Judging George

Nemo Iudex in causa sua is the Latin way of saying one cannot be a judge in his own case. But in this case of Fr. George v. MBN, I take leave to judge George in our matter. I pledge to uphold the tenets of fairness, natural justice and equity in this matter and if anyone tries to interfere, I'll pass a summary judgment immediately.

It was sometime in early 2008 when I heard about Fr. George Adimike for the first time. I've heard so much about him from my elder brother Valentine and when I read his work on Archbishop Valerian M. Okeke around that time, I desired to meet this young priest who was blazing the trail by using the new media in evangelization. Before I proceed further, it is worthy of note to state unequivocally that I'm the judge and principal witness in this suit. By no means do I desire the contribution of any further witness since I'm the originator and executor. So bear with me.

I met Fr. George Adimike for the first time in 2009 when my elder brother Valentine requested me to aid him in collecting a package from the priest. While on transit, many thoughts rushed through my mind and given my poor eloquence at the time (I'm a firebrand right now), I felt this gentleman who has achieved so much in such a short time would belittle me. Repeatedly, I wanted to turn back but my brother would have none of my excuses so I reluctantly arrived Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity that Sunday afternoon, and headed for the Rectory.

I asked for directions to his abode and on knocking, he opened the door. I froze. I was thinking of seeing a very tall and huge individual given what I have read and heard about him. In my startled state, I humbly but nonchalantly asked; "are you Fr. George or the seminarian working with him?" He smiled, extended a hand and said his name is George, the priest. Before I could bring myself to apologise, he already crossed his right hand on my shoulder and introduced me to everyone in his sitting room as the junior brother to the troublesome Val. My senior brother, Valentine, had told me Fr. George is a very unassuming human being and I began to see the traces immediately. I liked him instantly though I had my reservations.

Later in 2010 when I was posted for my one year internship after Secondary School for those that passed through the Junior Seminary, it was like a homecoming for me. And because I had plans of pursuing a legal career without being a clergy and enjoying the thrills of fatherhood, I made sure I wasn't posted to work under him. But his wonderful personality, generosity beyond comprehension, wisdom packaged in humility and gift of the gab kept drawing me back to learn more from him.

In delivering my first judgment, Fr. George Adimike is guilty of pushing beyond borders and expending all positive options to get what he wants. I remember sometime in 2011 during my internship, I finished having dinner and decided to take an after-meal stroll with a friend past the Rectory. On sighting us, Fr. George beckoned on us with his usual beaming smile that carries an undertone of uncertainty.

After the usual greetings and inquiries of how our divergent offices was faring, he stated his difficulty with finding someone who would deliver a letter for him at Ibadan the next morning. This conversation was happening around 8pm and bemused, I humbly told him that it was impossible for him to find someone who would leave for Ibadan from Onitsha the next morning. He looked at me and smiled. I knew what would follow so I clearly stated to him that I'm not his solution.

In life, we learn and grow not solely by the decisions we make for ourselves, but also by the ones we were pressured to take. Good or bad, it is always noble to take full responsibility. I learnt that from George and quite frankly, its one I've come to appreciate as I age.

"You have been to Ibadan once and I believe you can easily navigate around and find your way." Fr. George said with a strong conviction that I am his "Ibadan solution". I insisted that tomorrow was a working day and I needed to be at the office to avoid any queries. Immediately, he called my boss and obtained permission on my behalf and I was startled. In summary, I ended up travelling to Ibadan the next morning and taking care of what he needed to be done. Many years after, I've continued to use the same persuasive measures on my subordinates when I want something to be done.

Through the years, I have continued to learn more about life from the perspective of this revered gentleman and as my birthday on June 5 approaches, I hope to pick up another lesson that will broaden my horizon and help me in having a better comprehension about life.

In time, I will still pass more judgments. For now, the court will adjourn sine die.

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Articles by Martin Beck Nworah