In evergreen memory of Prince (Prof) Mesembe Ita Edet,
My Dearest Uncle Koko,
As I sit down to pen this memorial letter, memories flood my mind like a torrential downpour, each drop a cherished moment spent in your company. You were not just a professor and scholar; you were a beacon of wisdom, a paragon of intellect, and a guiding light in my life.
You achieved milestones that few could fathom, being the youngest professor of philosophy of your time. Your alma mater, the University of Calabar, boasts of your brilliance, and your students, including myself, were privileged to bask in the radiance of your knowledge.
But beyond academia, you were my mentor in the game of soccer, my companion at the movies, and the big brother I always yearned for during summer vacations. Oh, how I recall our adventures, from tasting palm wine for the first time to joining the esteemed Palm Wine Drinkers Club, where the phrase “You shall walk and never stumble” echoed through our jovial gatherings.
You introduced me to the world of literature, igniting my passion for authors like James Hadley Chase, whose influence permeates my writing to this day. And in the realm of logic and reason, you were a maestro, shaping my mind with the precision of a master craftsman.
As a man of the people, you wore many hats: a politician, a father, a son, a cousin, a mentor. Your impact transcended boundaries, much like the greats of Nigeria — Obafemi Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Wole Soyinka — whose names are etched in the annals of history alongside yours.
In the words of Nietzsche, “Invisible threads are the strongest ties.” Though you may no longer walk among us, your legacy weaves through the fabric of our lives, binding us together in remembrance and gratitude. Like Winston Churchill, you were a titan among men, shaping the course of our collective destiny with your indomitable spirit.
As you reside among the columinous clouds, know that you will never be forgotten. For influential souls like yours, though often overlooked in the grand narratives of history, leave an indelible mark on those they touch. In cultures across the globe, tributes to the departed echo through the ages, honoring the wisdom they imparted and the lives they enriched.
And so, dear uncle, I offer this tribute with a heavy heart yet a grateful spirit. Your teachings, your kindness, and your love will forever dwell within me, guiding me as I navigate the journey of life. Rest in eternal peace, knowing that your legacy will endure for generations to come.
With love and reverence,
Your Nephew
Master Asuquo Levy Eyo Jr
A distinguished scholar, mentor, and sage we’ll never forget.
365 days have passed since you bid us adieu,
Yet your wisdom and love in our hearts forever renew.
Oh, how sudden was your departure, like a dream in the night,
Leaving behind cherished memories and moments so bright.
The Lord giveth and taketh away, His name be praised,
In our sorrow and loss, His comfort we’ve embraced.
Your legacy as a philosopher and guide,
Forever in our hearts, your teachings abide.
To Honorable Justice Ama Edet and all whom you’ve touched,
Your wisdom and kindness, we’ve cherished so much.
As we gather to honor your spirit so dear,
We find solace in knowing you’re always near.
Though you left without farewell, our hearts ache with sorrow,
Yet we find peace in knowing we’ll meet again tomorrow.
Rest in peace, dear Uncle Koko, in eternal bliss,
In the arms of the angels, find eternal peace.
From your nephews and nieces, this prayer we send,
May your soul find rest until we meet at the end.
“With the death of every great man, the world becomes poorer.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
Your memory lives on, forever cherished and dear,
In our hearts, you’ll always be near.
