Death of Iyase of Asaba, Great Loss to Delta, Says Oborevwori

Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has commiserated with the Onyeobi family and people of Asaba over the passing of the Iyase of Asaba, Chief Patrick I.G. Onyeobi, saying that he would be greatly missed across the state and Nigeria at large.

Onyeobi, who died at 90, was a former Secretary to Government and Head of the Civil Service of the defunct Bendel State.

Until his passing, he was the Diokpa (Eldest-man) of Idumuojei village, Umuezei Quarters of Asaba and held the prestigious title of Iyase, the traditional prime minister of Asaba Kingdom.

In the condolence message by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba, Governor Oborevwori expressed sadness over the departure of Onyeobi despite attaining the ripe age of 90.

Oborevwori said, “The passing of Chief Patrick Onyeobi is a big blow to his family, Idumuojei village, the people of Asaba and Delta State, considering his immense contributions to the traditional institution in the state capital.

“Late Onyeobi was a fine gentleman, model administrator and community leader with impeccable leadership qualities, who contributed to the growth and development of his community and the state.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of an astute administrator and community leader of immense repute, Chief Patrick Onyeobi.

“Chief Onyeobi was astutely dedicated to cause of helping others and his many and extraordinary life achievements, distinguished him as a wonderful mentor and role model, whose works will continue to motivate the next generation.

“Onyeobi’s enduring imprints on the sands of time will remain a powerful symbol of Asaba’s traditional institution.

“It is indeed the end of an era for a man whose name reverberated across the length and breadth of the defunct Bendel State and Nigeria as a whole.”