By Osita Aniemeka
I was three years old when he earned his distinguished doctorate from the University of London and my mother, Jessie, his only sister, celebrated him in absentia, for the entire year. By the time he settled down to teach at the University College, Ibadan in the early 1960s, we were ready to travel to the city of rust and gold every holiday because Jessie and ‘Isoo’ as she called him, were inseparable siblings.
Today, I honor and celebrate the remarkable life of Professor Chieka Christopher Ifemesia, our dedicated professor of history, our precious dad, our cherished mentor, our loving patriarch, and the beacon of wisdom for all who were fortunate enough to know him – students, colleagues, benefactors, and even his publics from the global community. At the venerable age of 99, he leaves behind a legacy that spans nearly a century of profound knowledge, unwavering passion, and boundless love.
Uncle Isoo was more than just a scholar; he was a living library, a keeper of time, and a storyteller whose words transported us to eras long past and brought us back to present, preparing for the future. He dedicated his life to uncovering the truths of history, ensuring that the lessons of the past were not forgotten but rather cherished and learned from. His classroom was not confined to the four walls of a lecture hall; it extended to the conversations he shared, the debates he sparked, and the wisdom he imparted in everyday exchanges.
His impact on the field of history is immeasurable, with numerous publications, lectures, and conferences that have left an indelible mark on both the academia and the broader community. He inspired countless students, many of whom have gone on to become historians, educators, professors and lifelong learners themselves.
Beyond his professional achievements, Uncle Isoo was a man of great appeal, kindness, and humility. He was a devoted husband, father, and uncle, who cherished his family dearly. His home was a place of warmth, filled with books, laughter, and the scent of his warm welcome, always. He had a way of making everyone feel valued, always ready to lend an ear and share a thoughtful word of advice.
As we bid farewell to my uncle of uncles, I elect not to remember him with sorrow but with gratitude, thankfulness and appreciation for the gift of his presence in our lives. I celebrate the rich tapestry of experiences, knowledge, and love that he wove into the fabric of our world. Though he may no longer be with us in body, his spirit, his teachings, and his love will continue to guide and inspire us.
May we carry forward his passion for knowledge, his dedication to education, and his boundless love for humanity. Meeting Maya Angelou was one of my greatest moments in life but it was her words: “I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people.” that resonates beyond brilliance for me because she was talking about my uncle, Professor Chieka Christopher IFEMESIA.
Rest in peace, UGODIADI! Ogbuachi, Nnaoche!
Osita Aniemeka, PhD, FMSc
(Jackson, Grad School ’89)
Sub Saharan Open University
