Okpebholo Receives Dan Orbih’s Remains as Edo Political Leaders Pay Emotional Tributes

 

By Wakirike Herald | Politics and Public Affairs

BENIN CITY, October 10, 2026 — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Friday led prominent political figures, government officials and family members in receiving the remains of the late Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Dan Orbih, at the Benin Airport.

The solemn reception brought together political associates from different parties, reflecting the relationships and influence the deceased maintained within Edo State's political landscape.

Orbih's remains arrived aboard an aircraft with registration number 5N-SYQ at approximately 9:55 a.m., with Governor Okpebholo and the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Umar Ikhilor, present to receive the body.

Following the airport reception, the governor accompanied family members, friends, political associates and other dignitaries to the deceased's residence in Benin City, where a lying-in-state ceremony was held in his honour.

The gathering provided an opportunity for mourners to reflect on Orbih's public service, political engagements and personal relationships.

Okpebholo Mourns Orbih, Describes Him as a Brother

Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Okpebholo described Orbih's death as a painful loss to Edo State, saying the deceased occupied a special place in his life beyond their political relationship.

According to the governor, Orbih was not merely a politician or political associate but someone he regarded as a brother.

He acknowledged the difficulty of coming to terms with the loss and urged the bereaved family and other mourners to seek strength and comfort in God.

“At times like this, when the loss is difficult to bear, we can only turn to God for comfort and strength,” Okpebholo said.

“I pray that God will give us all the courage and fortitude to bear this great loss.

“I also pray that God will protect his family members, strengthen them during this difficult period and provide them with the grace to carry on.”

The governor's tribute highlighted the personal relationships that often exist beyond political affiliations, particularly among individuals who have spent years participating in public affairs.

Cleric Celebrates Orbih’s Political Influence

Delivering a sermon at the lying-in-state ceremony, Rev. Fr. Palmer Ikpowanosa described the late PDP chieftain as a colossus of Edo politics whose influence extended beyond conventional party activities.

The cleric characterised Orbih as a master tactician, leader and kingmaker, acknowledging his role in political organisation and the development of political relationships within the state.

His tribute reflected the respect expressed by associates who regarded Orbih as an influential figure in Edo's political affairs.

Beyond party politics, Orbih had served as Chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, contributing to public administration through his involvement in the state's higher education sector.

His public engagements brought him into contact with political leaders, institutional administrators and other stakeholders across Edo State.

PDP Stalwart Hails His Courage in Opposition Politics

A PDP stalwart, Mr Pascal Ugbome, described Orbih as a courageous politician who demonstrated that opposition politics could serve as an instrument for accountability and responsible governance.

Ugbome said the late politician was known for challenging those in positions of authority, including individuals with whom he maintained close personal relationships.

According to him, Orbih did not allow friendship or political association to prevent him from questioning decisions he considered inappropriate or contrary to the public interest.

He maintained that Orbih showed Nigerians how opposition politics could be conducted with purpose, courage and relevance.

Ugbome's remarks drew attention to the importance of constructive political opposition in a democratic society, particularly its role in scrutinising government decisions and demanding accountability from public officeholders.

The PDP stalwart suggested that Orbih's willingness to challenge even his closest associates distinguished his approach to political participation.

Ize-Iyamu Remembers Orbih’s Generosity and Compassion

Also paying tribute, an All Progressives Congress chieftain, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, described the deceased as a generous and compassionate man whose assistance had reached numerous people.

Ize-Iyamu said Orbih's death would be particularly painful for those who had benefited from his kindness and support over the years.

“I can only imagine how all those who benefitted from his kindness are feeling, following his demise,” he said.

His tribute offered a perspective on Orbih's life beyond political strategy and public debate, focusing instead on his personal relationships and willingness to assist others.

The remarks also illustrated how political figures can be remembered differently by various sections of society, with some emphasising their public achievements and others recalling their personal conduct.

Edo Political Leaders Gather Across Party Lines

The reception at Benin Airport attracted several prominent political figures and government officials, demonstrating the attention given to Orbih's passing within the state's political community.

Among the dignitaries present were Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa; the state Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Mr Jarrett Tenebe; and Senator Matthew Urhoghide.

Others included a former member of the House of Representatives, Mr Samson Osaigie, and Edo APC Deputy Chairman, Mr Sylvester Aigboboh.

Their presence, alongside PDP associates and members of the deceased's family, reflected the relationships Orbih maintained across political divides.

Although partisan competition remains a defining feature of democratic politics, occasions of bereavement frequently bring together individuals who have previously stood on opposing sides of political contests.

Friday's gathering offered one such moment, as political differences gave way to shared expressions of grief and respect.

A Political Life Remembered Beyond Party Affiliation

Orbih's death has prompted reflections on the nature of political leadership and the qualities that shape a public figure's reputation.

The tributes delivered during the ceremony presented different dimensions of his life, including his political courage, strategic influence, generosity and personal loyalty.

For his associates in the PDP, he was remembered as a politician who understood the importance of opposition and was willing to challenge those exercising public authority.

For political figures outside his party, the emphasis was also on his personal relationships, compassion and willingness to support others.

His involvement in the governing council of Ambrose Alli University further formed part of a public career that extended beyond electoral and party activities.

These recollections, while reflecting the perspectives of those who knew him, also raise broader questions about the responsibilities of political leaders and the values by which their contributions should be assessed.

Political influence can shape party structures and public debate, but its lasting significance also depends on how that influence is exercised and the consequences for institutions and citizens.

Edo Bids Farewell to a Familiar Political Figure

As family members, friends and political associates continue to mourn Chief Dan Orbih, the tributes offered in Benin City illustrate the personal and public dimensions of his passing.

The ceremony was not merely an occasion for political speeches. It was also a moment of remembrance for those who had shared friendships, professional engagements and political experiences with the deceased.

Governor Okpebholo's description of Orbih as a brother, alongside the reflections of PDP and APC figures, highlighted the personal connections that can endure despite political differences.

For Edo State's political community, the loss represents the passing of a figure remembered by associates for his involvement in political organisation, public debate and relationships across party lines.

For his family, however, the loss is far more personal, marking the absence of a loved one whose place cannot be measured by political influence or public recognition.

As the state pays its final respects, the occasion serves as a reminder that public service is ultimately judged not only by positions occupied or political battles fought, but also by the character, relationships and contributions that remain in people's memories.

Chief Dan Orbih's farewell in Benin City has therefore become both a moment of mourning and an opportunity for reflection on a life closely associated with Edo State's political history.

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