The Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Ghiakhomo Dunia, has urged Nigerians to live with the consciousness of eternity, warning that nobody knows when God will call them home. This was during the requiem Mass for Chief Dan Osi Orbih at Ogbona, in Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State. The Mass was attended by a large gathering of the deceased's family members, kinsmen, friends, political associates, and other dignitaries.
In his homily, Bishop Dunia emphasized that human beings are pilgrims on earth and urged the congregation to reflect on life after death and the need to account for how they spend their time on earth. He extolled Orbih's virtues and contributions while living, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul and calling on the living to make conscious efforts to live righteous lives. The bishop stressed that how one lives is very important, as they will all be made to account for every moment.
Bishop Dunia cautioned against postponing the decision to amend one's ways, stressing that nobody can determine how much time they have left to live. He emphasized that the energy for the race for eternal life must take pre-eminence above the pursuit of wealth, degrees, and titles. The bishop urged everyone present to live daily with the consciousness of eternity, declaring that Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, a close political ally of the deceased, paid glowing tribute to Orbih, describing their relationship as one built on warmth, love, friendship, and family-like bonds. Wike said he would deeply miss the late politician, particularly the friendship and affection they shared over the years. He also dismissed interpretations of his remarks at the Night of Tributes, where he had jokingly questioned the absence of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
Governor Okpebholo, in his remarks, reflected on his previous encounter with the deceased at the same church, recalling Orbih's energetic involvement in activities during his birthday celebration. Okpebholo prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased's soul and asked God to grant his family members the fortitude to bear the loss. The governor described Orbih as a very straightforward person and noted that his death was a reminder that they will all someday go.
The requiem Mass was attended by prominent political leaders, government officials, judicial officers, and other dignitaries. Among those present were Edo state governor Monday Okpebholo, former Edo State governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole; Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh; former Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu; and Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori.
Chief Dan Osi Orbih, a former Edo State chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former National Vice-Chairman of the party in the South-South, died on Monday, August 31, 2026. He was laid to rest on Saturday, October 10, 2026, following the requiem Mass at Ogbona, his hometown in Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State.
Key points
- Bishop Dunia urges Nigerians to live with eternity in mind.
- Nyesom Wike pays tribute to Dan Orbih, dismisses speculation over relationship with Okpebholo.
- Governor Okpebholo reflects on Dan Orbih's death as a reminder of mortality.
