The deputy governor of Edo state, Hon. Dennis Idahosa has paid a glowing tribute to Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, on the occasion of his 91st birthday celebration on Thursday by describing him as “father to all.”
In a press statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Friday Aghedo, the deputy governor said Esama has used a better part of his life to impact the lives of the people within and outside the state.
He said that as an investor and employer of labour, Esama’s legacies in his immediate constituency of Ovia should be emulated by all for the betterment of the people.
Idahosa, who spoke on behalf of the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, felicitated the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, and prayed for more impactful lives for the nonagenarian.
Idahosa stated, “The Esama of Benin Kingdom is a father to us, an elder statesman, and an enigma who has brought development to Edo State, Ovia Federal Constituency, and Okada.”
Idahosa who appeared at this event in dual capacity, also spoke for himself. He posited, “To me, we are here to celebrate a father who helped to develop Edo State.
“He has given a lot of job opportunities to our young men and women in this state. He is a great man.
“In every generation, God always blesses people with a man like this. I am happy to witness this in my generation; to have people in the likes of Esama coming not just from Edo State but from my Constituency.”
Idahosa wished the celebrant the best life had to offer just as he prayed for Esama’s continued soundness of health, in mind and body.
Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku praised the Esama on his birthday, stating that people looked forward to the yearly event.
Earlier, the Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Thomas Abiodun Adeleke who prayed for longevity and vitality of the Esama, based the theme of his sermon on “Celebrating for greater fruitfulness.”
He took his text from Acts13:36; Psalm 92:12-15; Psalm 92:14; Psalm 67:5-7; John 15:5-4; Psalm 74:20 and Mark 10:7.
He gave key points for longevity and happiness, encouraging the celebrant and guests to embrace the praise of God, and to embrace missionary work and sowing into the propagation of the gospel and medical research to help alleviate suffering.
Guests were entertained with special music ministrations, hymns, and Edo Christian music renditions put together from guest choirs and chorale groups, while the special performance by Pastor Margaret Agbonifo got guests on their feet dancing.
An array of international guests, Royal Fathers, Christians from different denominations, with their host pastors, friends, and relatives, all gathered to physically honour the celebrant during the Morning Dew Service.
