Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has described the deaths of former Senator Peter Nwaoboshi and elder statesman, industrialist and community leader, Chief Emmanuel Nuel Ojei, as painful losses that have left deep voids in Delta State, particularly in Delta North, Oshimili North and Aniocha North Local Government Areas.
The governor spoke on Monday during separate condolence visits to the families of the late leaders, where he paid glowing tributes to their courage, principles and lifelong commitment to public service.
At the residence of the late Senator Nwaoboshi, fondly known as “The Oracle,” Governor Oborevwori said the former lawmaker’s death came as a rude shock, revealing that they had spoken only days before his passing.
“I received the sad news with rude shock because I spoke with him just a few days earlier. We discussed some development issues, and I never imagined he would leave us so soon,” the governor said.
He described Nwaoboshi as a fearless and outspoken leader who stood firmly by his convictions.
“If he was with you, he was fully with you; if not, he would tell you plainly. Leaders like him are very few,” Oborevwori noted.
Recalling their long political association dating back to 2006, the governor said Nwaoboshi was a strong advocate of equity and power rotation in Delta State, especially the push for Delta North to produce a governor.
“He was very courageous as a party chairman and a strong voice for equity. Once he believed in a cause, you could not slow him down,” he said.
Oborevwori added that he was consoled by the fact that some issues dear to the late senator, including the Guinea House matter, were resolved before his death.
“It is not about how long one lives but the impact one makes. Senator Nwaoboshi made tremendous impact, raised people and served the state with passion. There is truly a big vacuum in Delta North,” he said.
He extended condolences to the widow, Dr. Mrs. Judith Nwaoboshi, the family, the political community, the people of Delta North and the Anioma nation, assuring them of the support of the state government.
Responding, Elder Emmanuel Nwaoboshi thanked the governor for the visit, describing it as comforting and reassuring. “Your presence has given us strength in this difficult time,” he said, adding that the family would continue to support the governor’s administration.
In a similar visit to Issele-Uku, Aniocha North Local Government Area, Governor Oborevwori mourned the passing of Chief Emmanuel Nuel Ojei, describing him as one of the finest leaders produced by the area.
“Each time I came to this house, I went straight to see him. He was patient, wise and thoughtful, always offering guidance and support,” the governor said.
He recalled that Chief Ojei maintained close contact with him even after he became governor.
“When I was contesting, I came here to consult him. He was always calm, very smart and supportive. His passing is a great loss to all of us,” Oborevwori lamented.
The governor assured the Ojei family of the support of the Delta State Government and prayed for peace and unity in Aniocha North ahead of the burial.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr. Nicholas Ojei, Special Adviser on Special Duties to the Governor and son of the deceased, thanked Oborevwori for the condolence visit.
“Daddy held you very close to his heart; you were special to him,” he said, describing his late father as a man of uncommon generosity who helped many people quietly.
He pledged that the family would uphold their father’s legacy of service and integrity, while appealing for prayers and support.
“This loss came suddenly, but we believe he fulfilled his assignment on earth. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” he said.
