Maroof Asudemade

IK Ogbonna, Yomi Casual and Vintage are rare gems in a self-centered world. In a world where friendship is often measured by convenience, social media appearances and personal gain, the conduct of IK Ogbonna, Yomi Casual and Vintage in the life and death of the late Alex Ekubo stands as a shining example of what true friendship ought to be.
The Yoruba have a profound expression: “Wọn ṣ’oju s’ẹyin” — they stood firmly behind him. Few words can better describe the roles these three men played in Alex’s life.

One of the most remarkable aspects of their friendship was the dignity and discretion with which they handled Alex’s battle with liver cancer. In an age where private struggles are easily turned into public spectacles, they chose loyalty over publicity. They protected their friend’s privacy with uncommon discipline. Not a whisper of his ailment leaked to bloggers, gossip merchants or skit makers seeking content. They carried the burden of his illness quietly, preserving his dignity until the very end.

Their loyalty did not end with his passing.
Since Alex’s death and throughout the funeral rites, IK Ogbonna, Yomi Casual and Vintage have stood like the Rock of Gibraltar beside the bereaved family. Their presence was not for cameras or applause. It was the presence of brothers whose commitment transcended friendship. They shared the pain, offered support and demonstrated that genuine friendship does not disappear when life becomes difficult.

Their actions also speak volumes about the kind of person Alex Ekubo must have been. Great friendships are rarely accidental. A man who attracts and retains friends of such character must himself have possessed qualities worthy of admiration. To these men, Alex was not merely a colleague, acquaintance or social companion; he was family.

In celebrating the memory of Alex, it is only fitting to celebrate these three loyal friends whose conduct has become a lesson to society. They remind us that friendship is not about who laughs with us when times are good, but who stands with us when storms rage. It is not about public declarations but private sacrifices.

As we reflect on their example, let us all examine the company we keep. Let us choose friends whose loyalty is proven, whose discretion can be trusted and whose commitment remains steadfast in adversity. More importantly, let us strive to become friends like IK Ogbonna, Yomi Casual and Vintage—friends who protect, support, encourage and stand by those they love, not only in moments of celebration but also in seasons of pain.

Such friends are rare. Such friends are priceless. Such friends are worth having.