"Obhokhan kha-kpo-obo-nose, okhile Onogie le-ebale." (Ebhokhimin dialect is very difficult to write. Please, correct me if I am wrong.)
Translation in English-language:
"If a child washes his hands well, he could eat with the Kings (Onogie/Oba)."
Mr. Roland Imhanzenobe, aka Abulawayo, was fond of repeating that statement in Esan dialect each time I was on a social outing with him, when I was a student at the Nigerian Law School in Lagos, Nigeria.
As always, on a Friday or Saturday evening, he would pick me up and drive me around town in the company of one of his guys to some of the exotic places in Lagos where you could find the finest ISIEWU and chilled Odekus to chill your nerves.
He would always warn me upfront. "I know it is tough out there at the Law School, but right now, you're with me, safe. So, relax and enjoy yourself." The first thing he does when any of his friends are around is to introduce me and praise me to the high heavens. So, respect assured, and confidence boosted. It was awesome.
And I enjoyed every bit of the moment with him for obvious reasons. After five days of intense lectures and massive note-taking, you just want to get off the Island to some unusual places to unwind and feel the Lagos vibes unhinged. Besides, the aura he exudes is real and overwhelming.
I am glad to reminisce aloud about the good old days with the Big Guy, who took me for not just a little brother, but a friend.
Owanlen, I did not forget. And I celebrate you with a clear conscience now that both of us are still alive to read this. Happy Living, once again, to a good friend.
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