Weeks ago, when I read a message on social media purportedly from Ariyo appealing for prayers on his dwindling health, I did not take it as seriously as I should have. In my mind, I was saying there must be a lot of people around him who are shouldering the responsibility for his health and possibly financial challenges if any. When I heard of his demise days ago, I felt really bad. I remembered when we worshipped in the same church – The Everlasting Arms Parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Abuja years ago. And how articulate and forthright he was. I told myself I could have reached out to him even if it was words of encouragement only, I could afford. I thought about his young wife and family, and I was reminded of how transient life could be.

Ariyo-Dare Atoye who was 42 years old, was a human rights activist and Executive Director of Adopt A Goal. He was a dedicated human rights crusader who stood against policies and politics that were detrimental to Nigeria and Nigerians. Ariyo played a significant role in the passage and signing of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2022 into law. He achieved this through a coalition called Civil Society Partners on Electoral Reform (CiSPER). He led several protests against the initial delay in the passage of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill. He died after a long battle with lung cancer on Thursday 27th October 2022 in Abuja.

The more I think about him and his 42 years on Earth, the more I continue to conclude that a life without a mission that is bigger than us, is not a life worth living. Even with the stone-deafness of this administration Ariyo still believes in the Nigerian project like the great civil rights activists before him. He used his God-given abilities of creative writing, event management, and oratory to fight causes that could better the lives of Nigerians. As we move closer to the 2023 election, what are you doing to better Nigeria and Nigerians? It is a shame that we still have numerous men and women who are still campaigning for candidates that lack qualities that can deliver Nigeria from the claws of corruption. It is a travesty that seemingly respectable Nigerians still align with candidates whose antecedents evidence the fact that they lack the ethics and fortitude to lead Nigeria into an era of peace, prosperity, and progress. Ariyo has played his part; the stage light is on us to do ours as long as we can.

Ata Ukuta – Editor, Towncryyers