The remains of former Edo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairman, Dan Orbih, have been taken to his hometown of Ogbonna in Etsako Central Local Government Area for burial.
Orbih’s body arrived at Benin Airport from Abuja, where Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, alongside family members, friends, political associates and government officials, received his remains before they were taken to his residence in Benin for a lying-in-state.
The late politician is expected to be buried on Sunday following a church service in his community.
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Speaking at his residence, Governor Okpebholo described Orbih’s death as a major loss to Edo State, saying their relationship went beyond politics.
“He was a brother. At times like this, when the loss is difficult to bear, we can only turn to God for comfort and strength,” the governor said.
He prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family and others mourning the deceased.
In his tribute, the officiating priest, Reverend Palmer Ikponmwosa, described Orbih as a towering figure in Edo politics, a master tactician, leader and kingmaker.
Political leaders who gathered to pay their respects also remembered him as a courageous politician who spoke truth to power.
A PDP chieftain, Mr Pascal Ugbome, said Orbih, a former chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, demonstrated how opposition politics could be conducted constructively and productively.
Ugbome noted that Orbih was willing to challenge even close associates when they occupied positions of authority and abused the trust placed in them.
Similarly, an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Mr Osagie Ize-Iyamu, described the deceased as a generous and compassionate man who positively affected many lives.
“I can only imagine how all those who benefited from his kindness must be feeling following his demise,” he said.
Among the dignitaries who attended the reception were Edo State Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa; Secretary to the State Government, Mr Umar Ikhilor; Edo APC Chairman Jarrett Tenebe; and former Senator representing Edo South, Matthew Urhoghide, amongst other dignitaries.
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