Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has honoured the late Dr. Henry Omorogieva Akpata, a renowned medical practitioner, at his funeral ceremony, describing him as a dedicated professional whose legacy in the medical field will continue to inspire generations.
Dr. Akpata, a respected obstetrician and gynaecologist, was the father of Mr. Olumide Akpata, former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and 2024 Labour Party governorship candidate in Edo State.
Governor Oborevwori, represented by the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, attended the commendation service held at the United Baptist Church, Mission Road, Benin City.
In his tribute, the Governor expressed heartfelt condolences to the Akpata family and praised the late doctor’s legacy of dedicated service.
Oborevwori said; “On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I convey my deepest condolences to you and your family on the passing of your beloved father, Dr. Henry Omorogieva Akpata.
“Although death is the inevitable end for all mortals, that understanding does not shield us from the pain and emptiness left behind by the loss of a loved one.
“I share in your grief and pray that you find strength and comfort in the knowledge that your father lived a life worthy of emulation.
“Dr. Akpata lived well and achieved much. It is to his eternal credit that the world was blessed with such an outstanding professional, whose life continues to inspire others.
“He will be sorely missed not just by your family, but by all whose lives he touched with his wisdom, faithful service, and generous spirit. He leaves behind a legacy that death cannot erase.”
Delivering the sermon at the service, former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, described Dr. Akpata as a man remembered for decades of selfless service to humanity through medicine.
He urged Christians to place their hope in God rather than in worldly things, He said; “there is life after this life. If your hope is only in this world, then you have a serious problem because this world is temporary. If your hope is in your connections, charms, or wealth, they will fail you. So where is your hope, Christ or something else?”
Among the dignitaries present at the service were the Deputy Governors of Enugu and Abia States, Ifeanyi Ossai and Ikechukwu Emetu, respectively; former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi; former Edo State Governor, Senator Prof. Osarienmen Osunbor; former Deputy Governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu; and former Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire.
Others in attendance included the Managing Director of SPDC, Osagie Okunbo; former President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mr. Amaju Pinnick; and former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Bashorun J.K. Randle, among others.
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