BENIN CITY — Edo State Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa has described Governor Monday Okpebholo as an “understanding boss and senior brother,” citing his support and compassion following the death of his mother, Madam Esther Imaguomwanruo Idahosa.
Idahosa made the remark while receiving the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, alongside principal officers of the 8th Assembly, during a condolence visit to his family residence.
He disclosed that the governor had been in constant touch, calling daily to check on his wellbeing and insisting that he observe a minimum of seven working days off duty to mourn.
“I was supposed to resume work today, but he said no, that I must take time off while they handle official duties and allow me receive guests.
“He has also been fully involved in ongoing preparations,” Idahosa said, urging the lawmakers to convey his appreciation to the governor.
The deputy governor, who thanked the legislators for their solidarity, gave a brief account of his late mother’s life, describing her as impactful, kind-hearted, generous, and deeply supportive.
He noted that despite Nigeria’s life expectancy being put at about 55 years, his mother lived to the age of 95, raising six children — five boys and one girl — all of whom are doing well.
While emphasising that the family was in a celebratory mood rather than mourning, Idahosa said his mother lived a fulfilled life marked by compassion and faith.
“If there is an afterlife, I would still wish she remains my mother. She was my backbone, confidant, and prayer partner,” he added.
The condolence visit drew a large turnout of political leaders, government officials, and community groups.
Leading a delegation from Ovia North East Local Government Area, the council chairman, Hon. Igbinaken Omoruyi, described the late matriarch as a woman of prayer and virtue whose life should be emulated.
Similarly, the Chairman of Ovia South West Local Government Area, Hon. Nosakhare Edobor, said her passing was painful but noted that she lived a fulfilled life and left behind a legacy through her son’s leadership.
The Edo Women Vanguard, led by its Director General, Hon. Sweet Oghogho, also paid tribute, recalling the deceased’s hospitality, cheerfulness, and active lifestyle even in old age.
Security agencies and other groups, including the Special Constabulary Police from Ovia South West, the Federal Road Safety Corps, and the Edo Security Corps, pledged support to the family, particularly in maintaining peace during the funeral activities.
Several ministries, including the Ministry of Livestock Development and the Ministry of Environment and Sustainability, also paid condolence visits, promising to stand by the family.
Other groups present included the Association of Estate Developers in Edo State, ward leaders, market associations, youth leaders, the Nigerian Union of Teachers, the SMO Gorgeous Singers and Dancers, and APC Igbo stakeholders.
They all offered prayers for the repose of the deceased and strength for the bereaved family as preparations continue for the celebration of life.