The remains of Chief Dan Osi Orbih, former South-South National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have been laid to rest in his hometown of Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State, amid tributes from political leaders and associates.
Those who attended the funeral included Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, former Senator Magnus Abe, Samuel Anyanwu and other prominent political figures.
The funeral Mass was held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Ogbona.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Okpebholo recalled his previous visit to the church to celebrate Orbih’s birthday, saying he had expected to return for similar celebrations in the years ahead.
“This is my second time coming to this Church. The first time I came here was to come celebrate with Chief Dan Osi Orbih. I said to him, we will be coming here like this in the next eight years to celebrate your birthday, but today we are here for a different purpose,” the governor said.
He added that Orbih’s death had reminded him of the transient nature of life.
“Today, it has dawned on me that there is nothing in life. Here lies in the casket the remains of Chief Dan Osi Orbih, and he can’t stand up or walk anymore,” he said.
The governor urged public office holders and other Nigerians to use their positions to make meaningful contributions to society, stressing that life is temporary.
He also prayed for the bereaved family and expressed appreciation to Wike for standing by the family during the difficult period.
In his remarks, Wike said seeing Orbih’s remains in the casket made the reality of his death undeniable, describing the deceased as a friend and brother.
He thanked Okpebholo for supporting the family and for paying his last respects at Orbih’s residence in Benin City.
Wike also dismissed speculation about a possible rift between him and the Edo governor, insisting that their relationship remained cordial.
“There is no problem between me and the governor. We are very close, we work together, and we would continue to work together,” he said.
In his homily, the Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, reminded the congregation that death was inevitable, regardless of a person’s titles, qualifications, position or social standing.
Citing John 11:35, the bishop reflected on the reality of human mortality and the need for everyone to remain spiritually prepared.
He said Orbih’s parents had introduced him to the Catholic faith and that he was born, baptised and dedicated in the Church.
“Death is what all must pay, and one can tell God to hold on because we are busy at the moment, but be prepared to answer the call at any time,” Dunia said.
The funeral brought together political leaders, friends, associates and members of the community to honour Orbih’s life and bid him a final farewell.
