It’s no longer news to many Africans that rain fall at the funeral of extremely good people is a message of hope.Is it not surprising to see this pattern of thunders, lightening bolts and Rain falling on the day Late Mr Ele Sam Asebe corpse is set to arrive Ekureku. Could this be a clear sign that he lived right as a philanthropist willing to spend everything for the well-being of others?

In Nigeria Rain has several symbolic meanings attached to it, including ones related to funerals and death. There are also many superstitions attached to rain on the day of a funeral. Some people take comfort in the belief that rain during a funeral means God and his angels are crying along with those on earth over the demise of a good fellow. Even The country ballad “Holes in the Floor of Heaven” by Steve Wariner posits that rain is actually the tears of loved ones who have passed away. They’re crying because they wish they could be there on Earth celebrating momentous occasions with us.

It is also generally believed by some people that If rain falls on the day of a funeral, the deceased will go to heaven. If you hear a clap of thunder following a burial it indicates that the soul of the departed has reached heaven. The rumble of thunder following a funeral has long been accepted as a sign that the deceased was accepted into heaven. While rain during a service or burial may make a sad day even gloomier, it too is a good omen that the deceased is heaven-bound.

Ekureku community in Cross River state has today September 24, 2021 witnessed an unsual pattern of rainfall. Many people in Ekureku believe it's a good sign because, The Late Ele Sam Asebe's soul has gained admission into heaven that's why it is raining heavily as his body is set to arrive his Ekureku home where he will be laid to rest.

Friends, family and well wishers of the Late Sam have been trooping in their numbers to Ekureku in honour of a man who completely lived his life to the service and welfare of others. He was a good man, humble, God fearing and was popularly called "O'C Boiz" by youths in Abuja for his nature of carrying every young man along. He was Ekureku's own Obi Cubana.

According to popular Nigerian Columnist Mr Dan Amor, the death of Mr Ele Sam Asebe is likened to the fall of a tall Iroko Tree that provided shade for many under the scorching sun. He also wrote that

"For harbouring no evil and fearing none; for his life of deep conviction and simplicity; for being a consistent, passionate, philanthropist and caregiver to widows and mankind; for his compelling tenacity in holding firm to his faith and convictions in the midst of life’s storms; for providing jobs for hundreds of people not minding their states of origin....,Sam’s memory will remain evergreen in our hearts".

Undoubtedly, even the clouds bears witness that Uncle Sam lived a good life and memories of him will be evergreen in the hearts of his people for generations to come. May his soul rest in Peace. Amen

Written by Eval Rexson.