A former Military Governor of old Midwest Region and later Executive Governor of Bendel State, Dr. Samuel Ogbemudia has passed away.
He died on Thursday at about 11pm at the age of 84.
Eminent Edo people mourn Ogbemudia
An Edo State lawyer, Barrister Jefferson Uwoghiren mourned Ogbemudia, describing him as a great and uncommon leader.
Uwoghiren said “This morning I celebrate the life of a great and uncommon leader who epitomized the saying that the men who build the future are those who know that greater things are yet to come, and that they themselves will help bring them about. Gen. Dr. Osaigbovo Ogbemudia,in spite of the ingratitude of his followers,inappreciation of the public,the disgust,discouragement and denouncement of his people,chose right with invincible resolution,sorest temptations from within and without,organized menaces and frowns; engaged and transformed his environment and City-State from what it is into what it ought to be.With nothing,but sweat,tears and blood Ogbemudia changed our lives and cities .
“We shall remember him for the usefulness of what he achieved and the sweep of his great endeavors. Epa Okhiowie. Daddy Okhioedehia. Leader Urere. Okhien Ewere,Osaigbovo no obvie Ogbemudia Erha Midwest! Akenzua vbe Iyare, Erediauwa vbe iyare , Ewuare vbe iyare, Edo vbe iyare. Iviegbemwewa!!!!”
Hon. Samson Osagie, a former Minority Whip who represented Orhionmwon/Uhunhmode Local Government ARea in the House of Representatives, National Assembly also paid tributes to the late icon.
In his message he described him as a lover of education who development in old midwest region is yet to be surpassed by all who came after him.
He added “He was a lover of education who helped so many people through tertiary and secondary education. He it was who founded the Midwest Institute of Technology now University of Benin.
“He was a lover of sports as well. Dr. S. O. Ogbemudia was the quintessential leader of his people even though on several occasions he was betrayed on the altar of political exigencies by politicians.
“He admires brilliance and excellence and never hid his passion for lofty ideas. He raised so many young men and women into politics one of whom is yours truly. He was a father to all and commanded respect from across the nation.
“He never shied away from taking positions on matters affecting his state and the nation at large. He indeed exemplified a rare intellectual fountain from which many drew their inspiration from. He was criticized by many a people for varied reasons but that did not remove his exceptional leadership qualities he was endowed with. As he joins his forebears, the Edo people nay Nigeria has lost a rare gem, a patriot who fought with his boss General Yakubu Gowon to keep Nigeria one, a leader whose footprints are still indelible, a colossus who inspite of his humble background rose to the pinnacle of success, an epitome of humility and brilliance, an exceptional military officer whose training in incendiary empowered him to protect his people,an irreplaceable father to many of us.
Thanks to Comrade Adams Oshiomhole who celebrated this great icon at his last birthday and naming New Era College after him. Thanks to former Governor Lucky Igbinedion who named Ogbe Stadium after him. He however deserves more than that. I urge the 8th National Assembly to name the great University of Benin as Samuel Osaigbovo University.
“On behalf of my family, I wish Baba Ogbemudia farewell and may the good Lord continue to comfort his family.
Samuel Ogbemudia Jr. and all his children accept my sincere condolences. ”
