By: Amb. Anthony Akalugo
TRUE MEANING OF GREATNESS RESIDES IN DEEDS NOT CLAIMS – ISHIMMIRI WAS A GREAT MAN
Life is but a stage where people choose what legacy to leave behind, through their daily strides. How you will be remembered is determined by how you take your daily activities and attend to challenges..while setting priorities.
Chief Christopher Chukwuemeka Ohuruzo rose up to step into the shoes of his late father at a young age. He did not shiver but was courageous and took the bold step of life, when his father joined his ancestors. He didn’t attempt to rely on handouts that could come from relatives and uncles but went out to the northern region to search for the golden fleece.
A man who dared the uncertainties of life, the oddities of existence, triumphed over vicissitudes of life, never got disillusioned but was joyful as he consistently wrote a new chapter of accomplishment, changing the age-long narrative of his dynasty.
He took the title Ishimmiri meaning the river source and that he was truly. He was many things to many people. He was an iroko, a man under whose influence his people would be protected. He was a giver, a man whose wealth was immeasurable and would go on to dip his hands to alleviate the worries of the people. He never would request for appreciation and would keep giving without limit. He was a true benefactor to the church and his people.
A man who would associate with the high and mighty and still be down to earth to relate with all. He built empire of opulence but was as simple and ordinary as any man around him.
Ishimmiri, the man who consistently used his resources to support what he felt was for public good and never intimidated people nor make unnecessary demands of people to recognise his person. His deeds speak loud and even louder in death.
Committing his resources to support development of Communities, a champion of progressive ideals, being benefactor of churches, resisting divisive tendencies and striving always to be a unifying force, being a man whose word was his bond, building church and donating to his Community, contributing significantly to other church projects without announcing same for recognition, setting up young men in business to engage in productive ventures, spending to fund political projects and asking for nothing in return and many more, are his legacies.
The man Ishimmiri was not too lettered but amazingly intelligent and goal-oriented. His exposure in international business where he built business empire and a major player in Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) was a man of indescribable capacity, and they confer indescribable exposure.
When he survived plane crash early in life, it was evident that God has a purpose for keeping him alive. He also survived gun shot from assailants and at this age of 60 years, God called him home after bout of sickness.
Chief Christopher Chukwuemeka Ohuruzo, Ishimmiri Amucha, the gentle general and the roaring kingmaker and jolly good fellow, your exit has left a big void difficult to fill.
The greatest legacy you kept is a blend of humility within the height of opulence. You have taught humanity a new chapter and new thinking for greatness. Rest in peace, great man.
© Amb. Anthony Akalugo
Leadership Sustainability Coach
Acdore Media, 2024
