Like Father-Like Daughter, 8 Years After the Death of Alh. Aliyu Isma'ila Onumoko.
Part 1
By Tayo Onimisi Omodaiye
14th February, 2023 was the 8th year after the death of a humble man, philanthropist and a fearless community leader.
It is a day that we always look forward to. A day to reflect on the life and times of Alh. Aliyu Isma'ila Onumoko of Okengwe-ehi.
Alh. Aliyu Isma'ila Onumoko is not just a name, but more of a name of an icon and a politician who in the time past made a good and progressive name for himself and his family. With the right measure of courage and determination, The Man achieved incredible feats.
He was a teacher of many good things. His method was simple, he taught by example. He was indeed, a great man that was strong in body, in spirit and in commitment.
I absolutely agree with Daniel Wallace,
"When a man's stories are remembered, then he is immortal."
Since the demise of Alh. Aliyu Isma'ila Onumoko, the entire people of Okengwe-ehi have continued to remember and treasure the legacies of the great man who committed his time, energy and money to the service of God and humanity.
It was our wish he stays longer but sadly, he left the world in February, 14th 2015 after a brief illness and returned to his Creator. It came so fast. The people of Okengwe-Ehi were bereft of words, and the anguish and sorrow were too much to bear, however, solace came after reflecting on the Qur'an verse:
"From Allah we came and to Him we shall all return"
We pray fervently Allah (SWT) place him in the highest paradise, ameen.
It is a general rule, one's life will becomes better by making other lives better. It really pays to be good and helpful.
Little wonder why the children he left behind have turned great philanthropists and excelling in their various endeavors.
Alh. Aliyu Isma'ila Onumoko may have died but when you see the children he left behind, you will not need a soothsayer to tell you he lives in them.
One out of his many successful children is Hajia Habibat Onumoko, The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lokoja.
It is indisputable that she is a carbon copy of her father in physical look and in character, known for hardwork, forthrightness and committed to helping the vulnerables and ultimately, contributing to the growth and development of Ebiraland.
Through her foundation, Fair Win Women Advancement Association (FAWWASS), like her father, Hajia Habibat has touched many lives ( of widows, orphans, petty traders etc.) through empowerment programs, skills acquisiton programs and scholarships to school children up to tertiary institution level.
That's not all, in her community and others who approached her for help, she has put smiles on their faces.
And again, One would be correct to say that one of the many traits, Hajia Habibat Onumoko inherited from her father was humility.
Today, the people of Ebiraland has continued to join the family members of Alh. Aliyu Isma'ila Onumoko and Okengwe-Ehi Community to remember a great man who has left indelible footprints in the sand of time and a man whose life is worthy of emulations.
To Hajia Habibat Onumoko, Big Mummy and Queen Mother, you're indeed, a channel of blessing to all who crossed your path. Your love is uncompromising.
In the gallery of great women, you're without doubt, a rare masterpiece. A pragmatic woman full of benevolence.
We pray Allah ( SWT) continue to strengthen you, give you long life and prosperity and protect you and the entire Onumoko's household from evils.
Only God can stop the fire that starts from the river. May your star of excellence continue to shine.
Long Live Onumoko Dynasty!
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