ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Thursday joined dignitaries in Asaba to celebrate the 70th birthday of the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, describing the royal father’s reign as a model of peace, humility, and purposeful leadership.
Speaking at the thanksgiving Mass held at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church, West-End, Asaba, Governor Oborevwori said the Asagba’s life is a shining testament to divine grace, wisdom and unwavering commitment to service. He noted that attaining the biblical age of three score and ten in sound health was a blessing worthy of deep gratitude.
“I am very happy for this celebration because it is important that when God takes you to a particular level in life, you come back to appreciate Him. This thanksgiving is special because it is not just another birthday; it is an offering of gratitude for seventy years of divine mercy, strength, and grace,” the Governor said.
He praised the Asagba’s journey from the classroom to the throne, noting that the monarch had distinguished himself as a scholar, legal luminary and teacher before becoming a traditional ruler who continues to foster unity and development in Asaba and Delta State.
“Your Majesty, your life is a living testimony of wisdom. From the classroom to the throne, you have demonstrated excellence, honesty, and service. As a lawyer and teacher, you helped shape minds and institutions across Nigeria and beyond. As a royal father, you have guided your people with grace, fostering unity and progress,” Oborevwori stated.
The Governor also commended the monarch’s humility and devotion to duty, pointing to his consistent support for the state government and unwavering presence at public functions. “There is no invitation too small for His Majesty to honour. He attends every event, even at short notice. That humility and commitment inspire us all,” he added.
Citing Proverbs 16:31, Oborevwori described the Asagba’s gray hair as “a crown of glory gained through a righteous life,” and prayed for continued strength, wisdom and long life for the royal father.
He further acknowledged the steadfast support of the Asagba’s wife, describing her as “a pillar of strength” in the monarch’s journey of service to God and humanity. The Governor also thanked the people of Asaba Kingdom for standing behind their royal father, noting that their unity has contributed significantly to the peaceful and progressive reign.
“Your Majesty, happy 70th birthday. May these years bring you more joy, peace, and fulfillment,” he concluded.
Earlier in his homily, the Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, described the celebration as a moment of reflection and gratitude for a life lived in service to God and humanity. Drawing from Psalm 90, he noted that seventy represents a significant milestone in biblical terms. He commended the Asagba for his steadfast faith, wisdom and compassion, calling him “a true monarch who has served God and humanity with love, integrity and commitment.”
