Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called on Nigerians, particularly public office holders, to lead selfless lives and use their positions to improve society. He made the call during the funeral Mass for the late Chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, Chief Daniel Osikheme Orbih. Okpebholo's emotional remarks were a reminder of the uncertainty of life and the need for people to make meaningful contributions to society while they are alive.
Okpebholo recalled his first visit to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Ogbona, Edo State, where he celebrated Orbih's birthday, and expressed sadness at returning to the same venue for his funeral. He noted that wealth, positions, and personal achievements could not alter the reality of death. Okpebholo urged Nigerians, especially those in public office, to make life better for others. His prayers were that God Almighty would give Orbih's family the fortitude to bear the great loss.
The governor also thanked the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for standing by Orbih's family during the period of mourning. Okpebholo appreciated Wike for his support and for paying his last respects to Orbih at his residence in Benin City. This gesture demonstrated the close relationship between the governor and the minister.
Wike, in his remarks, said the funeral had reinforced the reality of death and the pain of losing a close friend. He thanked Okpebholo for receiving the corpse of Orbih and paying him the last respect at his residence in Benin City. Wike dismissed suggestions of a disagreement between him and the governor, insisting that their relationship remained cordial.
The Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, delivered a homily, urging Nigerians to reflect on the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death. He emphasized that titles, academic qualifications, positions, social status, and personal achievements could not prevent death when the time came. The bishop called on the faithful to embrace truth, live meaningful lives, and remain conscious of their responsibilities to God and humanity.
Dunia's message resonated with the attendees, who gathered to bid farewell to Orbih. The funeral Mass was a testament to Orbih's impact on the community and the esteem in which he was held. The gathering included prominent figures, such as Okpebholo and Wike, who came to pay their respects to the late Chief.
Key points from the event include Okpebholo's call to public office holders to lead selfless lives, Wike's expression of gratitude to Okpebholo for his support, and the Catholic Bishop's message on the importance of living meaningful lives. The event was a poignant reminder of the transience of life and the need for individuals to make a positive impact while they are alive.
Key points
- Okpebholo urges public office holders to lead selfless lives.
- Wike dismisses suggestions of a disagreement with Okpebholo.
- Catholic Bishop Dunia emphasizes the importance of living meaningful lives.
