By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Wednesday led top government officials and leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on a condolence visit to the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, over the death of his mother, late Mrs. Esther Imaguomwanruo Idahosa.
The Governor, who was accompanied by former Governor of Edo State and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole; State Chairman of the APC, Jarrett Tenebe; Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor Esq.; Deputy State Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh; Secretary of the party, Lawrence Okah; serving commissioners, top government officials and party leaders, described the deceased as a woman who lived a fulfilled life.
Governor Okpebholo, while consoling the Deputy Governor and his family, thanked God for the life of the departed matriarch, noting that death is inevitable and a debt all must pay.
The Governor said, "Your mother has lived a good and fulfilled life, and for her to have successful children like you, it shows that she lived well. Death is indispensable; it is a debt that all must pay. Only God can console your family,”
He assured the Deputy Governor of the prayers and support of the government and people of Edo State, adding that the vacuum created by her passing would be deeply felt.
He said, “Her death has left a vacuum in your life and that of the family. We pray that God grants you the fortitude to bear the loss. We will continue to pray for you at this difficult time because she meant so much to you, as you always spoke about her,”
Speaking during the visit, former Governor Adams Oshiomhole said the late Mrs. Idahosa was not only a mother to the Deputy Governor but a mother figure to many within the party and the state.
“I am here in the entourage of the Governor to pay this condolence visit for the passing of our mother. I know how you feel because you were very close to her, and her departure will be greatly felt.
“She is not only your mother but a mother to all of us in the party and the State. I urge you and your family, as Christians, to mourn like believers and thank God that you are the ones to bury her.
“You must be strong and thank God she saw you grow and become someone great in society. She must have felt fulfilled. May God Almighty comfort you all and grant you the fortitude to bear the loss,” Oshiomhole said.
Responding on behalf of the family, the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, expressed appreciation to the Governor and his entourage for the condolence visit, which came less than 24 hours after the passing of his mother.
“I appreciate you and your entourage. Despite your busy schedule, you made time to visit us. This visit, coming the same day the matriarch of the family passed on, shows your love for the family.
“I kept you informed about my mother’s situation, praying she would recover, but unfortunately, she didn’t. We will continue to meet as a family and, in the coming days, come up with burial arrangements which will be communicated to you and the leadership of the party,” he said.
The Deputy Governor also commended Governor Okpebholo for his support and guidance, describing him as a leader whose counsel has been invaluable to his political journey.
“You are my boss, my principal, and now a senior brother as you have shown through your actions. I consult you when making critical decisions, and your advice has been very helpful.
“My mother lived a fulfilled life. She prayed for us, and today her son is the Deputy Governor of Edo State. We appreciate you and thank you for standing by us at this difficult time,” he added.
