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CHIEF DAVID EDEBIRI: WHEN THE TRADUCER OF WITCHES AND WIZARDS JOINS HIS ANCESTORS

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PROF MIKE A. A. OZEKHOME, SAN, CON, OFR, FCIArb, LL.M, LL.D., Ph.D, D.Litt.
I

NTRODUCTION
A nonagenarian and repository of Benin history, culture, customs and tradition, Chief David Edebiri (the Esogban of Benin kingdom), joined his ancestors on Thursday 20th July, 2023. He died a contented Elderstatesman and Nationalist; next only to the Iyase (traditional Prime Minister) in the Benin Kingdom. By his Esogban title, he occupied an eminent second position in the Eghavbonore League in the Oba’s palace. I am very proud to belong to this elite league.
In the rich tapestry of Nigerian history, there are certain iconic figures that stand luminous for their exceptional qualities and contributions to their communities and the nation at large. Chief David Edebiri, the Esogban of Benin Kingdom, was undeniably one such luminary. Throughout his lifetime, he epitomized courage, truthfulness, wisdom, and preached the virtues of unity in a bleeding nation still grappling with multi-dimensional challenges of misused diversity. This elegy aims to celebrate the unforgettable life, times and legacy of Chief David Edebiri, an influential and revered leader who left an indelible mark on the sands of time of Benin Kingdom and Nigeria as a whole.

WAS CHIEF EDIBIRI REALLY A WIZARD, OR FATHER OF WITCHES AND WIZARDS?
Late Chief Edebiri was a delight to cross words with in hot arguments and intellectual masturbation even at his very old age. He fondly called me AKPAKPA ZIGHI ZIGHI instead of AKPAKPA VIGHI VIGHI (Generalissimo) of Edoland. I never bothered to correct him, because I believed that was how he preferred to pronounce it. In return, I always called him the head of witches and wizards. He would simply guffaw, without affirming or denying it. But was the Esogban truly a wizard? Was he father to witches and wizards, as often inferred? Who then is a witch; and who is a wizard?
WHO IS A WIZARD?
A wizard (in legend and fairy tales) is a man who possesses magical powers. Synonyms are sorcerer, warlock, magus, male witch and magician.
WHO IS A WITCH?
A witch on the other hand, is the female version of a wizard; also called sorceress, necromancer, harpy, harridan, she-devil, termagant, occultist and enchantress. A witch is often depicted as a woman wearing a black cloak, pointed hat, and flying on a broomstick. She is believed to have magical powers, especially evil powers.
So, was chief Edebiri such a wizard, or did he posses the powers to control them whenever they met in their spiritual coven world?
He was interviewed on this. He agreed that it was he who was overseeing the operations of witches and wizards among his other traditional functions in Benin Kingdom. But, he denied being a wizard himself. He said though he is the “departmental head” of witches and wizards in the Benin monarchy, he was not a wizard himself; but only rendering services to humanity by taming the excesses of these destructive witches and wizards. Hear him:
“There is the upper class; those are the people running the government. They run the government all of us are in. And once they make decision in that area, it is binding all over. They think of how the society will grow”, he narrated.
Asked where he acquired the authority he used to tame suspected witches and wizards, Chief Edebiri replied: “Ah, it is the power of God Almighty and that of the Oba of Benin (laughter). We have averted much havoc that these people would have caused in Benin Kingdom.”
He recalled a time when witches were very brutal in Benin Kingdom until a traditional parliamentary action was endorsed by the great, great grandfathers, to put together a group, to which he (Edebiri) became the leader, to curtail their excesses.
According to the Esogban, “in the past, witches were either killed or sent to the evil forest; but now, any erring ones caught were court-martialed and deactivated to live a new life”.
Chief Edebiri shocked everyone when he revealed that “most of the witches were either church singers or having a position in the church but they could not succeed anywhere the name of Jesus Christ was mentioned”.
He said: “I tell you that most of them do not succeed anywhere Jesus is mentioned. And I asked them, do you mean that you people fear the awesome power of Jesus Christ, they said yes. I asked them further, if you say that you fear the power of Jesus, how do you feel when the pastor is condemning you people in the name of Jesus, they said they will be condemning the pastor too. But I can tell that so many of them have been converted to Christianity after passing through this place.”(see https://www.ceoafrica.com)
Thus, contrary to the widely held erroneous view, Papa Edebiri was neither a wizard, nor an unbeliever who controlled witches and wizards. Indeed, his above interview clearly shows that the legend believed in Jesus Christ whose power he described as “awesome power of Jesus Christ”. On the authority he invoked to “tame suspected witches and wizards”, the cerebral traditionalist laughed, but replied matter-of-factly, “Ah, it is the power of God Almighty and that of the Oba of Benin”. You see, he would never forget tradition even as he believed in the supremacy and over-lordship of God Almighty.
I. A LIFE ROOTED IN COURAGE AND SERVICE.
Chief Edebiri David was born into a lineage that had a rich history of courageous leaders. From an early age, he imbibed the values of fearlessness and resilience, traits that he would exemplify throughout his momentous life. As a young man, he encountered numerous obstacles and challenges, but his unyielding determination enabled him to weather them and rise above adversity to emerge as a beacon of hope for his people.

