Dearest Tope 


The first time I met you was about 10 years ago at Afia’s place in london, I had heard so much about u from Afia , it was also a plus that u loved all things Ghanaian and u were obsessed with waakye and Ghanaian yam. 


During our first meeting, Afia had a bizarre episode of some strange medical mishaps, she had caught a strange eye infection, spasms in her leg and an overdose of pain medication. I thought the whole thing was absolutely hilarious and u kept doting on her saying “kpele” so affectionately. It was my first time hearing the Yoruba endearment which is now my favorite Nigerian word. This was the first in my naija vocabulary lesson that u taught me that day, other words included  kilode, adjebota, oluwa etc. 


Over the years your friendship was effortless and so refreshing, our catchups (though few) were always filled with silly jokes and loads of laughter. 


To know you is to know you were loved by many. You loved ur family and it was clear u were a daddy’s girl. 


You are now with our lord, and that warms my heart. 


With loads of love!! 
Dalila 

P.S. U still owe me that trip to visit me in Angola. No excuses now, u now have Angel wings.