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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
State Actors Grumble Over Operational Allowances Within the Hadin Kai Theatre.
By: Bodunrin Kayode
There is a quiet grumble within the ranks of the Joint Security team in the Hadin Kai theatre with an allegation that some forward operational bases are paid discriminatory allowances.
Some sources within the non military rankings who spoke with this reporter claim that their military colleagues in some forward operational bases (FOB) are actually paid higher than the rest of them by the pay masters who are supposed to release these funds.
This has actually led to a silent outcry by some of the security personnel within the ranks of the Hadin Kai theatre who have decried what they described as the unnecessary disparity between their operational allowances and that of the military.
“There has been some underground grumbling within the ranks of the uniformed personnel in the Hadin Kai theatre over allowances and I am talking about the para military and the police who are in the team in this very sector one.
” From our investigation, it has never happened before and that makes it strange and we believe it is not known to the theatre commander (TC) who we all know as a just man who wants all of us to be happy.
” And that is why we are passing this injustice through you people because you are equal partners in the battles we are fighting against our common enemy because we believe the wrong will be reversed as soon as he gets to hear.
“At our own FOB for now, I can say the drilling for crude oil has stopped but we are pinning the ground against the criminals. And I must tell you, the main challenges here is water we don’t have enough water and the food served is not that good.
“we have only been allocated two bags of water for one week in this hot weather and the allowance given is 31,000 naira while the military is 45,000 naira sir.
“So why is there a difference in the money while both of us are working in the same assignment. Before the allowance was N45,000 and was equal to that of the Army but now they have reduced non military to N31,000 and they expect us to pay returns of 5,000 inside the same N31,000” Said the angry operative.
Operatives of operation Hadin Kai are made up mostly of the entire military, Federal Police, immigration, customs, Civil defence, custodial service, vigilante and the civilian jtf.
In spite of all these collaboration among services which includes the state security services sometimes, the war has gone on for almost 17 years with no sign of a true, seize fire, table negotiations or a total end of the hostilities between the country and non state actors.
State Actors Grumble Over Operational Allowances Within the Hadin Kai Theatre.
Grumble within ranks in joint security team in Borno
By: Bodunrin Kayode
There is a quiet grumble within the ranks of the Joint Security team in the Hadin Kai theatre with an allegation that some forward operational bases are paid discriminatory allowances.
Some sources within the non military rankings who spoke with this reporter claim that their military colleagues in some forward operational bases (FOB) are actually paid higher than the rest of them by the pay masters who are supposed to release these funds.
This has actually led to a silent outcry by some of the security personnel within the ranks of the Hadin Kai theatre who have decried what they described as the unnecessary disparity between their operational allowances and that of the military.
“There has been some underground grumbling within the ranks of the uniformed personnel in the Hadin Kai theatre over allowances and I am talking about the para military and the police who are in the team in this very sector one.
” From our investigation, it has never happened before and that makes it strange and we believe it is not known to the theatre commander (TC) who we all know as a just man who wants all of us to be happy.
” And that is why we are passing this injustice through you people because you are equal partners in the battles we are fighting against our common enemy because we believe the wrong will be reversed as soon as he gets to hear.
“At our own FOB for now, I can say the drilling for crude oil has stopped but we are pinning the ground against the criminals. And I must tell you, the main challenges here is water we don’t have enough water and the food served is not that good.
“we have only been allocated two bags of water for one week in this hot weather and the allowance given is 31,000 naira while the military is 45,000 naira sir.
“So why is there a difference in the money while both of us are working in the same assignment. Before the allowance was N45,000 and was equal to that of the Army but now they have reduced non military to N31,000 and they expect us to pay returns of 5,000 inside the same N31,000” Said the angry operative.
Operatives of operation Hadin Kai are made up mostly of the entire military, Federal Police, immigration, customs, Civil defence, custodial service, vigilante and the civilian jtf.
In spite of all these collaboration among services which includes the state security services sometimes, the war has gone on for almost 17 years with no sign of a true, seize fire, table negotiations or a total end of the hostilities between the country and non state actors.
Grumble within ranks in joint security team in Borno
EU Commits €235 Million to Tackle Escalating Humanitarian Crises in West and Central Africa
By: Michael Mike
The European Commission has unveiled a €235 million humanitarian aid package aimed at addressing the deepening crises across West and Central Africa, where conflict, hunger, displacement, and climate shocks continue to devastate millions of lives.
The funding will target the region’s most vulnerable populations, including those affected by armed conflicts, food insecurity, forced displacement, and communities cut off from essential services. A significant portion—€75 million—has been earmarked for the Central Sahel, widely regarded as the epicentre of the region’s instability.
Other allocations include more than €72 million for Chad, €33 million for Nigeria, €22 million for the Central African Republic, €16.6 million for Cameroon, €4.8 million for Mauritania, and over €6 million for coastal countries. An additional €6.4 million will support region-wide humanitarian initiatives.
Announcing the intervention, Hadja Lahbib, European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, described the situation as a convergence of multiple emergencies.
“West and Central Africa is facing a storm of humanitarian crises, driven by conflict, poverty, hunger, instability, and climate shocks,” she said, recalling firsthand encounters with displaced families during a visit to Chad.
According to Lahbib, the aid will provide critical relief, including food, clean water, healthcare, shelter, and access to education for children whose lives have been disrupted by violence and displacement.
The region’s humanitarian situation remains dire, with conflicts in the Central Sahel and the Lake Chad Basin continuing to spill across borders, intensifying instability in coastal nations and triggering widespread displacement. The ongoing crisis in Sudan has further strained resources in eastern Chad, while separate emergencies persist in north-western Nigeria, parts of Cameroon, and the Central African Republic.
The European Union reiterated its commitment to acting as a reliable humanitarian partner, emphasizing that the intervention is designed not only to save lives but also to restore dignity and hope for affected communities.
EU Commits €235 Million to Tackle Escalating Humanitarian Crises in West and Central Africa
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State Actors Grumble Over Operational Allowances Within the Hadin Kai Theatre.
Grumble within ranks in joint security team in Borno
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