Torrents of tributes, encomiums for Atomode, late Blueprint staff

It was a day of tributes and encomium on Thursday for the late Blueprint staff, Sunday Edward Atomode, during a wake-keep cum service of song at his Dutse Alhaji residence in Abuja.

Atomode who passed on at 47, was involved in a motor-accident alongside others on Sunday along Lokoja-Abuja road while returning from a trip to Ondo State.

Taking their sermons from the bible, Pastor Isaac Oke and Pastor Isaac Afolabi admonished family and friends of the deceased not to mourn his departure, saying he merely went to rest and will rise again with Christ Jesus.

According to them, all men born unto this earth will one day return to the creator to give account of their deed, they therefore implore the congregation to embrace Christ-like character in order to have eternal life.

While eulogising the deceased earlier, the publisher of Blueprint Newspapers, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, who came in company of the Chairman Editorial Board, Hajia Zainab Okino, described the deceased departure as a personal loss to him and the company, saying his friendship, loyalty and dedication would be sorely missed.

He said, “His death was broken at a time I was trying to break my fasting and it was so shocking. He was my confidant and custodian of my official life. Sunday was very loyal and dedicated to a fault.

“He was well known by my family and associate. His death has obviously taken away an archive of my official life because he was everything to me,” Idris said.

Not done, in an emotional laden voice, he added: “Did you know that it was Sunday that went to prepare my travelling document for me? I never could imagine that would be his last assignment for me. Now he is no more.” He added.

Idris thereafter prayed for the repose of the deceased, asking the family to take solace in the fact that he lived a fulfilled life.

He then promised to continue paying the deceased salary for the family upkeep, a gesture that attracted emotion and praises from people around.

Also in a brief tribute, the Chief Operating officer of the company, Alhaji Salisu Umar, described the late Sunday as a brother, friend and a team player whose contribution to the company’s growth remained immeasurable.

There were representatives from his family, community, church and office who all spoke glowingly about their departed brother.

His remain according to the family will leave Lokoja tomorrow (Friday) for Ekirrin-Ade his hometown in Kogi state, for final interment.

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