Oborevwori Visits Nwaoboshi, Nuel Ojei Families, Says Delta Has Lost Rare Leaders
DELTA State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday paid condolence visits to the families of late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi and elder statesman, Chief Emmanuel Nuel Ojei, describing their deaths as painful blows that have left deep voids in Delta’s political and social landscape.
The governor, who visited the Nwaoboshi family in Asaba and later the Ojei family in Issele-Uku, said Delta State—particularly Delta North, Oshimili North and Aniocha North—has lost two rare voices whose influence, courage and commitment to the state would be difficult to replicate.
Speaking during his visit to the home of the late Senator Nwaoboshi, popularly called The Oracle, Governor Oborevwori said the former lawmaker’s passing was shocking, especially because they had spoken only days earlier.
“I received the sad news with rude shock because I spoke with him just a few days earlier. We discussed some development issues. I never imagined he would leave us so soon,” the governor said.
He described Nwaoboshi as a bold, fearless and principled political figure who never hid his convictions.
“If he was with you, he was fully with you; if he wasn’t, he told you plainly. People like him are very few,” he noted.
The governor recalled their long-standing relationship dating back to 2006 during the struggle for equity and the agitation for Delta North to produce the governor.
“He was courageous as party chairman and was a strong voice for equity. Once he believed in a cause, you couldn’t slow him down,” he said.
Oborevwori added that he found consolation in the fact that some of the issues dear to the late senator’s heart—particularly the Guinea House matter—were resolved before his transition.
“It’s not about how long one lives but the impact one makes. Senator Nwaoboshi made tremendous impact, raised people and served Delta with passion. Delta North has lost a pillar,” the governor said.
Responding on behalf of the family, Elder Emmanuel Nwaoboshi thanked the governor for the visit, describing it as deeply comforting.
At Issele-Uku, Governor Oborevwori described the passing of Chief Emmanuel Nuel Ojei as another major blow to Delta State, saying the renowned industrialist and community pillar lived a life marked by wisdom, patience and uncommon generosity.
“Each time I came to this house, I went straight to see him. He was patient, wise and thoughtful. Even after I became governor, he constantly reached out to offer guidance,” he said.
The governor said Chief Ojei’s influence extended beyond Delta, noting that he was widely respected in business, leadership and community development.
“When I was contesting, I came here to consult him. He was always smart, patient and supportive. His passing is a great loss to all of us,” he said.
He assured the Ojei family of the state government’s support and prayed for peace and unity in Aniocha North as preparations for the burial continue.
Responding, Mr. Nicholas Ojei, Special Adviser to the Governor and son of the deceased, expressed gratitude for the visit, describing it as a strong show of love.
“Daddy held you very close to his heart; you were special to him,” he told the governor, adding that the late elder statesman helped many people quietly without seeking recognition.
He said the family would uphold his legacy and appealed for continued prayers as they prepare for the funeral.
