Delta Gov, Speaker Mourns As Ex-Deputy Governor Dies At 85

Delta State governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and the speaker of the state House of Assembly (DSHA), Rt. Hon. Dennis Guwor, have mourned the state’s former deputy governor, Chief Benjamin Elue, who died at the age of 85.

Elue served as deputy governor to former governor James Ibori between 1999 and 2007.

Oborevwori described the deceased as a loyal patriot, a seasoned administrator and a committed party man whose contributions to the growth and stability of Delta State would remain indelible in the annals of its history.

While in office, the governor said Elue was known for his humility, dedication to duty and unwavering loyalty to the administration he served.

Oborevwori, in a condolence message issued by his chief press secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba, said the news of Elue’s death was received with shock and pain but with gratitude to God for a fulfilled life of service to the state and Nigeria.

He said Elue was not only a distinguished politician but also a renowned teacher who devoted his life to mentoring younger generations.

Oborevwori said Elue’s calm disposition, wisdom and commitment to unity helped to strengthen democratic governance in the state, particularly in the early years of the Fourth Republic.

The governor recalled Elue’s commitment to the unity and peace in Delta State, as well as his immense contributions to the state’s development.

“Chief Benjamin Elue was a man of honour and integrity who served our dear state with passion and loyalty. His invaluable service to Delta and its citizens will remain evergreen,” the governor said.

The speaker, on his part, described the deceased’s contributions to governance and peace-building in Delta as “evergreen”.

Guwor, in his condolence message on the demise of the elder statesman, said, “His contributions to governance, peacebuilding and community development remain indelible in the annals of the history of Delta State.”

The speaker, through his chief press secretary, Nkem Nwaeke, said Chief Elue was a  patriotic Nigerian, a bridge-builder and a man devoted to the service of Delta State and beyond.

According to Guwor, the late elder statesman, who hailed from Obior in Aniocha North, demonstrated uncommon loyalty, dedication, wisdom and commitment to the growth and unity of the state during his tenure as deputy governor.