By Senator Ehigie Uzamere

My first encounter with the late Chief Dan Osi Orbih remains a fond memory.

It was sometime in the mid 1980s at Auchi Polytechnic, on my way back from Agenebode and I stopped over at the Polytechnic to see my friend, Mr. Osa Osunde. He introduced me to Dan, and in the warmth and spontaneity that characterised our meeting, both of them persuaded me to spend the night at Dan’s father’s hotel – the Hilltop Hotel, instead of going to Benin that evening. It was a simple meeting, but one that I would remember for many years.

As time passed, our paths crossed again, particularly in the political arena. He was a grassroots politician who understood the people and knew how to connect with them. He was a man full of life. With his death, a great tree has fallen in Edo State political forest.

The news of his death was, therefore, a rude shock to me. Death has a way of reminding us that no matter how long or distinguished a journey may be, there comes a time when every man must answer the call of his Creator. What remains afterwards, are the memories, the relationships we built and the footprints we engendered. Dan has left his own footprints in time, especially in politics.

As I join his family, friends, political associates and admirers in mourning his loss, I remember Dan with gratitude for the years and encounters we shared.

May Almighty God console his family, give them the strength to bear this painful loss, and grant them the assurance that the memories of their beloved husband, father, and brother will endure.

May God accept Chief Dan Osi Orbih’s soul and grant him eternal rest.

On behalf of the House of Ehigie Uzamere, I extend our heartfelt condolences.