Papa’s courage was most evident during the period of political instability and turmoil in Nigeria. He fearlessly voiced his concerns about the prevailing issues, taking bold stands against corruption, injustice and imperialism. His unwavering commitment to the truth earned him both respect and admiration, laying the foundation for his lifelong pursuit of truth and justice. During his 93rd birthday celebration and the unveiling of his most recent three books- “Tripod of Life: Essence of Benin Tradition and Culture”; “The Life and Times of Iyase N’Ohenmwen,” and “Immortalizing our Heros Past: Nigerian Nationalists in Focus” in Benin City, Edo State, he stated that Nigeria derailed from the path best suited for her development when she threw away the Parliamentary System of Government learnt from the British government over 100 years ago and changed to the American Presidential System of government. We are not even practising the American Presidential System of Government holistically. He argued that “If you want to adopt a system, you adopt it wholeheartedly. Today, our judiciary is still the British system; yet we are running a presidential government.”

Pa Edebiri recalled with nostalgia, his foray into politics in one of his tripodal books titled, “Immortalizing our Heros Past: Nigerian Nationalists in Focus”. He recalled how he had fallen out with Chief Anthony Enahoro for accepting the position of Assistant General Secretary in the Action Group (AG) at its Inaugural Conference at Owo in April, 1951: “We queried: “why should a visionary, progressive Nationalist of his calibre join such a tribal organization of Yoruba egoists?”.

However, this partisan party differences never affected their relationship. This was why when Edebiri decided to defect from the NCNC/Otu-Edo to the AG in August, 1958, Chief Enahoro’s house was his first port of call, just like many others who also defected. Indeed, it was Oba Akenzua II and Enahoro who facilitated his decampment; a development that earned his instant recognition by the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He reminiscenced on this: “My decision to join the Action Group at that point in time wad the best decision I had ever taken in all my active political life”. This is because it enabled him to work with “two political giants … whose boundless energy and skill for grass root mobilization were unequalled by any politician of their time”.

Pa Edebiri’s wise decision did not go unrewarded, as he was immediately appointed the Action Group Administrative Secretary, Midwest Area. He was later appointed the Organising Secretary of the AG in the same Midwest. Indeed, Alhaji Ja’ Usman (his former colleague in the N.C.N.C) was instructed to immediately assign a car to Chief Edebiri’s office. The understanding was that his main duty would be in the field and not in the office. Edebiri’s membership drive for the AG towards the Federal Elections of December 12, 1959, led to the popular acceptance recorded by the AG; a feat the legendary Awo was later to acknowledge at several fora.

The creation of the Midwest Region on 10th August, 1963, from the Western Region was spear-headed by Chief Edebiri, Oba Akenzua, Dr Dennis Osadebe, Kessington Momoh, Jereton Mariere, Chief Okojie, and a host of others. They used the Region’s resources from rubber and timber plantations to develop the Old Mid-West Region. That was how effective true fiscal federalism was. That is why the question is still being asked as to why the equation has suddenly changed to a meagre 13% derivation formula now that only the Niger Delta (South-South) zone produces the crude oil that drives the engine wheels of the Nigerian Nation. This is why South-South people feel offended whenever they are told to show “gratitude” for being “allowed” 13% of a product that is derived from their soil; an activity that destroys their aquatic and agrarian life, ancestral totems, cultural relics and which cause unprecedented negative economic and health issues.
II. A CHAMPION OF TRUTH.
In a world where deception and misinformation are all too common, Chief Edebiri stood out as a champion of truth. The fiery Orator, Political Activist, anti-colonial nemesis, frontline prose writer and fearless journalist understood the power of truth to shape society positively and transform lives. Whether it was in his personal interactions or public speeches, he always spoke with unwavering honesty, unafraid to address uncomfortable truths. He addressed the gender disparity in our politics. During the “Outstanding Women Award” organized by the “Live Above Poverty Organisation” in Benin, Chief Edebiri noted that “inequality of resources is responsible for the fewer number of women in political appointments and elective positions in the country”.

