An Okara mix-up that’s too cruel to be true

Now, this unfortunate mix-up is a strange occurrence in my entire writing career, but it was all due to a passionate feeling and the nudge to pay a debt (not personal) of honour to the man, using the space that was available to me. From what I have written, my feelings about the man can […]

Now, this unfortunate mix-up is a strange occurrence in my entire writing career, but it was all due to a passionate feeling and the nudge to pay a debt (not personal) of honour to the man, using the space that was available to me. From what I have written, my feelings about the man can only be positive. I certainly do not wish him dead as there may yet emerge his masterpiece, judging from the evidence of his continued creativity and later-life acknowledgments through laurels and decorations. It is, on the other hand, satisfying that he is alive to read my feelings and thoughts about him. I certainly wish him a springly winter and happier days ahead. I, however, regret the excitement this error may have caused to his great self, his family, and the fine Weekly Trust newspaper.

I have taken practical steps at damage control, reaching his family members. I spoke with his son, Dr. Ebi Okara, in the United States, who was pleasantly responsive and warm. He in fact, within a short time, arranged for me to speak with Pa Okara. He was kind enough to leave his work and rushed back to his home to enable me speak with his Dad. My conversation with Okara was very cordial and assuring. As I began to apologize to him for the embarrassment my article may have caused, he quickly assured me that he has not taken it to heart at all. Instead, he expressed appreciation to me for the content of my tribute: “All kinds of things get written about one, but I enjoyed what you wrote.”  He agreed with me that we have a lot more from his creative fount: “Oh, yes, I believe there is still of creativity in me. I am still very productive.”  It was a very rewarding conversation which ended with my warm wishes for happier days ahead for him, especially when he just celebrated his ninetieth year on earth.