OBIOR/Nigeria: Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has paid glowing tribute to the late former Deputy Governor of the state, Chief Benjamin Elue, describing him as a humble and peace-loving leader whose life of service left an enduring imprint on Delta.
Chief Elue passed away on Saturday at the age of 85.
Speaking during a condolence visit to the Elue family residence in Obior, Aniocha North Local Government Area, Governor Oborevwori expressed deep shock over the elder statesman’s death, noting that his passing came at a time when he was still actively engaged in public life.
Addressing the widow, Lady Esther Elue, alongside children and members of the family, the governor recalled that the late former deputy governor had recently confirmed his readiness to attend an official engagement.
“His demise came to us as a rude shock. Only recently, he had indicated his availability to attend an official meeting, and we were all looking forward to his presence,” Oborevwori said.
He extolled the virtues of the late statesman, noting that Elue served Delta State with honour, dedication and integrity, and lived a life defined by meaningful impact rather than material pursuit.
“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,” the governor stated.
Oborevwori further described the former deputy governor as a man who lived peacefully among his people and maintained relationships marked by simplicity and grace.
“He lived peacefully among his people and related with everyone with simplicity and grace. He was not the kind of leader who distanced himself from others or made life difficult for those around him,” he added.
The governor assured the family of the continued support of the Delta State Government, stressing that the loss extended beyond the Elue family to the people of Aniocha North and the entire state.
“The pain is deep, not only for the family, but for the entire state. As painful as this loss is, we take solace in the fact that he passed on peacefully.
“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.
Signing the condolence register, the governor 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 appreciation to the governor, the state government and sympathisers for their overwhelming support.
“I speak on behalf of the B. S. Elue family and the extended Elue dynasty to sincerely thank the Governor, the people of Aniocha North, friends and associates from far and near, and the good people of Delta State for standing with us at this difficult time,” he said.
“This house has truly become a Mecca of a sort since Saturday. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has visited, called, prayed for us, and paid condolence visits. Your presence and kind words have strengthened us immensely.”
He appealed for continued prayers as the family navigates its period of mourning.
Chief Benjamin Elue served as Deputy Governor of Delta State from 1999 to 2007 during the administration of Governor James Onanefe Ibori, and is remembered as an accomplished statesman whose public life was defined by humility, integrity and an unwavering commitment to peace.
