Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Friday received the remains of Chief Dan Orbih, describing the late Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain as a brother whose death represents a great loss to the state.
The governor received Orbih’s remains at the Benin Airport at about 9:55 a.m., accompanied by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Umar Ikhilor.
He later led family members, friends, political associates and government officials from the airport to his residence in Benin City for the lying-in-state ceremony.
Speaking at his residence, Okpebholo expressed grief over Orbih’s death, noting that their relationship went beyond politics.
“He was a brother,” the governor said.
He prayed to God to grant the deceased’s family, friends and associates the strength and courage to cope with the painful loss.
“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, a leader and a kingmaker whose influence left a mark on the state’s political landscape.
Other political leaders at the residence remembered the late politician as a courageous figure who was never afraid to speak truth to power, regardless of the individuals involved.
A PDP chieftain, Mr Pascal Ugbome, said Orbih demonstrated how opposition politics could be played constructively, making it meaningful, productive and beneficial to the democratic process.
According to Ugbome, Orbih was bold enough to challenge even his closest associates whenever they occupied positions of authority and abused or misused the responsibilities entrusted to them.
Also paying tribute, an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, described the deceased as a generous and compassionate man who extended help to many people during his lifetime.
“I can only imagine how all those who benefited from his kindness must be feeling following his demise,” Ize-Iyamu said.
Orbih, a prominent PDP chieftain and former chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, was widely recognised for his role in Edo State politics.
Among the dignitaries who attended the reception of his remains at the Benin Airport were Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, Edo APC Chairman Jarrett Tenebe and former senator representing Edo South Senatorial District, Matthew Urhoghide.
Others included former member of the House of Representatives, Samson Osaigie, and Edo APC Deputy Chairman Sylvester Aigboboh, alongside other political associates and government officials.
The tributes from political figures across party lines highlighted Orbih’s influence, personal relationships and contributions to the political life of Edo State.
