ASABA/Nigeria: The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, on Thursday led members of the state legislature on a condolence visit to the family of the late former Deputy Governor of Delta State, Chief Benjamin S.C. Elue, at his residence in Obior, Aniocha North Local Government Area.
Chief Elue served as Deputy Governor of the state between 1999 and 2007.
The legislative delegation, made up of principal officers and members of the House, was received by the widow of the late statesman, Lady Esther Elue, alongside their children, relatives and prominent indigenes of Obior, an agrarian community regarded in some quarters as the traditional headquarters of the Ezechima Kingdom.
Speaking during the visit, Speaker Guwor described the late Chief Elue as a dedicated public servant whose contributions to the growth and stability of Delta State would remain indelible.
He recalled the former Deputy Governor’s commitment to the welfare of the people and his efforts in promoting peace, unity and development across the state.
Guwor also noted that during his tenure as Deputy Governor, Chief Elue maintained a cordial and productive relationship with the Delta State House of Assembly, which strengthened governance in the state.
“On behalf of the Delta State House of Assembly, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the late former Deputy Governor. May his soul rest in peace and may the Almighty God grant the family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” the Speaker said.
He further commended the late political leader for his humility, dedication to service and commitment to humanity, adding that his legacy of selfless service would continue to inspire future generations.
Also speaking during the visit, the member representing Aniocha North Constituency and Leader of the House, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, described the late Chief Elue as a respected leader whose influence and contributions to the development of Delta State would continue to be remembered.
Nwaobi said the former Deputy Governor remained a man of honour and integrity whose leadership qualities stood him out both in life and even in death.
Responding on behalf of the family, members of the Elue family expressed appreciation to the Speaker and members of the Assembly for the visit and the show of solidarity during their period of grief.
They described the condolence visit as a great source of comfort and a testament to the respect and recognition the late former Deputy Governor commanded during his lifetime.
The visit featured prayers for the repose of the soul of the departed, a minute of silence, words of consolation to the family and the signing of the condolence register.
Meanwhile, a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Mr. Nkem Nwaeke, disclosed that Guwor also led members of the Assembly to the residence of Mrs. Josephine Ada Kachikwu, a former two-term Chairman of the Delta State House of Assembly Service Commission, in neighbouring Onicha-Ugbo community, Aniocha North Local Government Area.
During the visit, the Speaker and lawmakers congratulated Mrs. Kachikwu on the occasion of her 77th birthday anniversary.
Guwor commended the former commission chairman for her years of dedicated service to God and humanity, praying for continued grace, good health and fulfillment in her life.
He wished the septuagenarian many more years of impactful service and celebration.
In her response, Mrs. Kachikwu expressed gratitude to the Speaker and members of the Assembly for the honour of the visit and their warm birthday wishes.
She appreciated the recognition and assured them of her continued prayers for the success of the Assembly and the progress of Delta State.
