A Former Minister of State for Works, Engr. Chris Ogiemwonyi has mourn the passing away of Chief David Edebiri, Esogban of Benin kingdom.
Ogiemwonyi in his condolences message, described Chief Edebiri as a prominent Orator, Writer, Activist, Journalist and freedom fighter.
See press release below
CONDOLENCE MESSAGE TO THE FAMILY OF CHIEF D. U. EDEBIRI, ESOGBAN OF BENIN KINGDOM; Ọdionwere ẹdohia.
I must confess that the sad news of the passing of the Esogban of Benin Kingdom shocked me.
Alas! The magnificent Iroko has fallen and we mourn; and in the entire Benin Kingdom, sadness pervades the land.
Chief Edebiri, the Esogban of Benin, has inspired me and my family since I met him. This is for his fatherly advice and counsel, especially as Managing Director of the Nigeria Petroleum Development Company (NPDC).
He was an outstanding WOBITE; Alumni of Western Boys High School, Benin City. In 2013, at 83, he led our Benin Chapter to New York for our reunion. He was very passionate about WOBA issues. They were a tonic for daddy.
The demise of our revered Esogban however reminds me that life is transient and we are but sojourners here on Earth, as it is natural for the soul to return to its maker. The memories of our deeds here on earth remind people of our antecedents, once we leave.
Chief D. U. Edebiri, the Ọdionwere ẹdohia), lived a glorious and eventful life, making history, like his forbearer who was also a High Chief title holder, Esama of Benin in his time.
As a prominent Orator, Writer, Activist, Journalist and freedom fighter, Chief Edebiri was on the front line in the fight for Nigeria’s independence. He played an active role as a youth mobilizer in the struggle.
The Esogban of Benin was a very significant Chief at the Palace of the Oba of Benin. He was a custodian of the Benin Race’s Culture and Tradition. He was an embodiment of knowledge, wisdom and an encyclopedia of historical antecedents of Edo State from the beginning as a Midwest region till date. He documented most of his experiences in different books he authored. We will miss him greatly.
My heart goes out to the family. I feel your loss, our loss, because Chief D. U. Edebiri was a father to us all. I encourage you to take heart knowing that no one lives forever and the fact that he lived a fulfilled life leaving behind remarkable legacies, proud and wonderful children, grand children and great grand children.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during your loss. In the bosom of our Lord God, I pray for his soul’s repose. May God grant you the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss! Rest in Peace Ọdionwere edohia!
Signed:
Engr. Chris Osa Ogiemwonyi, FNSE.
Former Minister of State for Works.
