Okpebholo Receives Dan Orbih’s Remains, Mourns ‘Brother’


BENIN CITY — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Friday received the remains of Chief Dan Orbih, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former Chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, at the Benin Airport.

The governor, accompanied by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Umar Ikhilor, received the remains at about 9:55 a.m. before leading family members, friends, political associates and government officials to the deceased’s residence in Benin City for the lying-in-state ceremony.

Describing Orbih’s death as a painful loss to Edo State, Okpebholo said the late politician was more than a political associate, describing him as a brother.

“He was a brother,” the governor said, as he called on God to grant the bereaved family and others mourning the deceased the strength to endure the loss.

“At times like this, when the loss is difficult to bear, we can only turn to God for comfort and strength.

“I pray that God will give us all the courage and fortitude to bear this great loss. I also pray that God will protect the family, strengthen them during this difficult period and provide them with the grace to carry on,” he added.

In his tribute, the officiating priest, Rev. Fr. Palmer Ikponmwosa, described Orbih as a colossus of Edo politics, a master tactician, leader and kingmaker whose influence left a mark on the state's political landscape.

Other political leaders at the residence remembered the late politician as a principled figure who was never afraid to speak truth to power, regardless of the political relationships involved.

A PDP chieftain, Mr Pascal Ugbome, said Orbih demonstrated how opposition politics could be played with courage, purpose and responsibility.

According to Ugbome, the late politician was bold enough to challenge even his closest associates whenever they occupied positions of authority and abused or misused the trust placed in them.

Also paying tribute, an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, described Orbih as a compassionate and generous man who extended help to many people.

“I can only imagine how all those who benefited from his kindness must be feeling following his demise,” Ize-Iyamu said.

The reception of the remains at the airport attracted several political leaders and government officials, including Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa; Edo APC Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe; and former senator representing Edo South Senatorial District, Matthew Urhoghide.

Others included former member of the House of Representatives, Samson Osaigie, and Edo APC Deputy Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh, among other dignitaries.

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