Tribute to Ochendo Abatete from Nneka Okorie

To my uncle of blessed memory, your death came as a huge blow to me. You were a great pillar to the family. You were our pride. I looked up to you in many ways and marveled at your quiet strength, dedication, generosity, and sense of duty. You always seemed larger than life but your humanity was outstanding. Your influence opened doors for many. Our brief conversations were always inspiring. You would ask my wellbeing, my family, and academics. This spurred my determination to succeed. The job I had at Fidelity Bank was activated by you calling the then MD of Fidelity Bank, whom you had a cordial relationship with. I remember your words, “my niece is very smart, she has a 2:1, give her a job at your bank”. A week later, after scaling through the tests and interviews successfully, I resumed at a prestigious department in the bank. You embodied excellence and kindness, a Roman Catholic to the core. Thank you for everything. Rest in peace,uncle. You will never be forgotten. Your niece, Nneka Okorie (nee Oranika)