*AND A GOOD MAN GOES HOME
By Dr. Ehiogie West-Idahosa
Not many outside the social, political and business associates of Francis Osazuwa may have known him well in his sojourn on earth.
He was calm, easy going, humble, respectful, witty, compassionate and an extraordinarily talented thinker. A deft political leader and an astute businessman. He was a delight to many of us who knew him.
Throughout his life time, Franco was passionate about fairness, equity and competence. I recall the very exciting contest for the post of Oredo Local Government Council Chairman between Lucky Igbinedion and Isaac Irabor in the 80’s.
Franco, threw his lot behind Irabor. He pumped in his hard earned resources from his international trading outfit, recruited hundreds of foot soldiers and gave the contest a real push.
Although, Lucky Igninedion won the election, yet Franco proved that he was not a political passerby and Irabor himself gave a good account of his artistry, oratory and sagacity. Such was his commitment to every cause he believed in.
He was one of my earliest clients in my practice as a lawyer and remained so till death. As a client he was a locus classicus. He perfected his brief in excess and cheerfully at all times. He meticulously provided necessary information and documents diligently. As for witnesses, he never slacked.
He was a bosom friend of many. One of his inestimable friends, Mr. Allan Omorogbe described Baba Franco as “a defender of the oppressed, loyal and trustworthy.” There is none who has heard of his passage amongst those who came across him that did not have at least one good thing to say about him.Such was his reputation.
Myself and my wife spoke with him on Saturday, May 2, 2020. We talked about politics, law and the Covid-19 lockdown. None of us knew that it was our last conversation on earth. He was a loyal member of APC and operated from ward 2 in Oredo Local Government Area. He contributed immensely to the growth of the Party in that ward to the knowledge of many.
On Tuesday, 5th May, 2020, he passed on and proceeded on the final journey of all mortals, no matter how high or low. He came! He saw! And gave a good account of his journey on earth! We would miss him dearly.
Adieu Franco! Adieu our friend! Adieu my client till we meet to part no more.
May Almighty God have mercy on his soul and grant him a peaceful rest. Amen!
Dr. Ehiogie West-Idahosa
