PRESS STATEMENT
Governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the March 18th election in Delta State, Olorogun Barr. Kenneth Gbagi FNIM, OON, has sympathized with the family of late Chief Patrick Okitiakpe, who died at the age of 86 years.
The former Minister of State for Education, mourned with the family, friends and associates of the political leader from Ekapramre community in Ughelli south local government area of the State on the death of the renowned businessman and philanthropist.
The SDP flag bearer, in a release issued Friday 26th January 2024, by his Chief Press Secretary, Kenneth Orusi, noted that late Okitiakpe, a proud indigene from Ughievwen kingdom, contributed immensely to the development of the State economy, providing sustenance to many families in the process.
He described Okitiakpe, an elder statesman and recipience of an Icon of Excellent Leadership award by no less Niger Delta Youth Council (NDYC) in 2014, as a selfless person.
He prayed for the repose of his soul, and expressed optimism that the Okitiakpe family would honour the deceased’s memory by extending a hand of fellowship to those in need.
Gbagi, also urged those who mourn late Okitiakpe, particularly the people of Ekapramre and Deltans in general to whom he devoted time and resources, to sustain his legacies of well-spiritedness and large heartedness.
“Gbagi extends heartfelt condolences to the Okitiakpe family on the passing of their beloved father and son.
“As an active member of his local community and leader, Gbagi, believes that Chief Okitiakpe will be remembered for making important contributions for decades towards the development of his people.
“Gbagi trusts that Chief Okitiakpe’s children, extended family, friends and associates, will continually honour his memory by extending the compassion and selflessness, that epitomized his life, to those in need.
“Gbagi joins them in mourning and celebrating the life of a silent achiever and philanthropist, praying God to grant the soul of the departed eternal rest.”