Daddy was one of a kind. He was a pillar of strength, a beacon of wisdom and very accommodating. He would affectionately hail me “The Gee”, then he would respond to my greetings with “Mavo? Eve”, meaning “how are you” in Isoko. Lately, we would gist about the Warri days. He had a rich bank of anecdotes on those experiences and he had a great sense of humour. He showed me love from the very beginning of my relationship with Nuru.

He valued the preservation of culture and always spoke the Yoruba language to the children. Ayo always practiced new words in readiness whenever “Sagamu grandpa” was visiting. Daddy balanced discipline with compassion. He always asked about the children’s academic progress.

Dear Daddy, we will continue to uphold your legacy. You touched many lives. We will cherish your legacy forever. Thank you for raising an amazing gentleman that I’m blessed to call my husband. Sun re o, Daddy!

GLADYS SHOTUBO

WE MISS YOU!

When I first met my future father-in-law, I admit I was a little nervous. Meeting the man who raised my wife was no small thing! But my nerves quickly faded. From the moment he welcomed me, he treated me not just as an in-law, but as his own son. That warmth and unconditional acceptance was one of his greatest gifts.

We miss you Daddy, rest in peace!

I fondly call him Daddy, because from the very first day I got married into the family, he never treated me as a daughter-in-law but as his very own daughter. He even gave me a special nickname – Yewande Baby – a name that always warmed my heart each time he called it. His voice carried excitement and love whenever he said it, and it always made our conversations extra special.

Daddy loved my husband deeply, and he extended that same love to me and the children. Whenever we visited, it was always a joyful time. He was full of life, and we would gist endlessly – about Sagamu, about Nigeria, and sometimes about those gbeborun stories that always left us laughing. Those moments will forever remain precious in my heart.

Daddy, you will be greatly missed – your warmth, your laughter, your wisdom, and the love you poured into everyone around you.

May the Almighty God grant you eternal rest.

May He forgive all your shortcomings, accept your good deeds, and grant you Aljannah Firdaus.

And may He comfort the entire family you have left behind, giving us strength to carry on your legacy of love, kindness, and unity.

Rest well, Daddy.