By Ezekiel Ainabe
The passing of Dame Rebecca Aikhomu on the 11th of December 2025 marks the end of an era in my life and in the lives of many who were privileged to know her closely. Though her transition brings deep pain, it is also a solemn privilege to have walked so closely with such an extraordinary woman.
To me, this loss is profoundly personal. I have not merely lost a relative; I have lost a dear sister, a mother, a confidant, a guide, and a steadfast pillar of strength. For over forty years, I shared a close and enduring bond with Dame Rebecca and her family. She embraced me not just as a brother, but as a son. Having lost my biological father in 1988 and my mother in 2002, Dame Rebecca filled that void in my life with uncommon grace, love, and wisdom. From that moment onward, she became my mother in every sense that truly mattered — nurturing, correcting, encouraging, and offering unwavering support through life’s many trials.
As the matriarch of the family of the late Admiral Augustus Aikhomu, Dame Rebecca carried herself with dignity, humility, and quiet strength. During her husband’s distinguished service in the Nigerian Navy and especially during his time as Military Vice President of our great nation, Nigeria, her comportment, decorum, and gentle nature were a source of immense strength and support. She stood solidly behind him, offering the kind of unwavering encouragement that only a woman of deep character and wisdom could give.
Even after the passing of her beloved husband, Dame Rebecca remained a unifying force within the family. She was a woman of peace, uncommon courage, and firm conviction. I watched her selflessly support her children while also serving as a bridge of understanding between them and extended family members. On many occasions, she entrusted me with the responsibility of mediating and resolving sensitive family matters — a role she encouraged with confidence and respect. Her belief in unity, dialogue, and love was unwavering.
Our relationship was mutual and deeply rooted in trust. Just as she leaned on me as a brother, I often confided in her as a son would to his mother. In moments of personal battles and family challenges, Dame Rebecca was my sounding board — calm, wise, and compassionate. Her counsel was always sincere, her interventions thoughtful, and her solutions guided by fairness and love. In my most trying times, especially in recent years, she stood solidly by me and ensured that my family and I navigated every challenge with strength and dignity.
For her motherly counsel and steadfast support, I will forever remain grateful.
In 2023, when tragedy struck my family home through a devastating fire while I was away, Dame Rebecca and her children stood firmly by us. Their support — emotional, moral, and financial — was overwhelming. She took it upon herself to ensure that my family was comforted and restored. She checked on us regularly, encouraged us constantly, and played a significant role in the rebuilding of our residence into what it stands as today. Her daughters, in their compassion and generosity, reflected the values she had so carefully instilled in them.
Dame Rebecca was a devout Anglican Christian — a woman of deep faith, quiet strength, and boundless philanthropy. She lived her beliefs, extending love and generosity without discrimination, and serving God through service to humanity. Her love for God, the Church, and the things of God remained evident until the very end. She once shared with me her prayer that when it was time for her to depart this world, she would not become a burden to anyone, but would remain active and purposeful until her final moment. By God’s grace, that prayer was answered.
Perhaps the most profound moment of our bond came at the twilight of her earthly journey. In her final moments, she asked her children to send for me. When I arrived, I sat close to her, holding her, just as the light gently faded from her eyes. It was a moment of sacred silence — one I will forever hold dear — and one that sealed our bond beyond this life.
Since her passing, I have felt a part of myself dim, as though a vital light has gone out. Yet, in my grief, I remain deeply grateful for the life she lived and the love she gave so freely. Dame Rebecca lived a life of purpose, compassion, and quiet strength. She touched lives, healed hearts, and left footprints of kindness wherever she went.
Mama. Big Sister. Mother in truth — your love will forever live in my heart. Your counsel will continue to guide me. Your legacy will endure through the lives you shaped and the family you held together with love.
May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace, and may God grant us the grace to uphold the values you so beautifully embodied.
Sleep well, soldier of Christ.
Adieu, Mama Rebecca.
* Sir (Chief) Dr. Ezekiel Ainabe, is the Ojomo of Expoma
Leave a Reply