As the Esogban of Benin Kingdom, Chief Edebiri used his eminent position to advocate for transparency and accountability in governance. His commitment to truthfulness earned him the trust of his people; and he became an influential figure both within the Benin Kingdom and beyond. His actions demonstrated that truthfulness and integrity were not just abstract ideals that were mutually exclusive, but essential building blocks for a just, egalitarian and cohesive society.
III. THE WISDOM OF A SAGE.
An alumnus of Western Boys High School, Benin City (WOBITE), Edebiri at 83 (octogenarian) led his Benin Chapter Old Boys for a reunion to the USA, a forum where he showed his passion and zeal to develop his land. Chief Edebiri David’s wisdom is legendary. Drawing from the rich cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom and his own experiences, he offered profound insights into various aspects of life, governance, and societal development. People from all walks of life sought his wise counsel, appreciating his discerning perspectives on complex issues.
His wisdom transcended generations. He took it upon himself to mentor and guide the younger generation. He believed that empowering the youth with knowledge and wisdom was crucial for sustainable progress in Nigeria. Through his uncommon wisdom, Chief Edebiri David inspired countless individuals to make informed decisions and lead purposeful lives.
IV. PREACHING UNITY FOR A DIVERSE NATION.
Nigeria, being a nation of diverse cultures, languages, and religions, has long grappled with issues of unity and cohesion. Edebiri recognized the significance of fostering unity among Nigerians and understood that a divided nation could not progress. As a unifying figure, he championed inter-ethnic and inter-religious harmony, striving to bridge the yawning gaps that threatened the very fabric of a country still yearning for nationhood.

Through his many energising speeches and initiatives, he emphasized the importance of embracing diversity and finding strength in unity. His message resonated across communities, sparking conversations that promoted tolerance and mutual understanding. Chief Edebiri David believed that by embracing their shared heritage and celebrating their differences, Nigerians could build a stronger, more inclusive nation; a case of unity in diversity.
V. LEGACY AND IMPACT.
Chief Edebiri David’s influence and impact extended far beyond the borders of the Benin Kingdom. His courage, truthfulness, wisdom, and advocacy for unity left an indelible mark on the national consciousness. His efforts to promote peace and stability in Nigeria were recognized and lauded by both his peers and younger generations. He gathered laurels for that. He believed that good leaders can only emerge through a free and fair election. While casting his votes in the House of Assembly Election conducted on February 25 this year, the elder statesman expressed delight that he could witness and still come out again to exercise his franchise even at age 93.

His passing has left a void in the hearts of many who admired and respected him. However, his legacy lives on through the people whose lives he touched and the values he instilled in them. The various community development projects he initiated continue to thrive, serving as a testament to his enduring commitment to progress and prosperity for all.
CONCLUSION
Chief Edebiri David, the Esogban of Benin Kingdom, was a true visionary and an embodiment of courage, truthfulness, wisdom, and unity. He fearlessly confronted challenges, upheld the truth in all situations, and dispensed sage advice that impacted generations. His tireless efforts to foster unity in Nigeria inspired countless individuals to embrace their diversity and work towards a common goal. His achievements are timeless.

As we reflect on the life, times and legacy of Chief David Edebiri, let us remember him not just as a remarkable leader of the Benin Kingdom, but as a symbol of hope, unity and inspiration for a united and prosperous Nigeria. Papa, may your example continue to guide us all in our pursuit of truth, justice, and unity; and this for generations yet unborn. Adieu, great Nationalist; Farewell, Hero of Midwest, Bendel and Edo Concepts. Rest in the Lord’s warm bosom, even as you continue to conquer witches and wizards from the great beyond. Isee.

