The late Chief John Oke Echi, popularly known as Bob, was a remarkable pioneer and cultural hero whose contribution to the preservation of Ufia language and heritage remains significant.
Chief Echi is remembered as the first Ufia man to write and publish a book in the Ufia language. His landmark work, Koflo-ma-nona K’Ufia, which translates to Teach Yourself the Ufia Language, was first published in 1986 at the Makurdi Campus of the University of Jos.
Chief John Bob Oke Echi was born around 1952 to the family of Echi Oke, the great-great-grandson of Inyava Alike of the Batulo clan of Ufia Land. He lost his father in infancy and took his destiny by his own hands by engaging in elementary studies on which platform he rose to acquire a certificate in public administration from the University of Jos, Plateau State. He also acquired other professional certificates to align with life directives.
John Oke Echi Bob: A Life of Service, Culture, and Community Advocacy
John Oke Echi, popularly known as Bob, was a dedicated public servant, community advocate, cultural promoter, and author whose life reflected a deep commitment to service and the preservation of Ufia culture and tradition.
Bob began his civil service career at the Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Cooperatives at the Headquarters of the former Benue/Plateau State in Jos. His professional journey later took him through the University of Ibadan, Jos Campus, and subsequently the University of Jos, before culminating at the School of Basic Studies, Ugbokolo, which was later relocated to Makurdi and renamed the School of Remedial Studies, Makurdi.
At the School of Remedial Studies, Bob served in important administrative capacities. He was the Students’ Affairs Officer and later became the Secretary of the school, a position whose equivalent in today’s university administrative structure is the Registrar. Through these responsibilities, he contributed to the growth and administration of the institution while serving students and staff with dedication.
A Passionate Advocate for Ufia Culture
Beyond his career in public service, Bob was deeply passionate about his community and the preservation of its cultural heritage. He was a strong advocate for Ufia culture, language, and traditions, dedicating considerable effort to documenting and promoting them for present and future generations.
His contribution to Ufia cultural scholarship includes the authorship of Teach Yourself Ufia, a book aimed at helping people learn the Ufia language, as well as several other books on Ufia culture and history. He also authored the Ufia Historical Almanac, further demonstrating his commitment to preserving the history and identity of his people.
Bob’s work went beyond writing. He actively promoted the values, traditions, and cultural identity of his community, earning recognition as someone who cared deeply about the preservation of his people’s heritage.
Community Leadership and Public Engagement
In 1994, Bob strongly contested for a chieftaincy title in his hometown. Although the outcome was later challenged, the episode reflected his willingness to participate actively in the traditional and community affairs of his people.
His commitment to public service also extended into the welfare of retired workers. Bob served two terms as treasurer of the Benue State Chapter of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners, where he was involved in advocating for the interests and welfare of pensioners.
He was also appointed as an Honourable Councillor in a caretaker committee constituted during the military era by the then Military Governor of Benue State, Colonel Aminu Isa Kontagora. The appointment further reflected the confidence placed in his experience and commitment to community service.
A Legacy of Service
John Oke Echi’s story is one of service across several spheres—from the civil service and educational administration to pensioners’ advocacy, community leadership, and cultural preservation.
Through his writings, particularly his efforts to document the Ufia language, history, culture, and traditions, Bob helped create materials that can serve as valuable references for generations to come.
His life demonstrates that service to society is not limited to holding public office. It can also be expressed through preserving a people’s language, documenting their history, defending their cultural identity, and working for the welfare of the community.
For those who knew him and for the community whose heritage he worked tirelessly to promote, John Oke Echi (Bob) will be remembered as a man whose life was deeply connected to service, culture, and the preservation of Ufia identity.
He was a great entrepreneur to the core and a lover of music and dancing, which greatly influenced his children into music and entertainment. One of his sons, Cozy, is an international musician of great repute.
For those interested in obtaining copies of Chief John “Bob” Echi’s books, including the Ufia Historical Almanac, please contact Mystory Nigeria Ltd. or send an email to Mystorynigerialtd@gmail.com.
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