Today, I received with rude shock, the sad news of the death of Chief Gabriel Y. Aduku, a famous architect, former minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, pan Africanist of extraordinary purity and intergrity and a father figure in Igala Nation.
Rude shock because even though Pa Gabriel Y.Aduku has lived a useful and good life to attain 80 years of age, he was hale and hearthy the last time I saw him before he travelled. I never knew that was the last I will see him. I went to see him to discuss crucial issues of great importance to our nation Nigeria and our people of Igala race. He was full of hopes. Today he is no more.
This great icon and illustrious Igala son of African parentage sent messages to me on the 30th of January 2024. He sent me messages from far away USA. He said: “Calvary greetings from me in Atlanta USA. Please attend positively to the message I’m forwarding to you now though rather sudden.Warmest regards. AdukuGY”
I replied and said :Sir, what do you want me to do. Is there anything else I should do” He replied me and said: Your support to the advertorial publication is being solicited. However, you SAN may wish to sight what exactly is being published about me @ 80.I can forward to you now. Reasons for this publication is not unconnected with the ungoing challenges, Distinguished SAN. Thanks.”
Chief Aduku was at home with all. His sudden departure has further depleted the father figures in our land. The Igala nation has lost a rare gem. Nigeria state has lost a true and patriotic Nigerian of extraordinary integrity. Africans have lost a Pan Africanist. There is no doubt that we will miss him. Rest well Pa Aduku. You have left us to continue the struggles to liberate our land. Although you have gone to be with your maker, your legacy lives. Your good name lives. Good night Chief Gabriel Y.Aduku.
Chief J.S.Okutepa SAN
(Otunba Olumofin)