By Paul Mumeh
The remains of a former Defence Attache’ to the Nigerian Embassy in China, Brigadier General B.B. Tete literally walked on human heads in the ancient village of Bakin Kogi, Kaninkon, Kafanchan, Kaduna State when the detachment of Nigerian Army brought him for burial today.
The Kafanchan illustrious son passed away after a brief illness in Kaduna on September 7, 2024.
In the military tradition of paying last respect to a departed officer, officers and men of the Nigerian Army arrived the Albarka Baptist Church in Bakin Kogi with the gold-plated casket draped in Green, white, Green National colours. The crowd of mourners including former president of the senate, Senator David Mark represented by former Nigerian Ambassador to the State of Israel, Senator Anthony Manzo, former Chief of Defence Staff, General Martins Agwai, members of General Tete’s Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA) Course 20, traditional rulers, clergies, officials of Kaduna State government and some diplomats all paid glowing tributes to the man variously described as a fine officer and a gentleman.
Senator Mark is his tribute noted that Gen Tete was not only a brilliant soldier but an accomplished diplomat, teacher and a fine gentleman who was an inspirational mentor to many. According to him, “his exceptional commitment and passion for the ideals of nationhood were evident in every assignment he handled within and outside the country thus leaving an indelible mark in the minds and hearts of many.”
Scores of mourners especially his wife, Jane, family members, friends and colleagues of Gen Tete struggled to hold back their tears, but seemed to have found solace in the words that General Tete lived an eventful and accomplished life worthy of emulation.
The emotion laden scene showed that though his physical presence has departed from this world, his spirit continues to radiate within the depths of souls, forever etched in the tapestry of their memories.
For his colleagues, Gen Tete was more than a comrade at arms. He was a confidante to many, a partner in every sense of the word.
From the accounts and tributes showered on Gen Tete, his radiant spirit was a beacon of light, illuminating even the darkest rooms and bringing joy to even the gloomiest of days. His calmness, candour, and laughter were infectious, spreading like wildfire to all those who came around him. The joy he radiated could melt away any sorrow that dared to linger.
He was a soldier and gentle giant. Even when he dropped the khaki and found himself in the circle of the civilian populace, he never betrayed the emotion that he was a soldier. He mixed freely and blended with the civilians to the admiration of all.
Gen Tete had the patience and disposition to listen with empathy and understanding to issues and had always offer guidance with kindness and wisdom. His presence in any gathering was a safe haven, a sanctuary where fear and intimidation were absent.
As a Special Adviser to the President of the 6th and 7th senate, Gen Tete brought his wealth of administrative experience to bear and helped navigate through complex issues. He was arguably a man without blemish.
Like the officiating minister Rev Joseph Hayab summed up the homily, Gen Tete was a man who gave his all for the betterment of the society. He was an uncommon soldier, diplomat and a patriot who stood to be counted when it mattered.
The exit of Gen Tete at this time is akin to a life so cruel and devastating. He has transited to the great beyond but his legacies of camaraderie, selflessness and unwavering commitment to the ideals of nationhood will linger for many years to come.
The void his exit created is immeasurable, and the ache in the hearts of his colleagues, friends and families is a constant reminder of the precious moments that they will never have again.
Yet, amidst the sorrow and grief, Gen Tete is celebrated for his eventful life. For me, I choose to remember his steadfastness, loyalty, uncommon patriotism and honesty in a world where honesty is a scarce commodity.
His remains were committed to mother earth in the military tradition about 5pm in his country home Bakin Kogi, Kafanchan, Kaduna State.
Rest in peace, Gen Tete, till we meet to part no more.
Paul Mumeh.
