Ng, as I always called you. We first met as primary school classmates. Then years after University, when we had both become mothers, you reached out and we became friends again.
You were such a rare gem. Carrying everyone's burden with so much equanimity. You hear someone is sick and it becomes your pet project until he or she gets better. You rode with me through my fibroid journey, you were always on the phone making sure I was okay when I took ill during the COVID pandemic. From faraway UK it was almost as though you were living with me here in Nigeria, with the way you checked up on me each day, calling everyone you could to make sure I got the necessary help and got better....
Ng, I cry as I write this.
I still can't believe I am writing a tribute to you, ever bubbly you!
Even on your last birthday you sounded so bubbly... Who could have thought we'd lose you days later.
I believe the Unquestionable God knows best why He chose to take you away from us so soon.
You loved your son Yuky so much and I believe that now that you have gained celestial wings, you shall watch over him even more.
We love you Ng. Rest in power, my dear friend turned sister. YOU SHALL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
Grace Austina Okpo
14th December 2024