Tribute to My Mother – Mrs. Otiti
One thing I never quite understood when I was younger was this: anytime there wasn’t enough food to go around, Mama would always say, “I’m not hungry. Make una chop first!”
And of course, we believed her.
Years later, I came to understand that what I thought was a simple statement was actually sacrifice speaking louder than satisfaction.
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I remember one particular evening when we were at home with just half a cup of garri. Mama shared it among everyone so that we could have something to eat. But when I asked her, she smiled and said, “I have eaten before you guys woke up.”
What a sacrifice, Mom!
I knew it was a big lie. Deep down, I knew Mama had never eaten. But what could I do? Mama always wanted us to be well fed, even when it meant going without food herself.
That was the kind of mother you were. You gave without counting the cost. You loved without asking for anything in return. You put our needs before your own, and somehow, you always found a way to make sure we were okay.
Mom, how do I ever repay you for this kind of love? How do I repay all the sacrifices you made, the hunger you endured, the prayers you prayed, and the countless times you put us first?
I may never be able to repay you, but I will carry your love with me for the rest of my life. I will remember your sacrifices. I will remember your smile. I will remember “Make una chop first!” And I will forever be grateful that I was blessed to call you Mama.
Mom, I love you. I loved you in life, I love you in death, and I will continue to love you for as long as I live.
Rest peacefully, Mama.
Your love will live forever in us. ❤️🕊️
DemocracyNewslineNewspaper, September 8, 2026
