Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has condoled with the Anglican Bishop of Oleh Diocese, Rt. Rev’d John Aruakpor, and the entire Aruakpor family over the death of their matriarch, Mama Ruth Aruakpor, describing her passing as the culmination of a fulfilled and impactful life devoted to God, family and humanity.
Gov. Oborevwori spoke on Saturday during the funeral service of the late nonagenarian at Saint Michael’s Anglican Church, Emevor, in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, where he urged the bereaved family to remain grateful to God for her enduring legacy and exemplary life.
Mama Ruth Aruakpor, who passed away on April 15, 2026, at the age of 92, was remembered as a devoted Christian, faithful church worker and caring mother whose life positively impacted her family, church and community.
Speaking during the service, Gov. Oborevwori acknowledged the pain associated with losing a mother, noting that a mother’s love, guidance and prayers remain invaluable regardless of one’s age.
“We are gathered here today with heavy hearts, but also with gratitude to God for the life that our mother lived. Losing a mother is never easy, no matter how old we are, but we can thank God for the beautiful life she lived and the many people she touched in her lifetime,” the governor said.
He stressed that the true measure of success lies not in longevity but in the positive legacy a person leaves behind, adding that Mama Aruakpor’s exemplary life was reflected in the accomplishments of her children and the many lives she touched.
“One of the clearest signs of a life well lived is the legacy a person leaves behind. Mama’s legacy can be seen in her children and in the many lives she touched throughout her lifetime,” he stated.
Drawing inspiration from 2 Timothy 4:7, Governor Oborevwori said the late matriarch’s life mirrored the Apostle Paul’s declaration: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”
He described her earthly journey as successful and fulfilled, noting that her steadfast faith, dedication to her family and commitment to God’s service would continue to inspire future generations.
The governor urged family members and mourners to draw comfort from God’s word and celebrate the deceased’s accomplishments rather than be overwhelmed by grief.
“Today is not only a day of mourning; it is also a day of thanksgiving. We must appreciate God for granting her a long, fruitful and impactful life,” he said.
Gov. Oborevwori extended his condolences to the children, grandchildren and the entire family and prayed for God to grant them comfort and the strength to uphold the values and virtues for which their late mother was known.
In his sermon titled, “Christ Is Coming Quickly,” the Archbishop of the Bendel Ecclesiastical Province of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev’d Cyril Odutemu, charged Christians to remain steadfast in faith and live righteous lives in anticipation of the second coming of Jesus Christ.
Preaching from Revelation 22:12-13, Archbishop Odutemu reminded the congregation that Christ’s return is certain and could occur at any time.
Quoting the words of Jesus, “Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work,” he emphasized that believers would be rewarded according to their deeds.
He urged Christians to use their time on earth to serve God faithfully, demonstrate love toward others and maintain integrity in all their dealings, stressing that earthly possessions and achievements are temporary, while a relationship with God endures forever.
Archbishop Odutemu therefore called on believers to focus on eternal values and remain prepared for the coming of the Lord, who will return with rewards for those who remain faithful to the end.
