A brother I know so well

I am not a man of many words, but I know good when I see one. I also know not to keep quiet, when I know the truth and the truth sets you free. This is not an exercise in verbiage but to simply tell people about a simple good man who has great empathy for mankind, for his neighbour and the general welfare of his people. What I know about Oseloke Henry Obaze, fondly known as OHO, is borne out of a personal relationship spanning over two decades. OHO’s character in all this time has been impeccable. OHO was soundly educated here in Nigeria, in the U.S.A., in Austria, in Italy and in Sweden. OHO served in the United Nations with distinction for 21 years. OHO has worked with the Federal Government and as Secretary to the Anambra State Government of Nigeria.

This piece is not about all that, I will not tell you about his many accomplishments around the world and his many awards, that is already out there. I will though, tell you of the simple man I know, who has integrity, who will stand by you when you need a friend and a brother. A man who has good intentions for everyone he knows. Like every human being we all have our faults, I know I do….but the man I know will never fail you, will give his word and keep to it. OHO can say sorry, can mingle with the high and mighty and still seat with the humble to dine and banter, whilst thinking how best to impact that life however small the gesture. I have seen him give a second chance to a staff that would have lost his job on the spot but OHO believes in the inherent good in everyone.

I know, he can take off his suit, roll his sleeves and do the needful at any time. I know that family is important to OHO, all family, extended, extra extended and the community. I know that as a salaried working man OHO has sponsored and is still sponsoring children and student’s education and will never tell you about it. You may hear from the beneficiaries only when you encounter them. He will attend any engagement, wedding, funeral, children’s birthday, child dedication and if he can’t make it will send apologies. I know that OHO is not a bitter man, is not vindictive, OHO is not rude, he is a man of peace. OHO is a man who is on time, to events. He is a man who knows about accountability, OHO is not divisive, he understands good governance, is transparent, he understands that leadership is to serve.

OHO is modest, his life style is simple. I know he is a man who is content and grateful always to God. Beside him is a very good woman too, Ofunne is a hardworking USA board certified pediatrician with over a quarter of a decade of experience. Ofunne wife of OHO is compassionate to the needs of the underprivileged in the society. She is charity personified. A loving wife and mother, together they have a very sound family life, with children who are doing their parents really proud.

On a lighter note, amongst the things that I know OHO likes is groundnuts and he would gladly share with anyone around him. I know that OHO has an excellent practical knowledge of the rule of law and its supremacy. He is a gentleman per excellence, who has had an unblemished career at the world stage. He is an achiever, a great leader both internationally and nationally. He is a writer, a poet, a sports lover, a soccer enthusiast a people person. OHO is a great father, a caring husband, a trusted friend, a kind brother and a good man. In my many discussions with him over the years, he had always known he will bring his wealth of experience to benefit his people, given the opportunity. I know that OHO is passionate about the youths, the aged, about women empowerment, gender and social welfare. OHO is very keen about human and infrastructural development. OHO is selfless, a man with a genuine vision and good intent to serve. OHO is determined to bring succor to the people in areas including but not limited to agriculture, education, trade and commerce, security, infrastructure, employment, investment and savings, industry, health and alternate revenue. OHO is a team player and an experienced team leader.

The Oseloke Henry Obaze I know is a man who believes in God. He is honest, kind, has compassion and a very good sense of humour. OHO has a good pedigree and understands the value of a good name. I know that OHO will definitely add value to any project that he embarks on. OHO’s impact will be positively apparent, it will be transparent and the results will be undoubtedly absolutely obvious.

Omo is a lawyer at Uche Omo and Associates (Barristers and Solicitors).