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KEN CALEBS OLUMESE: The 38th Governor of Nigeria introduction

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KEN CALEBS OLUMESE

By PROFESSOR MIKE A. A. OZEKHOME, SAN, OFR, FCIARB, LL.M, PH.D, LL.D, D.LITT, D.SC, D.HL.

If there is one person who has defined avant-garde nightclubbing in Nigeria, it is the one and only Ken-Calebs Olumese, known to his legion of fans and admirers as ‘The Guv’nor’, Nigeria’s unofficial 38th Governor. Not of a State, no; nor of our apex bank, The CBN.

It is his own nom de guerre conferred on him by popular public acclamation and consensus, albeit informally. How did this come about? How did one man transcend the statutory (and indeed, constitutional) strictures to appropriate to himself so effortlessly what so many have deployed life and limb (not to mention financial fortunes) to acquire: the ‘right’ or – more correctly, privilege – of being addressed as a ‘Governor’ (even if, in his case, it is stylized as ‘Guv’nor’v)?
It is a long and interesting story, but the occasion of his eightieth birthday is as good an opportunity as any for a historical excursion, a trip down memory lane, into the remarkable life and times of Chief Olumese. Our celebrant made his earthly debut on the 27th day of May 1944.
From his relatively humble beginning (his father was a priest) in the sleepy town of Ekpoma, in Edo State, his initial inclination was to follow his father’s footsteps into priesthood. This was sequel to his education, first at Western Boys High School, Benin City, followed by Hussey College, warri.
He subsequently worked with the Federal Ministry of Information from where he was seconded to become the Personal Assistant to the Executive Director of FESTAC 77. Thereafter, he became a Medical Visitor with a Paris-based international pharmaceutical firm. He then transitioned, to becoming, first, a Medical Representative of the firm, then its Marketing Co-ordinator; then Manager, Finance and Administration, and finally, as an Executive Director.
Having reached the zenith of a reputable corporate organization (Roussel Nigeria), Mr. Guv’nor bowed out gracefully and left to pursue his longheld dreams and his desire for self-actualization: to establish his pet project – a nightclub and corporate events centre. This was what prompted him to launch the Niteshift Club at Opebi, Road, Lagos, in 1988.
The first of its kind then in Nigeria and the West African subregion, it boasted of all the facilities and ambience of similar leisure and recreation centres anywhere in the world. This was deliberate, as Chief Olumese set out to target the creme de la creme of the society – the best of the best and, he succeeded.
They came in droves, deserting older, more established nightclubs. The Coliseum (as it was later known) became the nightclub to beat. It set the bar and No. 34 Salvation Road, Opebi, Ikeja, Lagos – its address – became the entertainment capital of Nigeria, not just Lagos.
This remained so even after the country’s capital was moved to Abuja in 1991. It was not uncommon to find scores of businessmen (and women) and others trooping from Abuja on Fridays to spend their weekends in Lagos, just because a non-political, noninstitutional Chief Executive, our very own Guv’nor, had a “jam” or two (events or programmes) planned at the Club/Coliseum. So famous was he that he became synonymous with first-rate entertainment, event hosting and nightclubbing.
To be sure, Olumese did not invent night life or night clubbing in Lagos; but for over three decades, he reshaped it and accorded it its gravitas. His Coliseum outfit became the place to see and be seen. Presidents (including Jerry John Rawlings of Ghana), State Governors (real Governors!), Captains of Industry, name it: they all flocked to Niteshift and the Coliseum. Very few of them, however, knew the amount of industry, hard work, dedication, commitment, sacrifice and benevolence (of friends and well-wishers), which contributed to making the club the success it was. From an isolated, lonely, decrepit marshland, the Guv’nor spent a fortune (five times the cost of the land itself) sandfilling it alone.
This was followed by the colossal cost of erecting the physical structure and ancillary works which is the imposing edifice that we all recognize today. 3 The choice of the name of the club’s make-over (from Nightshift to the Coliseum) was deliberate: a brilliant stroke of marketing ingenuity of a genius as it echoed a cavernous structure in Ancient Rome.
Even though its Nigerian ‘replica’ does not match its famous namesake in size, it arguably rivals it in style, grandeur, panache and appointment. Standing on a mere six pillars (just like that of Rome), its uniqueness is allembracing: from the designation of its attendants (called ‘hosts’, not ‘waiters’ or ‘waitresses’), to its patrons (called ‘guests’); to disc jockeys (called ‘music presenters’); to its restrooms (called ‘vanities’); and finally, its door-keepers (normally called bouncers, but whom it calls ‘first men’).
