Tokunbo was more than a brother; he was a son, a friend, a protector, and a fighter. He was kind, and possessed an unwavering strength in the face of adversity — adversity he faced from the moment he was born.
Yet, he never once complained. He would rather fight — fight for those he loved, fight for what he believed he deserved, fight to defend his siblings and loved ones. That was his defining characteristic. He would never back down or turn away from wrongdoing, even when it meant facing trouble himself.
He was my brother — my big brother. He was the one I looked up to. He taught me how to be a man, how to be resilient and stand up for myself, even when outnumbered and outgunned. Because that’s what he would do. And he expected no less from me.
He was my friend. He introduced me to Lucky Dube and Bob Marley, to Busta Rhymes and Fat Joe. He taught me how to listen for musical layers and interpolations in Afrobeats before anyone knew that was a thing.
He was my mentor and inspiration. The best footballer I’d ever seen play. He taught me that “a great pass would always look like it was offside.” and ignited my passion for football, both as a player and a fan. I’d get home and tell him about my games, and he’d be so proud.
He was my shield. I’d go out and get into trouble sometimes, but no one could touch me — because I was Makanaki’s brother. It didn’t matter if he was there or not. He had fought, and would fight again, so his little brother wouldn’t have to.
And now he’ll never again be there for me.
My brother Toks; Tokunbo. Dollars. AhToks. I know you have gone to a better place. You deserve that peace more than anyone I’ve known.
I hope you knew how much we loved and missed you when we were away from each other. I hope you know how much your loss means to us — your siblings, your mother, the community you left behind in Apapa, and to me, your little brother.
I hope you sense the love, the grief, the gratitude pouring out for you. No one could deserve it more than you did, in life and now in death.
This world did not deserve you and your spirit. We did not come close to matching your strength.
Goodnight and goodbye Tension; TK; Victor Elijah; Makanaki; iStar; AhToks. Dollars.
Forever and always, your brother. Goodnight, until we meet again.
Tomiwa.
