Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has felicitated with the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, on the occasion of his 70th birthday anniversary, described his reign as one characterized by peace, humility, and purposeful leadership.
Speaking on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at a special thanksgiving Mass held at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church, West-End, Asaba, to commemorate the royal father’s platinum jubilee, Governor Oborevwori extolled the monarch’s life as a shining example of wisdom, integrity, and service to humanity.
According to the Governor, it was fitting that the revered traditional ruler returned thanks to God for His grace and faithfulness, having attained the biblical age of three score and ten in sound health and strength.
“I am truly delighted to be part of this celebration because it is important that when God elevates you to a certain height in life, you return to appreciate Him,” Oborevwori said.
“This thanksgiving is not just a birthday ceremony, it is an expression of gratitude for seventy years of divine mercy, strength, and grace.”
The Governor praised the Asagba’s exemplary leadership, noting that his reign has brought peace, stability, and development to Asaba and its people.
“Your Majesty, your life is a living testimony of wisdom,” he remarked. “From the classroom to the throne, you have consistently demonstrated excellence, honesty, and service.
“As a lawyer and academic, you helped shape minds and institutions across Nigeria and beyond. As a royal father, you have guided your people with humility and vision, fostering unity and progress in Asaba and Delta State.”
Governor Oborevwori also commended the Asagba for his unwavering support to the state government and his remarkable devotion to duty.
“There is no invitation too small for His Majesty to honour,” he observed. “He attends events even at short notice, his humility and commitment inspire us all. I celebrate you not only as a traditional ruler but as a symbol of purpose-driven leadership and selfless service to humanity.”
Quoting Proverbs 16:31, the Governor described the monarch’s gray hair as “a crown of glory gained through a righteous life,” and prayed that God would continue to bless him with strength, wisdom, and long life.
He also expressed appreciation to Her Majesty, the Asagba’s wife, for her steadfast support, noting, “Your wife has stood by you faithfully. I have known her for many years and must commend her for being a pillar of strength in your journey of service to God and humanity.”
Governor Oborevwori further lauded the people of Asaba Kingdom for their unwavering loyalty and cooperation with their monarch, which he said had contributed to the peace and progress enjoyed in the community.
“To the good people of Asaba Kingdom, I say thank you for your continued support and solidarity with your monarch,” he said.
“Your Majesty, happy 70th birthday. May the years ahead bring you even greater joy, peace, and fulfillment.”
Earlier in his homily, the Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, described the occasion as a moment of gratitude and reflection on a life well spent in the service of God and humanity.
Drawing from Psalm 90, the Cardinal noted that the age of seventy marks a significant milestone, a time to look back with thanksgiving and forward with renewed faith.
He praised the Asagba for his enduring faith, compassion, and leadership, describing him as “a true monarch who has served God and humanity with love, integrity, and humility.”
