Okpebholo Receives Remains Of PDP Chieftain Dan Orbih In Benin As Edo Mourns

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Friday received the remains of Chief Dan Orbih, a prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and former chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, at the Benin Airport.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the remains arrived at approximately 9:55 a.m., with Governor Okpebholo accompanied by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Umar Ikhilor, to receive the late politician.

Following the arrival, the governor led family members, friends, political associates and government officials from the airport to his residence in Benin, where a lying-in-state ceremony was held in honour of the deceased.

Speaking during the ceremony, Okpebholo described Orbih’s death as a significant loss to Edo State, revealing that their relationship extended beyond politics.

“He was a brother,” the governor said.

He expressed sadness over the loss and urged those affected by Orbih’s death to seek comfort and strength from God during the difficult period.

“At times like this, when the loss is difficult to bear, we can only turn to God for comfort and strength,” he stated.

The governor also prayed for God to grant the deceased’s family the courage to endure their grief, protect them and give them the strength to move forward.

In his tribute, the officiating priest, Rev. Fr. Palmer Ikponmwosa, described Orbih as a towering figure in Edo politics, praising his leadership qualities, political experience and influence.

Other political figures at the ceremony remembered the late politician as a courageous individual who was willing to speak truth to power, regardless of the person involved.

A PDP chieftain, Mr Pascal Ugbome, said Orbih demonstrated how opposition politics could be conducted in a constructive and meaningful manner. He noted that the deceased was unafraid to challenge even close associates when they occupied positions of authority and allegedly abused the responsibilities entrusted to them.

Ugbome’s tribute highlighted Orbih’s commitment to accountability and his willingness to hold political leaders responsible for their actions.

Similarly, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), described the late politician as a generous and compassionate man whose kindness had positively affected many people.

“I can only imagine how all those who benefited from his kindness must be feeling following his demise,” Ize-Iyamu said.

Several political leaders and government officials attended the reception of Orbih’s remains at the airport, including Edo State Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, Edo APC Chairman Jarrett Tenebe and former senator representing Edo South Senatorial District, Matthew Urhoghide.

Others present included former House of Representatives member Samson Osaigie and Edo APC Deputy Chairman Sylvester Aigboboh, alongside other dignitaries.

The tributes reflected the late politician’s influence across political divides, as family members, friends and associates gathered to honour his memory and reflect on his contributions to Edo State’s political landscape.