| By Josephine Akaure. Photo Credit: Godwin Ugbaka
It was a moment of deep reflection, reminiscence and hope as family members, staff and friends gathered at the Babcock Pioneer Church for the commendation service of Late Elder Ebere Onwulata, a dedicated staff of the College of Postgraduate Studies, Babcock University.
In a brief exhortation titled, “It Is Alright” drawn from John 11:1-3, the University Pastor, Dr. Opeyemi Oladosu, reminded the congregation that God is not only on the throne but intimately understands our grief. Citing Christ’s sorrow over the death of His friend Lazarus, Pastor Oladosu noted that death is only a temporary sleep for those in Christ, and that Jesus wept with Mary and Martha because He is not disconnected from our pain.
He described Elder Ebere’s life and his favorite words, “It is alright,” as a testimony of unshakable faith in God and faithfulness in his duties at CPGS. Friends and colleagues paid glowing tributes in honor of Elder Ebere’s life of service. Dr. Femi Adeleye, a colleague at CPGS for 11 years, described him as humble, with a beautiful spirit and a unique way of making people laugh.
“He loved to play, pray and sing. He always thanked God for His word. He believed in seeking counsel from others and was faithful to a fault,” he said.
The Church’s First Elder, Elder John Eleweke, also remembered the deceased as a peaceful man, a devoted member of the Pioneer Youth Church, and faithful in worship, adding, “His demise is a reminder that life is very transient.”
Family members shared memories of him as a “loving and supportive father, faithful husband, and one who was always ready to encourage and mentor others.” His daughter, Eunice, and nephew gave fond recollections, with Eunice concluding the reading of his biography with a moving tribute: “he fought the good fight and completed the race.”
Speaking on behalf of the President/Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Afolarin Ojewole, the Vice President for Financial Administration, Prof. Folorunsho Akande, celebrated Elder Ebere’s diligence in monitoring classes at CPGS, stating, “He was good at what he did.”
Deputy Provost of the College, Pastor (Dr.) Sunday Didam Audu, committed the family, colleagues, the entire Babcock University community, and all who have been affected by Elder Ebere’s passing into God’s hands in prayer, asking for God’s comfort to rest upon every heart.
He said Elder Ebere’s life reminds us that faithfulness in little things leads to God’s commendation, and because Christ lives, we believe “It is alright” — for the grave is not the end.
Until his death, the late Elder Ebere Onwulata was a staff of the CPGS and had served in various other departments including the Security, Student Development and Registry. He had a first degree in Theology and English and a Masters in Human Resources Management from Babcock University. He is survived by his wife, children and other family members.