Celebrating The life And Times Of The Late ESOGBAN OF BENIN, Late Chief David Edebiri

CONDOLENCE MESSAGE.

Late Chief David Edebiri, the Esogban of Benin Kingdom was a Man of truth, a Leader, a counselor and the oracle of our rich culture, the custodian of our traditional norms, ethos and practices. He was a Father to all and I am privileged to be a son of his and a protege.

The news of the death of a man of many parts greatly grieved me. As a great and highly placed Benin Chief, He was a historical maven, an astute and prolific writer, a critical thinker and a cenote of wisdom.

His avuncular neutrality and sound knowledge afforded him the leverage to be unbiased, honest and blunt with his advice, prayers and admonitions. Little wonder that he became a mecca of some sort with political leaders, candidates and aspirants continuously thronging his palace to pay homage, seek his validation, prayers, and advice. The vacuum his death has created in the revered Palace of the Oba of Benin, Benin Traditional institutions, council of Chiefs and the entire Benin Kingdom can never be filled.

We take solace however, in the fact that he lived a good life, a life truly well spent. He was blessed with longevity and a sound, clear mind even at the privileged age of 93.

The Late Esogban of Benin will forever remain immortal because he has replicated himself in the lives of many and etched in their memories his values and ideals. The onus rests on us all as his mentees, biological and adopted children and grandchildren to keep his legacies alive. I sincerely condole with his immediate family and pray God give them and us all, the fortitude to bear this truly irreparable loss.

This is a celebration of the lives and times of a Man who gracefully bowed out after he came, saw and Conquered. May the Soul of our esteemed Late Esogban of Benin rest in peace and may the Almighty grant him eternal repose, Amen!

Signed;

Hon. Chief Dr. Billy Osawaru.

Honorable Member, House of Representatives, Orhionmwon Uhunmwode Constituency.