15/03/2024
THE LIFE OF BABA SIMON DONDO ACHIE
THE BEGINNING
Baba Simon Dondo Achie was born around 1935 into the household of Achie Kigh Abur in Tse-Kigh, Mbaagena, Mbaatuul, Mbakuha, Mbagwa in Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State. His mother, Mbaibon Achie, was the daughter of Ginde Mkem of Mbaigyu, Ipav, in Gboko Local Government Area. Baba Achie was the third of three children, his elder sisters being Nguede (deceased) and Tinga (deceased).
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
As a young boy, Dondo spent his formative years among his mother's kin in Mbaigyu, immersed in the rich traditions of the Tiv people, engaging in agricultural work and tending to cattle. However, following his father's demise in 1953, Dondo's uncle, Asobo Kigh Abur, brought him back to live with his paternal relatives in Ameladu, as per his mother Mbaibon's wishes. It was during this period that Dondo commenced his formal education, enrolling at Roman Catholic Mission (R.C.M.) Primary School Bua, subsequently moving to R.C.M. Sokpo, and eventually completing his primary education at R.C.M. Abwa in Mbagen in 1961. His educational journey continued at St. Augustine's Teachers’ College, Lafia, where he earned his Grade II Teachers’ Certificate in 1966. Later, in 1972, he pursued a Diploma in Adult Education and Community Development at the University of Ibadan, graduating in 1974.
WORK LIFE
Following the completion of his Grade II Teachers’ education, Baba Achie embarked on a career in education, initially employed by the Native Authority in Primary Education. He commenced his teaching tenure at St. Francis Primary School, Agidi, in 1967, later transferring to L.G.E.A. Primary School, Ande, in Mbayion until 1972 when he went to Ibadan to pursue further studies. Upon returning from Ibadan, he joined the Adult Education Service of the Benue-Plateau State Ministry of Education, where he served diligently across various locations until his retirement as Principal Master I with the Agency for Adult and Non-Formal Education, Makurdi, Benue State in December 1998.
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY
During his tenure at St. Francis Primary School, Agidi, Baba Achie met his beloved wife, Mama Esther Mnguenyi, daughter of Baaki Shawa of Dur in Mbazaka, Mbatiav of Gboko Local Government Area. Their union was blessed with eight children.
1. Dr. Basil Bemgba Achie
2. Mr. David Dzandzan Achie
3. Mrs. Agnes Ngunan Hanmaikyur
4. Ms. Catherine Vadoo Achie (deceased)
5. Mrs. Bridget Aver Josiah
6. Mrs. Regina Awase Nege
7. Ms. Margaret Mngohol Achie
8. Ms. Rosemary Hembafan Achie (deceased)
In addition to his children, Baba Achie was blessed with several grandchildren and took pride in his role as a grandfather, nurturing the following grandchildren:
1. Leo Hanmaikyur
2. Theresa Hanmaikyur
3. Tiza Hanmaikyur
4. Awase Hanmaikyur
5. Lois Wandoo Achie
6. Theresa Vadoo Achie
7. Solomon Aondona Achie
8. Michelle Member Achie
9. Uzoma Benedict Josiah
10. Chidiebere Josiah (deceased)
11. Ebubechukwu Josiah
12. Ignatius Bughshima Nege
13. Michael Kenter Nege
14. Joan Se’ember Nege
CHRISTIAN LIFE:
Baba Achie embraced his Catholic faith wholeheartedly, receiving baptism in 1956 and subsequently receiving confirmation. He exchanged vows with Mama Esther Mnguenyi in the Church, and together they raised their children in the Catholic faith, presenting each for infant baptism. Baba Achie was deeply devoted to his religious practices, regularly praying the Holy Rosary and chaplet of Divine Mercy. He actively participated in various church societies, including the Holy Family Society, St. Joseph Society, Catholic Men Organization (CMO), and the Tiv Catholic Community.
ILLNESS AND DEATH
Baba Achie enjoyed good health most of his life. He rarely had any health challenges until August 2018, when he was injured in an accident. It was while he was being treated for this injury that he was found to have high blood pressure, a condition he managed until the very end.
As God blessed him with length of days re he became the oldest member of the Tse-Kigh Abur kindred in 2016 and was recognized as the father (orya) of the kindred. He was steadfast in this role, promoting peace and unity within the family. He was also the Patron of the Mbakuha Development Association in Makurdi, where he lived.
Sadly, Baba Achie took ill and subsequently departed this world peacefully at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Apir, Benue State on Monday, 26th February, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. The Merciful Lord Jesus, in whom Baba Achie had complete trust, called him to glory a few minutes after 3:00 P.M., the Hour of Mercy. His passing marked the end of a life richly lived, leaving behind a legacy of faith, dedication and familial love.
May the soul of Late Baba Simon Dondo Achie and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.
APPRECIATION
We extend our profound appreciation to our dear friends and all who stood with us during this difficult time. Your comforting words, unwavering support, and acts of kindness were a true source of strength as we bid farewell to Baba Simon Dondo Achie. Your presence meant the world to us.
We are deeply grateful for your heartfelt condolences and generous contributions. Your support eased our burden and reminded us that we are not alone in our grief.
Now that Baba has been laid to rest, we pray for your safe journey back home, carrying with you the cherished memories of Baba Achie and our family's gratitude. May you be blessed with peace and comfort now and always through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
With sincere appreciation,
THE ACHIE FAMILY
Our Tributes
Anselm Nege
Baba, you left us at a time when we needed you most, but we are consoled that you are with God in heaven because you were a good man and you trusted completely in God’s mercy. May your soul rest in peace. Amen.
Se’ember Nege
Dear Baba, you were one of the most precious persons in my life, not only a grandfather but a friend. I felt torn into pieces the morning I learnt of your death, yet being a devout Christian, I have confidence that your soul is resting with God in eternal life. Rest in peace Baba.
Kenter Nege
Dear Granddad, I was so sad when I heard the news of your death. Anytime I see your face, I remember what a loving grandfather you were. When you fell sick, I prayed for you. Now that you are gone, I pray that you intercede with God on our behalf. Rest in peace till we meet in Heaven.
Bughshima Nege
Dear Baba, I loved you so much and the news of your death touched me deeply. I am however grateful that you died as a devout Catholic, receiving Holy Communion on your death bed. I am sure that I have gained an angel in heaven and I ask you to intercede for us till we meet again in eternity. Rest in Peace Baba.
Regina Achie Nege
Dear Baba, I wish fervently that your passing were a dream from which I would wake tomorrow. The vacuum you have left is really large and I miss you dearly, but I find solace in the knowledge that for years, you had made peace with the knowledge that this world is not our home, and that God sent his ministers to prepare you adequately for the everlasting journey. Rest in soft peace Baba, till we meet to part no more Baba.
