Ibori Mourns Ojougboh, Says He Was Courageous, Outspoken

Former Delta State Governor, Chief James Ibori, has described the late former member of the House of Representatives, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, as a committed grassroots leader “who lent a helping hand to everyone around him during his lifetime.”

Expressing shock at the passing of Ojougboh who reportedly slumped and died while watching the semi-final clash between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Bafana Bafana of South Africa on Wednesday, Ibori in a condolence message said, “I am devastated by the news of the death of Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, a very outspoken and courageous personality who served his community, Delta state and Nigeria well in different capacities during his lifetime.”

Ojougboh represented Ika Federal Constituency of Delta in the House of Representatives from 2003 to 2007 and also served as a former Executive Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Ibori disclosed that he crossed paths with Ojougboh while studying at the University of Benin.

“Years later, our friendship became solidified when we both worked together to advance the interests of Delta State both at the national and state levels. The late Ojougboh was elected into the National Assembly in 2003 while I was also sworn-in for a second term as governor.”

“In everything that he did, Cairo was exemplary,” he added.

“My thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones. I pray that God repose his soul and give his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” said Ibori.