The news of Joshua Amode’s demise is shocking and saddening. For some of us, especially his colleagues in the AKPAFA CLASS of 2004 -2007, our initial reaction was that of disbelief. It took several checks from impeccable sources for us to be confronted with the grim reality that one of the community ‘ s soldiers has actually taken a sudden and painful exit.
Amode, the quintessential civil servant, came to administrative reckoning in the OgoriMagongo Local Government Council with his appointment as the Secretary of the topmost Finance and General Purpose Committee (F &GPC ), a statutory committee saddled with the implementation of financial , executive, and policy decisions in all Councils. In recognition of his sterling performance, he was further moved to the Legislative Chambers, where he served as the Clerk of the Council.
At the political level, our first encounter with Amode was in 2003 as a key member of our grassroots political movement. Given his insight into the workings of the local government, he emerged as one of the inestimable eggheads of our granite political structure with members across the 10 political wards of the local government area.
In recognition of his versed knowledge and thorough grasp of community affairs, Amode’ s profile was upped with his appointment as the head of the newly created security portfolio in the capacity of a special adviser.
Amode brought his vast experiences to bear on the various jobs bestowed on him at the Council and delivered diligently to the admiration of all.
After his exploits on the political turf,he returned to his bureaucratic schedules and rose to the exalted position of the director of administration in the local government before proceeding on retirement early this year.
On retirement, Amode had planned not to stand aloof on political matters affecting his beloved community. Unknown to many, he was a key member of a group clamouring for the non- annexation of our local government area.
As a group, we are saddened by the loss of our compatriot, brother ,and friend who, over the years, had demonstrated steadfastness, love ,and infectious enthusiasm for the goodness of our communities.His dedication and fidelity were unparalleled.
At this grieving period, our heart goes to his family,friends, associates, and the entire OgoriMagongo community on this huge loss.
May the soul of Joshua rest in peace.
Dr. Mathew D. Keyi
( for the AKPAFA CLASS of 2004-2007).