BENIN CITY- Encomiums rained endlessly yesterday as the two time governor of old Midwest and Bendel State, General Samuel Ogbemudia marked his 83rd birthday anniversary in Benin City.
The ceremony was well attended by political gladiators, business associates, captains of industries as well as families and well wishers.
In his exhortation during the breakfast prayer session, the officiating minister, Bishop Aigbe Davis, said the celebrant has every reason to appreciate God at 83, Judging by what God Almighty has done in his life.
Bishop Davis who harped on the need for all to always acknowledge God in their life, said it was unfortunate that many no longer see the need to always return thanks in appreciation for what God has done in their lives.
While noting that the history of Nigeria is not complete without Dr. Ogbemudia’s contribution, he said that the celebrant brought honour and glory to the south south geographical zone of the country.
He described Dr. Ogbemudia as a humane, and humble man who have disliked oppression, adding that his impact on the lives of the people in the South -South Zone while can not be overemphasized.
The officiating Minister charged the present crop of leadership to emulate the visionary leadership of Dr. Ogbemudia who he said laid the foundation on which the past and present administration were building upon.
He, said “many governors today travel abroad and come back with nothing to show, but Dr. Ogbemudia would travel abroad and bring back his experience to bear in the lives of the people.
While Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu described Dr. Ogbemudia as an enigma who has a lot of leadership quality to bequeath on the younger generations, Francis Inegbineki described him as a mentor who lived his life for the people of the state and the nation at large.
The celebrant Dr. Ogbemudia who expressed gratitude to God for making him feel the way he feels at 83 viewed as his greatest joy his effort towards uniting a divided nation for the benefits/interest of the present generation.
He however, advised the younger generation to continue to support government in view of achieving its objectives, adding that the idea of constantly fighting government was a waste.
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION: L-R: Dr. Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia, Chief Francis Inegbineki, APC leader in Edo State and Mrs. Yetunde Ogbemudia at the 83rd Birthday celebration in Benin City yesterday. Photo: LUCKY AGIE.
