I carry your legacy forward, I promise to pass on the love, compassion, and wisdom you bestowed upon me. Your spirit lives on in me, and as I embark on the journey of life, I am forever grateful to have had you as my mother. Until we meet again, may you rest in eternal peace, knowing that you are loved beyond measure.
***Augustine Osayande contributed this article through austinelande@yahoo.com
In Loving Memory of My Dear Mother
Zulum Visits Frontline Troops in Mairari, Inspects Dilapidated FGC Monguno
By: Our Reporter
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Tuesday, visited the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mairari to bolster the morale of troops on the frontline.
Mairari, a strategic town in the state, endured two insurgent attacks in December. On both occasions, the assaults were successfully repelled by troops, averting a significant security breach.
Governor Zulum, who is currently on a resilience-building tour of Northern Borno, commended the officers and men for their bravery and sacrifice, describing them as the backbone of peace and stability in the state.
“Your resilience and commitment inspire confidence in our people,” the Governor stated. “I want to assure you that my administration will continue to provide all necessary logistics and welfare support to boost your morale and enhance your operational effectiveness. Mairari will not fall.”
He emphasised that the state government, in collaboration with the Federal Government and military high command, would ensure a steady supply of operational logistics, mobility support, and welfare packages to keep troops combat-ready.
The Commander of Sector 3, Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Suleiman Saidu Tilawan, commended the Governor for his consistent and proactive support.
“The support we receive from the Borno State Government and the Theatre Commander has been exceptional,” he said. “It has translated into improved logistics, enhanced morale, and renewed confidence among our troops to confront threats head-on.”
Governor Zulum also interacted with residents of Mairari, listening to their concerns and commending their courage. He described the community as a symbol of resilience and announced cash assistance to those affected by the recent attacks to ease hardships and support recovery.
…Zulum Inspects Dilapidated FGC Monguno
Earlier in the day, Governor Zulum conducted an inspection of the abandoned Federal Government College in Monguno.
He assessed extensively damaged classrooms, vandalized laboratories, and deteriorating staff quarters, tangible reminders of the insurgency’s impact on public institutions.
The Governor said the purpose of the visit was to assess the damage and identify practical steps for the college’s full rehabilitation. “Education is the foundation upon which any peaceful, prosperous, and resilient society is built,” Governor Zulum stressed. “Rebuilding schools is central to the long-term recovery and stability of our dear state.”
He assured that his administration would spare no effort in restoring the school, with the ultimate goal of ensuring children from Monguno and neighbouring communities can access quality education.
During the inspection, Governor Zulum encountered widows who are taken refuge in some of the abandoned structures and provided them with cash assistance and facilitated the admission of some of their qualified daughters into the Monguno College of Nursing and Midwifery, offering them a pathway to education and future self-reliance.
Zulum Visits Frontline Troops in Mairari, Inspects Dilapidated FGC Monguno
News
Yuletide: NSCDC Deploys 55,000 Operatives Nationwide, Intensifies Intelligence to Tackle Insecurity
Yuletide: NSCDC Deploys 55,000 Operatives Nationwide, Intensifies Intelligence to Tackle Insecurity
By: Michael Mike
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed over 55,000 operatives across the country to ensure public safety and protect critical national assets and infrastructure during the Christmas and New Year festivities.
The Commandant General of the Corps, Prof. Ahmed Audi, ordered the nationwide deployment as part of measures to strengthen the nation’s security architecture before, during and after the yuletide period.
Audi said the decision became imperative in view of the tendency of criminal elements to exploit festive periods to carry out acts of banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, insurgency and other crimes.
He stressed that many security threats could be effectively curtailed if citizens embraced the culture of providing credible and timely intelligence to security agencies. According to him, proactive intelligence-sharing would aid early intervention and lead to the arrest of individuals who pose threats to national security.
“To prevent crimes rather than react to them, it is imperative for members of the public to trust and collaborate with us by providing credible and timely information that will enable swift action,” the NSCDC boss said.
Audi directed Zonal Commanders to closely monitor formations under their jurisdiction, while State Commandants are to coordinate Area Commands, Divisional Offices and other operational units to ensure effective coverage.
He explained that the deployment involves both covert and overt operations, with full mobilisation of personnel aimed at guaranteeing maximum human security and safeguarding government assets nationwide.
Reaffirming the Corps’ commitment to national peace and stability, the NSCDC helmsman assured Nigerians of enhanced collaboration with sister security agencies to ensure a safe environment conducive to development.
He said: “Our unwavering commitment is to ensure a safe and secure environment, and this can only be achieved with the active support of the public.”
The assurance was contained in a statement signed by the National Public Relations Officer of the Corps, Afolabi Babawale.
Yuletide: NSCDC Deploys 55,000 Operatives Nationwide, Intensifies Intelligence to Tackle Insecurity
Military arrest policemen on VIP escort duty in violation of President Tinubu’s directive
By: Zagazola Makama
The military has arrested four police officers for allegedly providing unauthorised escort services to a VIP in contravention of the presidential directive on the withdrawal of policemen from VIP protection duties.
Police sources told Zagazola Makama that the arrest occurred on Dec. 17 at about 9:30 a.m., while the officers were reportedly on escort duty.
Those arrested were identified as ASP Musa Waziri and Insp. Jeremiah Achimogu both attached to 45 Police Mobile Force (PMF), Abuja; Insp. Awipi Terry of 21 PMF; and Insp. Hassan Baba of 50 PMF, Abuja.
According to security sources, the officers were arrested by military personnel after allegedly flouting the presidential order withdrawing police personnel from VIP escort duties.
The sources further disclosed that the policemen were dressed in uniforms similar to that of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), allegedly in an attempt to evade detection and deceive enforcement personnel.
The arrested officers have since been detained, while disciplinary procedures have been initiated against them in line with extant regulations.
The Federal Government had earlier directed the immediate withdrawal of police personnel from unauthorised VIP protection duties to redeploy manpower to core policing and internal security operations across the country.
Military arrest policemen on VIP escort duty in violation of President Tinubu’s directive
Zulum Visits Frontline Troops in Mairari, Inspects Dilapidated FGC Monguno
Yuletide: NSCDC Deploys 55,000 Operatives Nationwide, Intensifies Intelligence to Tackle Insecurity
Military arrest policemen on VIP escort duty in violation of President Tinubu’s directive
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