Talking about appellations, Olumese’s moniker of ‘Guv’nor’ was also deliberate: it was, by his own admission, self-chosen, but with a spin, in terms of spelling, to distinguish it from the 36 State Governors in Nigeria and the CBN Governor. This is why he is the 38th Governor. Even though a rose by any other name would smell just as sweet, however, it would be a mistake to think Mr. Olumese’s outfit is all about form and not substance – because it is not.
There is far more to it than that, as it is more than the sum of its parts. This accounts for its longevity and durability over the years, when its rivals have since folded up and gone into extinction in a field that is notorious for its high mortality rate. So, how did Olumese sustain it, to become, effectively, the Mohican; the last man standing in elite entertainment exclusively targeting the discerning?
The answer must be in Olumese’s sheer organizational wizardry and acumen, which ensured that his club was scrupulously run in line with international best practices, as is obtained in the entertainment capitals of the world. These rules were religiously and uniformly applied to all: guests, staff and even himself – without discrimination. Mr. Olumese was very clear from day one about his target clientele. He set out to establish an outfit that was not an all-comer’s affair. No.
It was not for the hoi polloi – for every Tom, Dick and Harry. He was4 unapologetic about this: his focus was the Upper-Middle Class, the Upper Class and the Super Upper Class. This model was so successful that it was followed by other entertainment organizations (such as, Ovation Magazine). Finally, he shrewdly ensured that, apart from nightclubbing, other services were also offered by his organization.
These include hosting corporate meetings, conferences, seminars, exhibitions, fashion shows and even children’s parties. The last was particularly a master stroke as its strategy of ‘catch-them-young’ ensured that some of the children who attended those parties, grew up to join the club, and they – in turn – brought their own children to such parties thereby securing a potentially endless generation stream of loyal customers.
Such satisfied customers are legion, with some bearing customized identifiers called ‘Glamour Cards’ which were upgradeable to Gold Status. Such is the class and panache which Mr. Olumese has come to symbolize and for which he is justly recognized. This came, recently, this year, in the form of a well deserved Lifetime Achievement Award conferred on him by organizers of the Silverbird Man of the Year Awards, belying the saying that a prophet has no honour in his homeland (Mark 6:4). This is one prophet honoured in his home.
That singular event was a richly deserved reversal of roles of sorts, as it was usually Mr. Olumese who habitually celebrated others at his Club’s “Grand House Reception”. On those occasions, he hosted special guests (successful Nigerians, such as captains of industry, opinion leaders, entertainers and sportsmen and women). While those receptions were, strictly speaking, not award ceremonies, they however afforded the guests and his club’s patrons unique opportunities to mix and fraternize which (for many of the former) were opportunities of a lifetime.
Such guests were as illustrious as they came, including the likes of Senate Presidents, Ministers, State Governors and even former Ghanaian Leader Ft. Lt. (later President) Jerry Rawlings.
A special guest was normally put on the hot seat with Rueben Abati and Taiwo Obileye grilling them. A case of intellectual fisticuffs amidst wining and dining. I was one of such guests; praise God. 5 Chief Olumese’s success is all the more remarkable because he did not acquire any special proficiency prior to plunging into nightclubbing. He simply learnt on the job and his spartan self-discipline, work ethic and natural inborn flair seem to have done the trick.
That’s what made his club tick. But no good thing lasts forever. In his case, Mother Nature (in the form of age) has taken its toll – which is what we are presently celebrating: all of four scores! Wow! Incredible, because the Guv’nor is still as sprightly as a spring chicken. He does not use prescription glasses, nor a walking stick; not even a cane. He possesses elephant memory which is razor-sharp; and so are his wits.
The vagaries of time have however forced him to cede the running of his beloved club to another, equally capable outfit, in order to ensure the confirmation of his legacy. It was, however, merely, leased out, not sold as was popularly rumored, ensuring that his legacy outlives him for generations unborn. As the one and only 38th Guv’nor in Nigeria who was neither elected nor appointed by the people, Mr. Olumese has carved a niche which remains peculiarly his own with his own people. There is no other like him in the entertainment world.
He is nullus secondus. In the twilight of his earthly sojourn, here is wishing this unusual man of grace, style, effervescence, class and panache, God’s grace and even more blessings. You are a rare gem, sir. They do not make them like you anymore. We can confidently say that you came, saw and conquered (vini vidi vici) the terrain of nightclubbing and entertainment. You bestrode that field like a colossus and, indeed a titan. You are one of a kind. Congratulations and many happy returns. Nigerians are proud of you

