Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has described the late former Deputy Governor, Benjamin Elue, as a humble and peace-loving leader whose legacy of service left a lasting impact on the state.
Elue, who served as deputy governor from 1999 to 2007, died on Saturday at the age of 85.
Speaking during a condolence visit to the Elue family residence in Obior, Aniocha North Local Government Area, Governor Oborevwori said the news of the elder statesman’s passing came as a rude shock.
Addressing the widow, Lady Esther Elue, children, and other family members, the governor revealed that the late former deputy governor had recently expressed readiness to attend an official engagement before his demise.
“His demise came to us as a rude shock. Only recently, he had indicated his availability to attend an official meeting, and we were all looking forward to his presence,” Oborevwori said.
The governor extolled Elue’s virtues, noting that he served Delta State with honour, dedication, and integrity. According to him, the late statesman’s life was defined not by material accumulation but by the positive impact he made.
“Chief Elue was a humble man and a great leader who served this state with honour, dedication and integrity. It is not the number of years one lives that matters, but the impact one makes and the legacy one leaves behind,” he added.
Oborevwori further noted that Elue related peacefully with his people and was admired for his simplicity and accessibility, describing him as a leader who never distanced himself from those around him.
The governor assured the family of the continued support of the state government, stressing that the loss was not only personal to the Elue family but a collective grief for the people of Aniocha North and the entire state.
“This is a great loss, not just to the Elue family, but to the people of Aniocha North and to Delta State as a whole. We will remember him for his service, his humility and his peaceful life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you,” he said.
In a condolence message entered in the register, Oborevwori wrote that the state was saddened by the passing of the former deputy governor and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Responding on behalf of the family, Mr. Paul Oseji expressed appreciation to the governor, the Delta State Government, and sympathisers for their support and solidarity during the period of mourning.
Elue served with distinction as Deputy Governor under former Governor James Onanefe Ibori between 1999 and 2007, and is widely remembered for his humility, unwavering commitment to service, and devotion to peace.
