By Juliet Ebirim

On May 19th 2015, family members, friends and sympathisers converged to launch a book to immortalize Toba – the murdered son of ace female sports presenter, Aisha Falode. The book, ‘Gift of Grace – A sibling bond’ which was written by Toba’s sister, Tolu Falode was launched at the Wheatbaker Hotel, Ikoyi on the day Toba Falode who was murdered in Dubai about a year ago would have turned 21.

Aisha-Folade-&-Toba Folade

While speaking at the event, Aisha said she believes her son is at peace, “I have a testimony that God turns every situation around for good. Although Toba is not here with us, he’s at peace, he’s with God. I thank God for the strength and anointing he has given to Tolu and for the grace that has sustained us for the past one year. At first, when it happened, we began to question God.

But his word says that for everything that happens there is a reason and a purpose, I’m beginning to see that purpose. We are here today to celebrate the life of Toba, to give a voice to a silent voice, to show that even though he’s not here, we still have a complete family, because his presence is with us.”

Continuing she said, “‘Gift of grace – A sibling bond’ is a testimony to the fact that God Almighty is indeed a gracious and loving God whose faithfulness is steadfast. Though Toba lived a short life, it was impactful. He was a very cheerful boy and had a vision of what he wanted in life. He was loving and caring and never wanted any sadness around him.

I know he’s here with us today. I thank God for this vision he has given to Tolu. What we see in this book is beyond her years, which could only be by God’s grace. I think about my son now without any tears because of what his death has brought me, even though I would have wished that the same be given to me without taking him.

I am grateful that in his death, we have found a new life and that God is holding us by the hand and leading us through. I will remember Toba for his kindness, love and generosity. Maybe God knew that he wouldn’t be here for too long, he made him so impactful, he touched so many lives. I’m confident that surely justice will prevail some day.”

On her part, Tolu said she’s grateful to God for the inspiration. “I’m very grateful to God. I remember that at this time last year, I was very depressed and it’s only by God’s grace that I’m here to launch this book dedicated to the memory of my late brother, Toba. Today was supposed to be Toba’s 21st birthday, there are other ways we could have spent this day, but I thank God that though he’s not here, we have honoured him. I hope that the book touches the lives of those who think that they are in a hopeless situation and that it heals those that are grieving. There’s indeed hope and strength in God.”

Dignitaries in attendance include Mrs Abike Dabiri, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Festus Keyamo, Dolapo Awosika, Dr. Joe Okie-Odumakin amongst others.