Kingsley Ohens reporting 

OGBONA, EDO STATE — Saturday, October 10, 2026

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has urged Nigerians, particularly public office holders and those in positions of authority, to embrace selflessness, serve humanity with sincerity and use their positions to make meaningful contributions to society.

Governor Okpebholo gave the charge during the funeral Mass of the late Chief Daniel Osikheme Orbih, Chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Ogbona, Edo State.

Speaking emotionally, the governor said the death of Chief Orbih had reinforced the transient nature of life and the importance of making a positive difference while alive.

Recalling his previous visit to the church to celebrate the deceased’s birthday, Okpebholo expressed sadness that he had returned to the same venue for his funeral, describing the occasion as a sobering reminder of life’s uncertainties.

“This is my second time coming to this church. The first time I came here was to celebrate with Chief Dan Osi Orbih. I said to him that we would be coming here in the next eight years to celebrate his birthday, but today we are here for a different purpose,” the governor said.

Reflecting on the reality of death, he noted that wealth, political positions and personal achievements could not alter the inevitable end of human life, urging Nigerians to prioritise service, compassion and the welfare of others.

The governor prayed for God’s comfort and strength for the bereaved family, asking the Almighty to grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.

He also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for standing by the family throughout the difficult period.

In his remarks, Wike described the death of Chief Orbih as a painful reminder of the inevitability of death and the enduring emotional cost of losing a close friend.

“When I saw the casket, it dawned on me that truly my friend and brother is gone. There is nothing we can do but to pray to God to give the family the fortitude to bear this great loss,” the minister said.

Wike thanked Governor Okpebholo for supporting the family and paying his last respects to the deceased at his residence in Benin City.

He also dismissed speculation about a possible disagreement between him and the governor, affirming that their relationship remained cordial.

“There is no problem between me and the governor. We are very close, we work together and we will continue to work together,” Wike stated.

Delivering the homily, the Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, urged the congregation to reflect on the fleeting nature of life and the certainty of death, regardless of an individual’s social standing or accomplishments.

The bishop observed that titles, academic qualifications, political positions and material achievements could not shield anyone from death when their time came.

He therefore encouraged the faithful to walk in truth and light, live purposeful lives and remain conscious of their responsibilities to God and humanity.

Bishop Dunia also recalled that Chief Orbih’s parents introduced him to the Catholic faith, noting that he was born, baptised and dedicated in the church.

“Death is what all must pay, and one cannot tell God to hold on because we are busy at the moment. We must be prepared to answer the call at any time,” he said.

Prominent dignitaries at the funeral included the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Jarrett Tenebe; his deputy, Sylvester Aigboboh; Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North Senatorial District; Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Yekini Idiaye; members of the state legislature; members of the Peoples Democratic Party’s National Working Committee; and members of the APC State Working Committee, among others.

The report was issued by Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, on Saturday, October 10, 2026.