Society
‘My Bestie Is Gone’: Top Aide To Gov Eno And Media Veteran Michael Effiong Loses Wife, Oluwakemi
the grieving husband described the late Oluwakemi as his closest companion
Grief has enveloped the family of media veteran and top government aide, Michael Effiong James, following the death of his wife, Oluwakemi Oyeteju James.
James, who serves as Senior Special Assistant (Lagos Liaison) to Governor of Akwa Ibom state, Umo Eno and is a former editor at Ovation International and Encomium magazines, announced the passing of his wife in an emotional message shared with family, friends and associates.
In the statement, the grieving husband described the late Oluwakemi as his closest companion and an extraordinary woman whose kindness touched many lives.
“It is with a deep sense of sadness and loss that I, on behalf of the James, Oyediran, Ojikutu, and Macaulay families, announce the passing of my very dear wife, Oluwakemi Oyeteju James,” he wrote.
The friend of many spoke tenderly of their bond, referring to her as his best friend and pillar of the family.
“She was my bestie, doting mother of our lovely biological children Kufre and Aniete and several other non-biological children, wonderful friends, aunts, cousins and sisters,” the senior journalist disclosed.
According to James, Oluwakemi passed away after battling for weeks following a domestic accident, a period he described as deeply painful for the family.
“She passed after battling for weeks following a domestic accident. We are devastated, but we know that God knows best and she is in a better place,” he further revealed.
James paid tribute to the late Oluwakemi’s character, saying she embodied the meaning of her name through compassion, generosity and strength of spirit.
“Kemi exemplified her name. She was caring to a fault, hard when need be, and a philanthropist extraordinaire,” he added.
While expressing the family’s profound grief, the former magazine editor appealed for prayers and support as they navigate the difficult moment.
“We request your prayers during this incredibly difficult moment of grief,” the top government aide stated, adding “May God continue to protect us all.”
The announcement has drawn sympathy from friends, colleagues and associates within media, government and social circles who remember the late Oluwakemi for her warmth and generosity.
She is survived by her husband, children, and extended family members across the James, Oyediran, Ojikutu and Macaulay families.
