The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late former Deputy Governor, Chief Benjamin Elue, describing him as a humble, peace-loving leader whose life of service and integrity left an enduring mark on the state.
Chief Elue, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 85, was remembered by Governor Oborevwori as a man of remarkable humility and dedication.
Speaking at the late statesman’s country home in Obior, the governor expressed profound shock at the passing, noting that Chief Elue had recently indicated his readiness to attend an official engagement before his sudden demise.
“His passing came as a rude shock. Only recently, he had confirmed his availability for an official meeting, and we were all looking forward to his presence,” the governor said.
Governor Oborevwori lauded Chief Elue’s exemplary service, noting that his life was defined not by material accumulation but by the positive impact he made on the people and institutions of Delta State.
“Chief Elue was a humble man and a great leader who served this state with honour, dedication, and integrity.
“It is not the number of years one lives that matters, but the impact one makes and the legacy one leaves behind,” he said.
He further emphasized the late deputy governor’s peaceful nature and accessibility, recalling that Chief Elue lived harmoniously among his people and interacted with others with simplicity and grace.
“He was not the kind of leader who distanced himself from others or made life difficult for those around him.
His humility and peaceful disposition endeared him to all,” Governor Oborevwori noted.
Assuring the Elue family of the Delta State Government’s support, the governor said the loss was felt not only by the family but by the entire state.
“This is a great loss, not just to the Elue family, but to the people of Aniocha North and to Delta State as a whole. We will remember him for his service, his humility, and his peaceful life.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, and we stand firmly with you in this moment of profound grief,” he said.
In the condolence register, Governor Oborevwori wrote: “We are saddened by the passing of His Excellency, Diokpa BSC Elue.
He served Delta State with honour and integrity. Our prayers and thoughts are with the family during this period of mourning. Rest in peace, Alum.”
Responding on behalf of the family, Mr. Paul Oseji expressed gratitude to the governor, the Delta State Government, and sympathizers for their overwhelming support.
“I speak on behalf of the B. S. Elue family and the extended Elue dynasty sincerely thank the Governor, the people of Aniocha North, friends and associates near and far, and the good people of Delta State for standing with us during this difficult time.
Since Saturday, this house has truly become a centre of love and solidarity,” he said, appealing for continued prayers as the family navigates its mourning.
Chief Benjamin Elue served Delta State with distinction as Deputy Governor during Governor James Onanefe Ibori’s administration from 1999 to 2007.
He is fondly remembered as an accomplished statesman whose life and public service were hallmarked by humility, unwavering commitment, and a devotion to peace.
