To Mohammed Fawehinmi

Sir: Mohammed’s late father, Chief Gani Fawehinmi and my late dad, Dr. Olu Onagoruwa were lawyers whose passion for the protection of the human rights of the ordinary Nigerian citizen culminated in their close friendship in the 1970’s. Invariably, we their children, saw each other often on family visits and there-on formed bonds of friendship that has transcended our fathers’ lives. Both Mohammed and I were the first born in both our families and age mates, so an amiable friendship easily blossomed between us.
 
As time would reveal, Mohammed a.k.a. (Mannix/ Niiggggeeeeerrrrrr), had qualities I deeply admired. He was reliable, loyal and trustworthy. Our friendship stood the test of time based on these qualities we had in common. As teenagers, we spent quality time together, catching fun and talking life; in fact, his first serious romantic relationship was with a girl, whom he met through me.
 
Later, we both moved to England in the 1990’s to study. Our friendship grew as we visited each others’ universities countless times back then. In 2002, Manix  was one of my groomsmen at my wedding. We talked about me returning the favour with him at his wedding. His unfortunate accident a year after, devastated me in many ways. Nevertheless, I was grateful to God my friend was still alive.  
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He had such an indomitable spirit. We kept our social life intact. He was ever cheerful and entertaining, attending family events  just like old times. I was always awed by his zest for life. Even a week before his death, my last conversation with him on phone lasted for over two hours, reminiscing about old times and discussing rising political and topical issues. It was not an out of ordinary practice for us. Little did I know that was his goodbye.
 
“Manix, you were too ‘alive’ in spirit, body and soul, for me to imagine you gone. I take solace in the fact that you were a good person with a beautiful heart. Therefore, you must be in a much better place.  My prayer is that God in His infinite mercies comforts and strengthens your mum, siblings and all the loved ones you left behind.”
 
Adieu Manix, you were such a rare and beautiful soul. We particularly pray for his family at this time that the Lord would strengthen and give them the grace and fortitude to bear  this painful and irreplaceable loss.
 
May his kind, caring and cheerful soul rest in perfect peace, Amen.
 
Dapo Onagoruwa and family.
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