GOV OKPEBHOLO PAYS CONDOLENCE VISIT, ASSURES FAMILY OF LATE SPECIAL ADVISER OF CONTINUED GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

Kingsley Ohens reporting

Benin City, Edo State – Friday, 16 January 2026

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has assured the family of his late Special Adviser on Arewa Matters, Alhaji Danjuma Garba, of the state government’s continued support, pledging to sustain and preserve the legacy of the deceased.

Governor Okpebholo gave the assurance during a condolence visit to the family of the late adviser in Benin City, describing Alhaji Garba as a committed, selfless, and passionate public servant who worked tirelessly for the peace, unity, and development of Edo State.

According to the governor, the late Special Adviser played a unifying role that went beyond the Arewa Community, noting that his contributions were felt across the state.

“Late Alhaji Danjuma Garba has left very big shoes behind. He was not only for the Arewa Community but for all Edo people. His dedication and passion for the development of Edo State informed my decision to appoint him as Special Adviser on Arewa Matters,” the governor said.

Governor Okpebholo described the death as a great loss, adding that the vacuum left by the late adviser would be difficult to fill.

“Only Allah gives and takes life. We may not understand why Allah called him home at this time, but we believe there is a divine purpose,” he added.

In further demonstration of the government’s support, the governor assured the family that the education of the children left behind by the late Alhaji Garba would be fully supported.

“We will ensure that the children he left behind continue their education without interruption,” Governor Okpebholo stated.

Speaking on behalf of the family and the Arewa Community in Edo State, the Chairman of the Arewa Community, Alhaji Badamasi Saleh, expressed gratitude to the governor for the compassion and support shown during the period of mourning.

He commended Governor Okpebholo for fostering inclusiveness and harmony, describing him as the first governor of the state to demonstrate such profound concern for the Arewa Community.

“You are the first governor of Edo State to show this level of love to the Arewa Community. We are ready to support your administration and surpass the achievements recorded so far. Anytime you call on us, we will respond,” he said.

Alhaji Saleh also appealed to the governor to assist the family in the education of the late Special Adviser’s children, a request the governor promptly assured would be addressed.