TRIBUTE TO MY BROTHER, FRIEND, ALLY, AND ASSOCIATE

It was like I was struck by thunder when I received the news of the untimely demise of Best Anenechukwu Idu. Not in my wildest imagination did I envisage that he will die at this prime age. And that is why I was nonplussed with utmost chagrin when the news of his death broke. Infact, after I heard the calamitous news, I was dazed and shell-shocked; and for the next 72 hours or so, it felt like I was daydreaming. Until I got to see the itinerary of his obsequies before I came out of my reverie and it began to dawn on me that I have lost not only a friend, but one who had made an impression in my life. I have never been so befuddled by the loss of a loved one like the passage of my very good friend who has turned into a brother; who I consider as a strong ally, confidante and associate.

More than a decade ago, when I frolicked in the town of Bukuru in Jos-south Plateau state with Mr. Best and Innocent Orji, it was like Eldorado. Those were the golden days of my life because having just graduated from the university, I found a solid crony and companion in Mr. Best. I remember how we use to discuss the politics of Enugu state. How we criticized Chimaroke Nnamani and the rest of Enugu politicians who held sway then. We had discussed about their limitations, their actions and inactions, and had suggested ways to better the politics of Enugu state when we get to be on the saddle. It is so sad that death had to cut short his ambition.

Mr. Best was a gentleman to the marrow, calm mien, calculated and very intelligent. He is a jolly good fellow who is very accommodating. He is someone everybody would like to be with and spend time with. During his National Youth Service days in Gombe, I craved to be with him, and I remember that I often visited him in Gombe and we had interesting times discussing about governance, politics and the future. I will never forget those good days. Never!

Best, it is heart wrenching that you have to go at this moment when we are putting blocks to our tomorrow’s project. I feel saddened, and it is with heavy heart that I write this. I never envisaged that one day, I shall be typing a dirge for you. But as a believer in the word of God, I take consolation that you lived a fulfilled life. Your stay on earth was worthwhile. You touched our lives with the way you lived yours. Your gentility which I emulate has taken me this far in life. I learned a lot from you, my friend.

As you will be interred tomorrow, I pray for God to console your immediate and extended family, most importantly your wife and kids. I know that no amount of soothing words can actually console them from this loss. But our prayers are with them. To your siblings, I pray for comfort. To us your friends, I pray for the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Until we meet to part no more, brother!

You remain the Best.

Rest in peace, Associate!

DSP Ugwuoke Kelvin Abuchi

Your brother, friend, ally and associate