Oborevwori Pays Tribute To Mama Aruakpor, Urges Family To Celebrate A Life Of Faith & Service
Oborevwori Condoles Bishop Aruakpor Over Mother’s Passing, Says She Lived a Fulfilled Life
Governor Urges Gratitude Amid Grief
DELTA State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on the family of the late Mama Ruth Aruakpor to remain thankful to God for her fulfilled life and enduring legacy, describing her transition as the celebration of a life devoted to God, family and humanity.
The governor made the appeal on Saturday during the funeral service held in honour of the late matriarch at Saint Michael’s Anglican Church, Emevor, in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.
Mama Aruakpor, mother of the Anglican Bishop of Oleh Diocese, Rt. Rev’d John Aruakpor, passed away on 15 April 2026 at the age of 92.
A Legacy of Faith and Service
Remembering the deceased, Governor Oborevwori described her as a devoted Christian, committed church worker and loving mother whose influence extended beyond her immediate family to the wider church and community.
He acknowledged the emotional pain associated with the loss of a mother, noting that maternal love, guidance and prayers remain invaluable regardless of age.
“We are gathered here today with heavy hearts, but also with gratitude to God for the life that our mother lived. Losing a mother is never easy, no matter how old we are, but we can thank God for the beautiful life she lived and the many people she touched in her lifetime,” the governor said.
According to him, the significance of a person’s life is not measured merely by longevity but by the positive impact and values they leave behind.
Measuring Success Through Legacy
Governor Oborevwori said Mama Aruakpor’s achievements could be seen clearly in the lives of her children and in the numerous individuals she inspired during her lifetime.
“One of the clearest signs of a life well lived is the legacy a person leaves behind. Mama’s legacy can be seen in her children and in the many lives she touched throughout her lifetime,” he stated.
Drawing inspiration from 2 Timothy 4:7, the governor said the late matriarch’s life reflected the biblical testimony of Apostle Paul: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”
He noted that her steadfast devotion to God, dedication to family and commitment to service would continue to serve as an example for future generations.
A Day of Thanksgiving
The governor urged family members and mourners not to be consumed by sorrow but to draw comfort from the life and accomplishments of the deceased.
“Today is not only a day of mourning; it is also a day of thanksgiving. We must appreciate God for granting her a long, fruitful and impactful life,” he said.
He extended condolences to the children, grandchildren and relatives of the deceased, assuring them of his prayers and encouraging them to preserve the values and virtues for which Mama Aruakpor was known.
Governor Oborevwori also prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul and for divine strength upon the family.
Archbishop Calls Christians to Prepare for Christ’s Return
Delivering the sermon, the Archbishop of the Bendel Ecclesiastical Province of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev’d Cyril Odutemu, challenged Christians to remain faithful and prepared for the second coming of Jesus Christ.
Speaking on the theme, “Christ Is Coming Quickly,” and drawing from Revelation 22:12-13, Archbishop Odutemu reminded worshippers that Christ’s return is certain and that every believer would be rewarded according to his or her works.
He urged Christians to use their earthly lives in service to God, demonstrate love to others and uphold integrity in all circumstances.
The cleric stressed that earthly possessions and achievements are temporary, while a relationship with God carries eternal significance.
According to him, believers must remain focused on eternal values and live daily in readiness for the Lord’s return.