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Senate tells FG to Imortalise Ogbonaya Onu

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The senate on wednesday in one voice urged the Federal Government to Immortalise the late Minister of Science, Technology and Innovations, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu
The resolution came after a motion of urgent national importance, moved during plenary by Senator Anthony Ani, who is representing Ebonyi North in the red chamber.
Onu died on the 11th of April, 2024, at an Abuja hospital, after a brief illness
Ani told his colleagues that the late Onu was born on 1st December, 1951, and was elected the first Executive Governor of old Abia State (now Abia and part of Ebonyi States).
According to him, the late politician was a symbol of excellence and an academic icon in Nigeria having obtaining First Class Honours degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Lagos, and Ph.D in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, USA.
Continuing, he said the late Onu was the pioneer Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering, and a pioneer staff of the Faculty of Engineering, University of Portharcourt, Nigeria.
The late former governor of Abia State, according to Ani, was the first Chairman of the Conference of elected Governors in Nigeria (now Governors’ Forum).
“The late Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu was the first Presidential flag bearer of the All People’s Party (APP) in the 1999 Presidential election in Nigeria.
“The late Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu was the National Chairman of the All Nigerian People’s Party (ANPP), at the time the party was merged with other political parties to form the current ruling party in Nigeria, the All Progressives Congress (APC).”
The Senate observed a minute silence in honour Onu, urged the Federal Government to Immortalise him and constituted a committre to commiserate with his family and people of Ebonyi State.
Speaking on the motion, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, described Onu as a consummate politician and a detribilise Nigerian.
He said, “If not for Ogbonaya Onu there would have been no APC today, the simplicity of Ogbonaya Onu, his humble disposition appeals to your conscience and he released the CPC for the merger to tale place what we have today the All Progressives Congress.
“I also had a personal interaction with Ogbonaya Onu when I was a Minister in the last administration and he was the Minister of Science and Technology.
“He was very innovative, he was very simple, always smiling, a man who in his lifetime had any enemy. He was friendly to all and always ready to concede and sacrifice for the good of the nation.”
In his contribution, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin, described Onu as a man of honour and integrity.
Barau said, “He was a governor and later after passing through various offices, became the chairman of a very big opposition party. Yet, he was very humble.
“I interacted with him when he was the national chairman of ANPP, the party I belonged to then, and you could see a democrat. He made sure that there was internal democracy in the ANPP.
“When the process of the formation of the APC commenced, he keyed into the project. He was one of those chairmen that willingly let their parties dissolved to form the APC at that time, because he was the last chairman of the ANPP.
“He lived a life of service to our nation. He was an epitome of humility, an epitome of credibility and an epitome of integrity.
“At this juncture, I will pray and extend my condolences to his immediate family, to the people of Ebonyi State, to the APC family and the entire nation.”

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Glowing tributes pour in for late Ojuogboh from Sherriff, eminent Nigerians

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A former Governor of Borno State Senator Modu Sheriff on Sunday evening described late Cairo Ojuogboh as the most unique and dependable among all his friend.

Sheriff who Spoke at an evening of Tribute to celebrate the life and legacies of Dr. Cairo Ojuogboh.

Ojuogboh, a former member of the House of Representatives slumbed and died on Feb. 8, while watching the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-finals between Nigeria and South Africa.

Sheriff, the Chairman of the Organising Committee said: ”Im still shocked that Ojuogboh is no more. If there was a perfect gentleman I met in the course of my life is Ojuogboh.
“He called me, ‘my chairman, I am going to watch the football match. I told him I was already in my sitting room after clearing every where to avoid distraction, so that I can watch Nigeria semi final against South Africa.

