Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor has commiserated with the people of Asaba and, indeed Deltans and the traditional institution in Nigeria, over the passage of the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Prof Joseph Chike Edozie, CFR.
Reacting to Tuesday’s evening announcement of the transition of the reverred traditional ruler by the Asagba-in- Council, Guwor said he was saddened by the news of passage of the Monarch when preparations for his centenary birthday celebration was at the concluding stage.
The Speaker in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Nkem Nwaeke, described the demise of the Asagba as a big loss to the State, particularly, the people of Asaba, the capital of Delta State.
Rt Hon Guwor noted that the Professor of Medicine who ascended the throne of his forefathers in 1991, was a unifier and a cerebral traditional ruler with unequalled positive track records.
The Speaker who also reflected on the outstanding legacies of Prof Edozien as a Lecturer in the prestigious University of Benin, maintained that his reign as the Asagba of Asaba for three decades and three years witnessed unprecedented peace and development in the Kingdom.
Saying that although the Monarch was blessed with longevity to have attained 100 years, Guwor said his wise counsel was still needed by Government at all levels, including the 8th Assembly of the Delta State House of Assembly.
The Speaker stated further that the positive impacts of Prof Chike Edozien on humanity cannot be easily forgotten, adding that he would be greatly missed by all that came in contact with him.
“On behalf of my immediate family, the people of Warri South West Constituency, and the Delta State House of Assembly, I heartily commiserate with the Member Representing Oshimili South in the State Assembly, Hon Bridget Anyafulu, the family of Prof Chike Edozien and the people of Asaba over the passage of our highly revered Monarch, His Royal Majesty, Obi Prof Joseph Chike Edozie, CFR, JP, the Asagba of Asaba.
“While death is a necessary end for every mortal, the passage of His Royal Majesty, the Asagba of Asaba, would be highly felt because of his wise counsel, any time, any day you are opportuned to be in his presence.
“He was a great man, intelligent, charismatic and an epitome of knowledge and wisdom. He lived a fulfilled life worthy of note and celebrating.
“We are consoled by the fact that the Monarch saw it all, having lived for 100 years and left indelible foot prints of positive legacies.
“It is my sincere wish and prayers that, God in His infinite mercies grant him eternal rest” Guwor stated.