By

Abdul-Kadir Abdullah

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has described the late Chief Dan Orbih as a brother rather than merely a political associate, expressing grief over his death and praying to God to grant the bereaved family the strength to bear the loss.

Okpebholo spoke on Friday while receiving the remains of 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, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq, received the remains at about 9:55 a.m. and subsequently led family members, friends, political associates and government officials from the airport to his residence in Benin City for the lying-in-state ceremony.

Describing Orbih’s death as a great loss to Edo State, Okpebholo said the deceased was more than a political associate to him, emphasising the personal bond they shared.

“He was a brother,” the governor said.

“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 said.

In his tribute, the officiating priest, Rev. Fr. Palmer Ikponmwosa, described Orbih as a colossus of Edo politics, a master tactician, leader and kingmaker.

Other political leaders at the residence remembered the late politician as a man who spoke truth to power whenever the opportunity arose.

A PDP chieftain, Mr Pascal Ugbome, said Orbih demonstrated how opposition politics could be played in a manner that was beautiful, meaningful and productive.

According to Ugbome, the deceased had the courage to challenge even his closest friends when they occupied positions of authority and abused or misused the opportunities entrusted to them.

Also speaking, an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, described Orbih as a generous and compassionate 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,” he said.

Dignitaries who attended the reception of the remains at the airport included Edo State Deputy Governor, RT Hon Dennis Idahosa; Edo APC Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe; and former senator representing Edo South Senatorial District, Hon Matthew Urhoghide.

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