Tribute to my friend, Gboyega John Moses 

Sir: Moze, Johnny, Gbegunze, Gboyega were some of the names by which my friend and brother were fondly called by his friends and associates.

How do I put my emotions of emptiness and the sudden shock of your passing into words? Our paths crossed at the University of Port Harcourt, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State in our first year in 1979/80.

He was such a likeable and pleasant person to be with. Did I say was? I cannot fathom talking about you in the past tense because you will always be present in my memory.

However, it was in his last year and my penultimate year (I did five years, Engineering) that our friendship blossomed and waxed stronger till he answered the call of his creator, Gold Almighty a few weeks ago.

Everybody that knew him will attest to the fact that there was no dull moment with Moze. He was generous and always ready to assist with whatever was needed by anybody.

A trait that I came to realise runs in the family when I and others alike became regular and unannounced visitors or guests at 38, Sabiu Ajose Crescent, Surulere, Lagos, family home. Food and drinks were always made available to his friends whether Moze was at home or not.

Unarguably, Gbenga was a socialite. This must have stemmed from his traversing various town and cities, especially in his formative years. He was always at home and confident among any group of people wherever he found himself.

He was a Lagos boy, a Warri boy, a Port-Harcourt boy, a Freetown boy etc. He was a citizen of the world as can be attested by the tributes that has been pouring in from friends all across the globe. You left me without saying goodbye. Fare thee well my bosom friend and brother. I pray that God Almighty accept you in his bosom while awaiting the resurrection day.

As The Great hymn writer says “it is well with your soul.” Adieu my brother, friend and companion till we meet to part no more.

Caleb Vote Osiobe, a friend/school and roommate.