Blast from the past… “Class ’82” Baptist High School Eku raise the roof

By Ben Efe 8.10.2025
Some remembered the faces, but not the name; some others remembered the names and not the faces.
And so, when the Class of 1982 Baptist High School Eku returned to base on October 5, 2O25 the memories collided, sparking an excitement that brought back nostalgic feelings that last the whole evening.
It was the senior prefect Edmond Igbedion that pulled the plug on the boogie night at about 12.00am, he was supported by Kate Onos Ukueku the head girl who reminded everyone to put God first in whatever they do.
Chief host, Police Commissioner Victor Erivwode instantly protested, but someone whispered into his ears “Oga, nobody here be 42 o… before yawa go come gas for here o.”
Before the old boys and girls retired to their beds CP Erivwode handed the class some personal and financial security tips, to which he was applauded. Also, Florence Oweh Enajero offered some health tips, and she was amazing as she demonstrated with some squats and stretch exercises.
Kate Onos Ukuekwu a strong Scripture Union member back in the days practically tucked every into bed with her closing prayers.
But despite the jolting end to the party, not one of the Class ’82 members was locked in the cage of boredom, the atmosphere was electric, and everyone sprang to their feet as the boombox oozed out familiar tones…the old school vibes that defined some of the boys and girls.
Old age has never been fair to anybody, but all the members of the class resounded the old saying “age is just a number.”
Everyone shook what their mothers and fathers gave to them including Reverend Richard Obororakpo and Nathaniel Okouomoise quiet and normal looking guys amidst the wild wild boys back then.
Eguono Isiorho who let out a yell, when Betty Wright’s “Tonight is the Night” filled the air, was secretly taking a note of the dancers. Honey Obuko Obiuwebvi whose unique name went before her back in the days dance like “she nor send anybody.” Helen Onos who was remembered for her musical maiden name “Kekereegor” was not also left out of the leg shaking contest.
Chris Omosivwe proved that he wasn’t branded a smooth operator for nothing, his dancing steps attracted some of the ladies to him.
Joseph Okoh a.k.a Big Joe, wiggled his body and nodded with approval with every beat of the music. Fred Okugbeni and Sam Akusu also stomped on the dance floor
And there was Kate Akhimien Abu; Shakira would be green with envy, when she sees the video of Kate Akhimien Abu’s sleek and elegant moves. It was no surprise she was quite a vibrant lass back in the days.
Blessing Abugewa Gbinjie had little appetite for dancing because she was more concerned with the general well-being of the group, she ensured that everyone was well fed… for starters she distributed well baked cassava flakes locally known as “Kpokpo Garri” that went with fried pork from Eddy Igbedion’s farm.
Kingsley Okoedion was restrained, he came with his better half and at the same time he was streaming live so that folks in diaspora who couldn’t make it, could watch. These include Goddy Omonedo, Kingsley Omonigho Johnson who must be credited with the revamping of the class of 82 and the general BHSE forum.
Other BHSE members who were not present let everyone know they equally felt the excitement They include Hon. Austin Uroye, Lonia Ovie, Gilbert Atsegbahan, Kenny Okome, Ogaga Adasen, Lonia Ovie and many others.
The climax of the event was when Class 82 went back to the basis on Monday morning. After 43 years, the structures and landscape of their alma mater wore a different look, but the old boys and girls pointed to where their classes and hostels had stood. After trip back to memory lane, they gave the kids gifts and motivation talks. One of such talk was by this writer who had earlier lamented to the School Principal Emuobosan Ugborugbo that the basketball, volleyball, tennis courts, football field he spent his after-class time were gone. He later told the listening kids that everything he did in life today began from BHSE and they too, could aspire to be greater.
The event couldn’t have been possible without the working together of members of Class ’82. But the men who put the glue that held the event, were CP Victor Erivwode and Reverend Richard Obarorakpo. CP Erivwode ensured that the night cruising went on without hitches, while Reverend Obaroakpo and his beautiful wife made sure everything went on according to plan by day.
The icing on the cake was placed by the management of Asteriks Hotel and Resort Eku. They provided an excellent atmosphere, and now members of Class ’82 are dreaming of another “Christmas.”