In the past one year, fear, anxiety, anger, frustration and deep sorrow have overwhelmed my heart following devastating personal losses. Death has dealt me one of the most brutal blows of my lifetime — and as strange as it sounds, repeated loss has numbed my fear of death itself.
Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah.
Chukwuemeka Meks Ifechelobi.
Innocent Igwedimma Akuvue.
And now, Izuchukwu Chimezie Agina.
These men were more than friends. They were mentors, confidants, associates and brothers. Their sudden deaths struck deeper than words could ever describe. Each memory of them pierces my heart like a spear.
Yet in the midst of grief, two powerful songs have remained my greatest consolation: Horatio Spafford’s “It Is Well With My Soul” and Jude Nnam’s “Kosisochukwu.” Their stories remind me that beyond pain, God still brings peace.
Horatio Spafford: A Story of Tragedy, Faith and Unshaken Hope
Horatio Spafford was a respected Chicago lawyer, devout Christian and successful real estate magnate. Married to Anna Spafford, they had five children and lived a fulfilled life — until tragedy came in waves.
His only son died of scarlet fever at age four. Shortly after, the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 destroyed most of his massive investments, bringing him to financial ground zero.
Seeking healing, Spafford planned a family trip to Europe. A sudden business emergency delayed him, so his wife and daughters traveled ahead. Tragedy struck again when their ship, Ville du Havre, collided mid-journey and sank. His four daughters died. His wife Anna alone survived and sent him the heartbreaking telegram: “Saved Alone.”
On his journey to meet his grieving wife, the ship captain pointed him to the exact location where the accident occurred. Overwhelmed, Spafford wept bitterly — then found strength in God. Right there, he wrote one of the greatest hymns of hope in human history:
“When peace like a river attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.”
From the ashes of unimaginable loss came a song that has healed millions of broken hearts for generations.
Jude Nnam: When Faith Becomes Worship in Pain
Jude Nnam is one of Africa’s greatest musical composers and the leading force behind Catholic liturgical music across Nigeria and beyond. His songs dominate over 75% of Catholic Masses in Nigeria, blending African rhythm with sacred worship in a way only he can.
Beyond his titles — Papal Knight of St. Sylvester, Yamaha Ambassador, master composer — lies a man who understands pain.
He lost his only son.
Yet instead of drowning in grief, he lifted his voice in surrender to God and composed the powerful hymn “Kosisochukwu,” a declaration that whatever God allows is ultimately for His glory.
The lyrics speak faith beyond understanding:
“Kosiso Chineke Nna m” — As it pleases my God.
“Odiri m mma, odiri m njo, a ga m aturu Gi mma mma” — Whether good or bad, I will still praise You.
“Ebe o masiri Gi… o masiri m” — Wherever it pleases You, it pleases me too.
His pain birthed worship. His sorrow produced strength for millions facing similar storms.
The Lesson: Finding Peace in Surrender
Music is more than sound — it is therapy, prayer and emotional refuge. Both hymns remind us that when life becomes unbearable, surrendering to God brings peace.
They teach us faith, hope, resilience, divine trust and inner calm when everything collapses. They renew shattered spirits and remind us that God is still God, even in tragedy.
Tribute to the Fallen Heroes in My Life
These songs have comforted me as I mourn four extraordinary men:
Dist. Sen. Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah — serial entrepreneur, philanthropist, political icon and devout Catholic who almost became the first individual to build an entire cathedral by himself.
Chukwuemeka “Meks” Ifechelobi — brilliant tech expert, humble, kind and ever supportive.
Ozo Engr. Dr. Sir Innocent Akuvue — wealthy businessman, community pillar, God-fearing gentleman and my mentor.
Izuchukwu Agina — businessman, visionary, loyal friend turned brother with whom I shared many life journeys.
Their deaths still hurt deeply.
But when grief overwhelms me, I remember Spafford’s words:
“It is well with my soul.”
And I echo Jude Nnam’s submission:
“Kosisochukwu” — as it pleases God.
May their souls find perfect rest in the Lord. Amen.
Written by: Tobenna Obiano
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