Tribute
By Chukwudi George Ozalla
The passing of Late Dr. (Sir) Paddy Nkemdi Njoku, former Chairman of the National Examinations Council (NECO), is a painful loss not only to his family and the Catholic faithful, but also to all who had the privilege of knowing a man of uncommon intellect, refinement and character.
Dr. Njoku was an accomplished scholar, a gifted orator, an astute administrator, an inspiring teacher, a distinguished elder statesman, a patriotic citizen, an exceptional master of ceremonies, a respected historian and a gentleman in every sense of the word. He was a passionate promoter of culture who believed that a people’s history and heritage were essential to their identity. He spoke French fluently, effortlessly switching between English, French and Latin whenever the occasion demanded. Yet, despite his immense learning, he never sought to intimidate anyone. He always took time to explain even the most complex ideas in language everyone could understand.
Aside from my other encounters with him, one in particular remains firmly etched in my memory.
I had gone to his office for what I thought would be a brief interview and discussion on national issues, particularly politics. When the session ended, little did I know that I was about to receive one of the most enriching lectures of my life.
For well over two hours, Dr. Njoku held me spellbound. I scarcely interrupted him because every sentence carried a lesson. He spoke on governance, leadership, philosophy, history, politics, culture and the future of Nigeria with remarkable clarity. Occasionally, he would introduce a Latin phrase, pronounce it with ease and then patiently explain its meaning and relevance. That was the teacher in him. Knowledge, to him, was meant to be shared, not displayed.
One aspect of that conversation has stayed with me over the years.
As he narrated the events that led to the French Revolution, he paused, looked at me and smiled.
“Ozalla, when a real revolution begins, many innocent people become victims. Your skin is glowing and you look fresh. They may mistake you for one of those in power, enjoying the nation’s wealth. By then, nobody will have the patience to ask questions. People who have become frustrated simply react.”
It was a frightening picture that he painted as he dug deeper into the different layers that could trigger such an uncontrollable outburst.
We both laughed, but I immediately understood the depth of what he was saying. It was not merely a history lesson. It was a warning about what happens when injustice, anger, bad governance, corruption, excruciating pain and frustration are allowed to boil over. Innocent people often suffer alongside those who may have caused the problems because, in moments of chaos, reason gives way to emotion.
That conversation left me with so much to think about. Even after leaving his office, I kept reflecting on everything he had shared. I came away with a deeper understanding of history, politics and the society we live in.
Before I departed, Dr. Njoku proudly showed me around his impeccably organised office. I glanced through his rich library. Every photograph on the wall represented a chapter of his remarkable journey. He stopped before one particular picture and asked whether I could identify the little boy in it. I looked closely but could not.
Seeing that I was lost in thought, he smiled and told me it was a young Emeka Ihedioha. Dr. Njoku married Emeka’s sister, and as a young boy, Emeka lived with them. Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha later became Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and subsequently Governor of Imo State. It was another fascinating story from a man whose life touched so many people who later rose to national prominence.
There was something special about Dr. Njoku. He had a wonderful sense of humour. He loved proverbs and wise sayings and knew exactly when to use them, whether as a master of ceremonies or during informal meetings with others. He could make you laugh one moment and leave you in deep reflection the next. His wealth of knowledge was extraordinary, but what set him apart was his simplicity and willingness to share that knowledge generously.
He was also a man of elegance. He dressed impeccably and carried himself with quiet confidence. His appearance reflected the discipline and order that defined his life. Combined with his love for culture and history, he represented the finest qualities of the old-school gentleman.
Yesterday’s Requiem Mass, held in his honour at the Church of the Assumption, Asokoro District, Abuja, his beloved parish where he worshipped faithfully as a devout Catholic, was a fitting celebration of a life devoted to God, scholarship, culture and service to humanity.
On Thursday, 13 August 2026, family, friends, associates and admirers will gather in Aboh Mbaise, Imo State, to commit his body to Mother Earth. They will mourn a father, mentor and great leader. Nigeria will mourn an intellectual giant and patriot. Those of us who were privileged to sit with him, learn from him and benefit from his wisdom will mourn a teacher whose classroom had no walls and whose broad smile and laughter were infectious.
The English philosopher, Francis Bacon, once wrote, “Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested.” Dr. (Sir) Paddy Nkemdi Njoku, PKN (Ichie Omenuko), was one of those rare books. Every conversation with him left one with lessons to ponder long after he had finished speaking.
Your golden voice may be silent, Ichie Omenuko Aku, but your lessons will continue to echo in the hearts of those privileged to have learned from you. Thank you for enriching my knowledge.
Adieu, Ichie Omenuko Aku.
Adieu, PKN.
Ozalla is the Publisher/Editor-in-Chief, NEWSCOUNT.
