More Tributes as IBEDC, Odubu, Others Mourn Okunbo

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan and Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) Plc has mourned what it described the untimely passing of its esteemed investor and pioneer Director, Captain Dr. Idahosa Wells Okunbo, died on August 8,2021, in the United Kingdom at the age of 63 years.

A statement signed by the Chairman of the Board of Directors of IBEDC, Mr. Olatunde Ayeni, on behalf of board, management and staff, and made available to THISDAY, yesterday, noted that, late Okunbo with his sagacious business acumen was extremely pivotal to the establishment of IBEDC and was very involved in piloting the smooth growth of the company to the enviable heights it has achieved.

“His chain of businesses spanned across the gamut of hospitality, security, real estate, oil servicing, and agriculture. A renowned and accomplished business mogul, who contributed immensely to the development of the Nigerian economy by providing jobs and substance to thousands of his fellow country-men and women through his diverse and extensive businesses.

“We have lost a distinguished Nigerian, an illustrious businessman with a heart of gold,” he said.

Ayeni while describing Capt. Okunbo as one of Nigeria’s most outstanding philanthropist, said his death has created a huge vacuum that would be difficult to fill.

Meanwhile, in a condolence register opened in the residence of Okunbo, No 38, Aiguobansimwin Crescent, GRA Benin City, many visitors were seen paying their respect.

The former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dr. Pius Odubu, in the condolence register, said “Captain Hosa was a rare gem, an achiever and a record setter with a heart of gold. He saw it all and did it all. In the air he soared like an eagle, on the sea, he sailed effortlessly and while on land he was as steady as the rock of Gibraltar. A Consummate businessman and a philanthropist par excellence, he impacted all that came his way positively. If there is any soul that aptly epitomises the saying that “it is well with my soul”, it is the soul of Captain Hosa.

“The Benin race, Edo People and indeed Nigerians have lost a rare gem.”

On his part, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2020 governorship election, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu shared his conversation with Okunbo shortly after he was diagnosed of cancer.

In a tribute titled where is captain? Ize-Iyamu wrote: “The success of captain lies in his upward look. While others look downward and lament problems, he looks up and provide solutions.

“Who was captain looking up to? The answer is God. Captain believed so much in God that he would spend hours worshipping him. His good works and love for people was borne out of his unwavering love for God. He built churches and supported those working for God. He would frequently tell his friends that if not for God, where would he have been? He devoted time to seeking the face of God especially in handling complex issues.

“Though he had an abundance of material possessions, his focus was not earthly but how to make heaven.

“When his illness was diagnosed captain told me- “Osagie, I am not afraid of death. God loves me so much that he told me ahead when I will die giving me the unique opportunity to put my house in order. Captain, brother, leader and friend congratulations on a triumphant exit. We feel the pain but acknowledge that our time is limited and you have played your part and excelled in flying colours. You are in a better place.”

Also, the member representing Oredo Federal Constituency, Hon Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama wrote: “My leader my master, I am happy you had time to make peace with your God. Enjoy heaven.”

Similarly, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Paschal Ugbome said: “A good man out, a great man has gone to be with our Lord. Rest in peace Baba, the captain of all hemispheres, we shall meet again at the resurrection morning.”

Also, prominent property magnate and philanthropist, Princess Rosula Osula Mku-Atu has commiserated with the family of Okunbo.

She also extended her heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Edo State on the painful passing of their illustrious son, as well as the business community, Okunbo’s friends, associates and well-wishers.

In a condolence message released by her media office, Mku-Atu, who recently bagged the Vanguard Woman Entrepreneur of the Year award, said Okunbo’s death had left a huge gap which will be difficult to fill. She described him as an accomplished business icon who devoted his wealth to the advancement of the welfare of others, instead of pursuing conspicuous consumption in a society overwhelmed by poverty. She added that Okunbo’s edifying role in the business sec­tor in Nigeria and beyond, would con­tinue to inspire generations to come.

She noted that while standing firmly for the unity of the country, Okunbo also catered and fought for the interest of Nigerians, and people of Edo State in particular.

She affirmed that the late business mogul loved people and served his country and humanity with all the resources God had placed at his disposal. She pointed out that the multiple national and international awards and recognitions he received were well deserved.

Mku-Atu, a successful businesswoman from the Bini royal family, hailed Okunbo’s selfless commitment to humanitarian causes, as demonstrated in his offering succour to those in need and uplifting of people’s welfare.

“Captain Hosa touched the lives of many people. He was an extraordinary philanthropist, who loved people without reservation, and he was, in return, loved by so many. That is why there is palpable grief all over country. He will be remembered for inspiring people, impacting their lives and redefining the value of philanthropy in Nigeria,” she said.