Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has described the deaths of former Senator and political leader, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, and elder statesman, industrialist and community leader, Chief Emmanuel Nuel Ojei, as profound losses that have created deep voids in Delta State, particularly in Delta North, Oshimili North and Aniocha North Local Government Areas.
The governor made the remarks on Monday during separate condolence visits to the families of the deceased, where he paid glowing tributes to their lives of service, describing them as bold, principled and selfless leaders whose contributions to the state would be difficult to replace.
During his visit to the family of the late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, fondly known as “The Oracle,” Governor Oborevwori said the former lawmaker’s death came as a rude shock, noting that they had spoken only a few days before his passing.
“I received the sad news with rude shock because I spoke with him just a few days earlier. We discussed some development issues. I never imagined he would leave us so soon,” the governor said.
He described Senator Nwaoboshi as a courageous and outspoken leader who stood firmly by his convictions, noting that such forthright leadership was increasingly rare.
“If he was with you, he was fully with you; if not, he would tell you plainly. People like him are very few,” Oborevwori stated.
The governor recalled their long-standing relationship dating back to 2006, during the agitation for equity and power rotation in Delta State, particularly the push for Delta North to produce a governor.
“He was very courageous as a party chairman and a strong voice for equity. Once he believed in a cause, you could not slow him down,” he said.
Oborevwori added that he was consoled by the fact that some long-standing issues dear to the late senator, including the Guinea House matter, were resolved before his death.
“It is not about how long one lives but the impact one makes. Senator Nwaoboshi made tremendous impact, raised people and served the state with passion. There is truly a big vacuum in Delta North,” the governor noted.
He extended his condolences to the widow, Dr. Mrs. Judith Nwaoboshi, the Nwaoboshi family, the political family, the people of Delta North and the Anioma nation, assuring them of the continued support of the Delta State Government.
Responding on behalf of the family, Elder Emmanuel Nwaoboshi thanked the governor for the condolence visit, describing it as a great source of comfort, and assured him of the family’s prayers and support.
In a similar visit to Issele-Uku in Aniocha North Local Government Area, Governor Oborevwori mourned the passing of Chief Emmanuel Nuel Ojei, describing him as one of the finest leaders produced by the area.
He commiserated with the widow, Mrs. Vivian Ojei, her children and the entire Ojei family, noting that Aniocha North was a local government he held in high regard because of the quality of leaders it had produced.
“Each time I came to this house, I went straight to see him. He was a very patient, wise and thoughtful man who always offered guidance and support,” the governor said.
The governor recalled that Chief Ojei maintained regular contact with him, offering counsel even after he assumed office as governor, and described the late elder statesman as a fulfilled and highly respected man within and outside the country.
“When I was contesting, I came here to consult him. He was always patient, very smart and always keeping in touch. His passing is a great loss to all of us,” Oborevwori said.
He assured the family of the support of the Delta State Government and prayed for peace and unity in Aniocha North as the community prepares for the burial of the late elder statesman.
Responding on behalf of the family, Mr. Nicholas Ojei, Special Adviser on Special Duties to the Governor and son of the deceased, thanked Governor Oborevwori for the visit, describing it as deeply comforting.
“Daddy held you very close to his heart; you were special to him,” he said, adding that his late father was a man of uncommon generosity who helped many people quietly without seeking recognition.
He pledged that the family would uphold their father’s legacy of service and integrity, while appealing for prayers and support ahead of the burial.
“This loss came suddenly, but we believe he has fulfilled his assignment on earth. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” he said.
