I lost a friend. Emuchay’s family loss, the pain of Nigeria, Abia State , Ukwaland, Egbu family, Azumini ancient Kingdom where I sit pretty in the traditional Council as Ebubedike of Azumini ancient Kingdom.
The Emuchay family has national recognition. Dick Emuchay most recent patriarch was an icon. A good father lives inheritance for children, Dr Chika Emuchay is not just a medical Doctor, he is of the revolutionary bent, many his sound expertise available to the proletariat free most times.
He has been severally Commissioner for Health. Ambassador Okey Emuchay just retired as Consul General of Nigeria in South Africa. There is Ngo Dennar , incharge of Cottage hospital, giving succour to rural population, then Nnenna, American based medical Doctor and Azu Emuchay who just died climbed to the pinnacle in finance Department of Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation(NNPC) from where he just retired .
First two in this story I knew but Azu I didn’t know until last December when a casual journey landed me in modest beautiful country home. I went there with my mother’s last born Chile who came for Christmas holidays in the village from Lagos and my political supporter.
Few minutes we spent we bemoaned underdevelopment in Ukwa land, elite individualism and resolved we should pull resources together to push for change. He looked radiant and forward looking. I went home very glad I have found new friend and brother. See how it has turned out.
Hmmmm, I’m hit by his sudden demise to the point I can’t contribute to eulogies about him. Emuchay family means a lot to humanity. They need our prayers and goodwill. Jehovah that I worship strengthen them this hour and beyond. Give Azu rest and those he left behind fortitude to to stay strong and enter a new era of bliss n Jesus Christ mighty name Amen and Amen. Adieu my Brother.
Ralph Egbu is a former commissioner and secretary to government of Abia state
