Ben and Ben alone gave me the moniker "Pam Pam," and would chant it as many times as he saw me at our many, many "family" gatherings. 

Sun re o, Ben

Sun re l'abe aabo Oluwa wa.

L'ayo l'ao pade l'ojo ajinde.

Ire ni o! Amin!

"PamPam."

A TRIBUTE TO Dr. Ben Ikpeme Ebong

It is with heavy heart that I write this tribute to honor the life and legacy of a truly remarkable man, Dr. Ben Ikpeme Ebong. It is impossible to fully capture the essence of who he was in words alone, for he was so much more than the sum of his titles or accomplishments. To me, he was not just a mentor, a brother, or a guide — he was larger than life, a constant presence of wisdom, compassion, and strength.

I had the privilege of growing up alongside Dr. Ben, during the Biafran civil war, and I can say with absolute certainty that my life was deeply shaped by his kindness, his guidance, and the lessons he imparted in me. Our bond began long before the world outside had begun to take shape, and our paths would intertwine through trials and triumphs, through war and peace, through struggles and joy.

During the darkest of times, when the war threatened to tear everything apart, Dr. Ben was a beacon of light. I lived with him during those difficult days in Ugwata, Nigeria, and I witnessed firsthand how he was a pillar of support, not just for me, but to everyone around him. He embodied resilience, and though the world seemed chaotic and uncertain, his steady presence was a reminder that there was always hope, even in the most trying moments.

When the war finally ended, Dr. Ben led us to a new chapter, one that promised opportunity and healing. He made the bold choice to relocate to Aba, and I, as his brother and companion, followed him. While we live in Aba, I watch him play for the Lever Brothers Company, in Aba and was known as the Man-Mountain. His rugged defense for his team was unmatched. His vision for the future was inspiring, and in his pursuit of progress, he never lost sight of the importance of family, community, and compassion. He had an unwavering belief in the potential of people, and he worked tirelessly to uplift those around him, whether by offering guidance, encouragement, or simply his friendship.

Dr. Ben’s kindness was his signature. It was in the way he cared for everyone who crossed his path, always giving selflessly of his time and energy. He had a way of making you feel seen, heard, and valued, regardless of your status or background. He never sought recognition for the countless lives he touched, but I am certain that each person who knew him felt the depth of his compassion.

As I reflect on our time together, I am filled with gratitude. I am grateful for his guidance, his wisdom, and the way he always helped me find my way when I was lost. I am grateful for his love, which was as fierce as it was gentle. I am grateful for his friendship, which will live on in my heart forever.

As we say goodbye, we take solace in knowing that his spirit will always live on through his children and on all of us — through the lessons he taught us, the values he instilled in us, and the love he shared. Though he is no longer physically with us, his presence will always remain in our hearts.

Rest in peace, Dr. Ben Ikpeme Ebong. You were loved, and you will be missed more than words can express.

May the Almighty God grant his gentle soul an everlasting peace, Amen.

Innosaint Chinweze

(Brother-in-Law)

Dr. Ikpeme Ben Ebong

February 19, 1950, to February 1, 2025

A Brief Tribute from Macaulay Azuogu

What sadness that engulfed me when I heard about the passing of my dear friend, Dr. Ikpeme Ben “Man Mountain” Ebong! I was extremely distraught and unable to think straight for a while. Although I knew he was lately ailing; for some reason, I failed to accept his sudden departure. My main consolation is anchored in my faith which assures me that my friend has only been called home to rest by his Maker. While we no longer have the opportunity to interact with Ben here on earth; as sad as we may now feel about his departure; it is comforting to know that he lived a full, adventurous and fulfilled life. He is now at rest, away from sickness, cares and worries of this life. He is no longer in pain.

Ben and I met in Omaha, Nebraska, USA. No sooner had we met, then I realized that he was the prominent “Man Mountain” of Aba Giant Killers – a professional soccer club in Nigeria. Our families met, and our circles of friends grew in Nebraska and other parts of the USA. We quickly became friends. Our friendship was like no other. We enjoyed each other’s company. In those days, Sister Regina and Ben’s home was warm and inviting. They would always offer anyone (especially me) delicious food to eat. We organized and attended family parties and enjoyed life to the fullest. Ben was fun to be around. He would fondly call me “Mac-Mac” and I would reciprocate “Ben-Ben”. We played soccer together. I marveled at how skilled an athlete he was – in soccer, table tennis, and track and field. The man, Ben Ikpeme was endowed by God with many talents. Our friendship lasted until his passing.

And so, to the family - beautiful and brilliant Regina and Nne; strong, tall and handsome Ben, Victor and Francis and their beautiful spouses; the lovely grandchildren – a lot of them; the relatives and circles of friends left behind by our beloved Ikpeme Ben, please accept our heart-felt sympathy and condolence. Our prayers are with you. May God wrap His loving arms around you; comfort you, abundantly bless and enrich you at this time of bereavement and always. May He fill your heart with Love, Joy and Inner Peace.

To my dear friend, Ben, who has gone before us; you will always remain the irreplaceable shining light who enriched our lives throughout the wonderful years we shared with you. You will forever remain the gifted, competitive and protective giant in our hearts. Adieu, my friend! May your soul rest in peace until that glorious day when our Lord will bring us together never to part again.

Your Friend, Macaulay Azuogu

What a great loss!!!

 My in-law Ben Ikpeme Ebong was naturally endowed, gifted and talented. The description in 1 Samuel 9:2b correctly fits him when we talk of endowment.(There was non amongst the Biafran Air force Officers at BAHQ Iheoma as handsome as he: from his shoulder and upward he was higher than any of the people). This gift together with his talent he put into maximum use in his sporting life which earned him the nickname MAN-MOUNTAIN at Aba Giant Killers Football club where he was the Last-man in defence. He was a delight to watch at the field of play. 

These are cherished memories I had of him. I am happy his sporting talent is not dying with him.He impacted them to his kids thus his legacy lives on.

I had hoped to meet him at this old ages but the Almighty God decides to call him home. Who are we mere mortals to question HIM. His decisions are best at all times and we give him thanks in everything.

I however take solace that he has gone the way of all mortals and now in a better place free from all the challenges of life. I also pray that God will give the loved ones he left behind the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Adieu my brother in-law. Rest in perfect peace