BY BERNADETTE IDALU
BENIN CITY — Hon. Dennis Idahosa has eulogized the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, on his 91st birthday, describing him as a father, investor, and employer of labour whose life has impacted Edo people, Ovia Federal Constituency, and Okada in Ovia North-East.
Speaking on behalf of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Idahosa hailed the Esama as a colossus who had positively touched many lives.
Addressing journalists shortly after the Morning Dew “Crown of Glory” Interdenominational Service at God’s Historic Chapel, Okada Avenue, Benin City, Idahosa said, “The Esama is a father to us, an elder statesman, and an enigma who has brought development to Edo State, Ovia Federal Constituency, and Okada.”
Speaking personally, he added, “We are here to celebrate a father who has helped to develop Edo. He has created job opportunities for our youths. In every generation, God blesses us with a man like this, and I am glad to witness it in mine.”
Idahosa prayed for the celebrant’s continued sound health and wished him the best in life.
The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, also praised the Esama, describing the annual birthday celebration as one eagerly anticipated by many.
The guest preacher, Rev. Dr. Thomas Abiodun Adeleke, in his sermon themed “Celebrating for Greater Fruitfulness,” prayed for the Esama’s longevity and vitality. Drawing from Acts 13:36, Psalm 92:12-15, Psalm 67:5-7, John 15:4-5, and Mark 10:7, he urged guests to embrace God’s praise, missionary work, and support for gospel propagation and medical research.
Guests were treated to hymns, Christian music renditions, and special ministrations by choirs and chorale groups. A spirited performance by Pastor Margaret Agbonifo had attendees dancing.
The service drew international guests, royal fathers, clergy, friends, and relatives who gathered to honour the Esama on his milestone celebration.