“Nearly one and half hours later I got a call that Dr. Ojuogboh is dead. I told the person, he must be crazy, I just spoke to Cairo now, he gave me the rundown of his itinerary for the day, what he did, where he went and he retired for the football match

“If there is a perfect gentleman, I have met in the course of my life, one person that you can trust, this is a gent that you can rely on is Dr. Cairo. If I am in Abuja, the first person that I will see and the last person is Cairo

“This is a gentleman that I met in the course of my political career and he gave me the insight of the other side of Nigeria

“I have met a lot of people from all works of life, all my life in Lagos before I went back to Borno in 1992, in the senate and on and on, in the constitutional conference, I have met all kinds of people from all works of life but I have never met a human being that make me feel so free to talk with like Cairo.

“If the circumstances we met would have been the parameter he would not have been my friend in life. “The first day we discussed frankly was in the House of former Governor of Delta State Seriake Dickson in Bayelsa and that was my first time in Bayelsa.

“We had a disagreement and I don’t carry anybody on my mind to bed with anger. If I have anything against you I will tell you there and then and I will forget about it. I told him, he apppologused to me and from that day we became the best of friends.

“I know he has left a lot of children, young and old but I want to assure all of you that I will be there for you anytime you call upon me. He is one person that I will not forget, he is one person that I will remember all the time.

“Honestly and sincerely because I am a Muslim and the Holy Koran says Allah gives you life and Allah takes, you have no right to question. Otherwise one would have question why, but one would have offended God.

“He was one person I will not forget; he was one person I will remember all the time. He lived a good life worth emulating.”

On the circumstance that led to the death of Ojuogboh, Sheriff said that it showed that the deceased was a true Nigerian, a nationalist.

Sheriff called on leaders to be more patriotic saying that patriotism is what would keep the country together.

“We have to believe in and be proud of our country,” he said.

Chairman of the Occasion, a former Gov.of Akwa-Ibom, Victor Attah, prayed God to comfort the family of the deceased.

He said: “God that provided you this husband, father and uncle, will continue to provide for you. God will comfort you; God will give you the strength to bear the loss.”

Elderstateman and Leader of Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Edwin Clark, who spoke virtually, said that he had known Ojuogboh for a long time and was like a son to him.

“He was very dedicated and faithful. Ojuogboh was very dear to me. Ojuogboh played a leading role during former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

“We have lost a fantastic young man. We pray God to accept him and pray God to take care of the family he left behind.”

Also speaking, a former senator, Sen. Dino Melaye described the deceased as detribalised, very civil, principled and sociable.

“His relationship cut across political divide because Ojuogboh was one of the very few APC people that will have something to do and I will attend.

Similarly, Sen. Adams Oshiomhole (APC-Edo) said the deceased was a friend of all across party divide, a man for all and a very sociable and amiable person.

“To the family of our departed brother, you have every reason to be proud because he made good impact in the lives of many people.”

On his part, Sen. Seriake Dickson (PDP-Bayelsa) said that Ojuogboh was a very loyal man and faithful to friendship.

“He did his best within his short sojourn on earth. May God grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss.”

Also speaking, Justice Mabel Segun-Bello, a Judge of the Federal High Court, while giving a charge on legacy said that the late Ojuogboh was an accomplished person and was truly legacy conscious.

She said that legacy was a footprint that an individual leaves on earth after he or she is gone.

“At a point, he was involved in reconciliation and harmonisation activities. That is one of the legacies he left behind.

“Let his legacy be a prompter unto us to leave better legacy, legacies that will impact people of now and years to come.”

For Ojuogboh’s wife, Ruth, she said “I’m still in disbelief this is even happening and I struggle to find the words for the depth of loss that I feel.

“I find solace in the words of Ecclesiastes chapter three verses one and two…it reminds us that there is a time for everything. A time to be born and a time to die.”

She said: “My beloved husband lived a life marked by love, strength and unwavering faith. He was indeed a warrior who faced life challenges with courage and resilience.

“Though we mourn his loss, we rejoice in the assurance that he now rests in eternal peace.”

The late Ojuogboh was born on Sept. 8, 1959 in Agbor, Delta. Through out his illustrious career, Ojuogboh served in various political capacities, including Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

His transition to the All Progressives Congress (APC) further underscored his commitment to his principles and the advancement of his ideals.

Ojuogboh also played pivotal roles in the National Assembly as a member of the House of Representatives.

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