Tribute to an Uncommon Compatriot
By Paul Mumeh
It is with deep pain and a profound sense of guilt that I write this tribute of a good man, a friend, a course mate, and a compatriot, Nelson Omoruyi.
Not because I could have prevented his transition to the great beyond, but because Nelson passed away a year ago and I only just learned of it through a Facebook post by his daughter marking his death anniversary .That fact alone is both sad and embarrassing.
Nelson was a few years older than me. Even as course mates at Auchi Polytechnic back in the 1980s I called him my elder brother, and as is often the case, the bond between classmates quickly grew into a strong bond of brotherhood and comrades . After our graduation , we all naturally went our separate ways. But fate had different plans for Nelson and me.
Nelson secured a job with the now defunct National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) in Lagos and was later deployed to Benin City as a procurement officer. I got a job with the old Daily Times of Nigeria Plc in Lagos and was also posted to Benin City as a Senior Reporter.
Coincidentally, or perhaps by destiny we ended up living on the same street in Benin; around 3rd East Circular Road, near Immaculate Conception College (ICC).
When we reconnected in Benin, Nelson had just gotten married. I hadn’t. His work schedule usually allowed him to finish earlier than I did, but he’d often stop by my office and wait until I completed my assignments. From there, we’d either go out together or head to his house, where dinner was always waiting. For much of my time in Benin, before I got married, Nelson’s home became my guaranteed source of a warm meal and companionship.
It was Nelson who persistently nudged me toward marriage. He’d tease me, “Paul, I can vouch for you, you’re too responsible to still be single.” I’d laugh it off with a vague “I’m working on it”. We lived a communal life in the truest sense.
Even after I was transferred out of Benin, we remained in touch.
Our class maintains a WhatsApp group, but at some point, Nelson stopped participating. Curiously and regrettably, none of us noticed in time to realize that something might be wrong. Indeed, something was, and we lost him. I carry that guilt heavily.
Nelson was a true gentleman in words and in deeds. His passing has left a void that can never be filled. As a course mate and compatriot, his friendship enriched my life journey. His kindness, intellect, and quiet passion for life were constant sources of inspiration.
I’ll always remember our study sessions, our late-night debates, evening outings and his infectious laughter. The joy and humour we shared will remain evergreen in my memory. His support and encouragement meant a great deal to me, especially in the early days of my marriage.
Nelson’s legacy lives on in the many lives he touched. To me, his death is akin to the loss of a thousand souls in a pogrom. Such was the depth of our bond and friendship wrapped in brotherhood.
Rest well, dear Nelson. May your memory continue to bless your family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing you.
Adieu.
