Renowned Lagos-based writer and women and children’s rights advocate, Betty Abah, has penned a deeply moving tribute to her late uncle, Baba Ali, describing his passing as the end of an era and the loss of a family patriarch whose legacy will not be forgotten. In the heartfelt piece, Abah reflects on cherished childhood memories, family bonds, and the enduring impact Baba Ali had on those around him. As long as I can remember, Baba Ali remained my mum’s unofficial twin brother. They bore a striking resemblance. He was a constant visitor to Mama—both at home and in her shop. They never argued; they always chatted sweetly. Moreover, Christmases—the highest points of our childhood—were never complete without visits to our number one spot: Baba Ali’s home in Otukpo, where we received all the goodies—special food and money. He was a jolly good fellow, a man with a large heart. Yesterday, March 12, that heart stopped beating. He joined the ancestors. More significantly, we lost t...
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