On Friday, Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, former Delta State Governor Chief James Ibori, and former Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Alex Ogomudia attended the funeral mass for the late Chief Raphael Odiaka Ezeoba, held at St. Thomas’ Catholic Church in Ogbowele, Ibusa.
Governor Oborevwori was represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA. The mass commemorated the life of Chief Ezeoba, father of former Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Dele Ezeoba, and saw an impressive turnout of retired and serving military officers along with prominent politicians, including Air Marshal O. Pentririn, Vice Admiral V.K. Ombu, Lt. Gen. Ihejirika, Chief Patrick Ukah, Sen. Ovie Omo Agege, Prince Nduka Obaigbuna, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, and Comrade Ovuozorie Macaulay.
In his homily, Very Rev. Fr. Norbert Uchunor emphasized the importance of leadership centered on service to humanity.
He urged leaders to demonstrate integrity and hold fast to the truth.
Fr. Uchunor reflected on the significance of remembering the good deeds of the deceased, describing Chief Ezeoba as a principled gentleman, peacemaker, and devoted community leader.
“Today, we celebrate a man of integrity, whose life exemplified discipline, compassion, and faith,” he said. He further remarked that true legacy is crafted through kindness and love rather than material wealth.
The priest called on attendees to aspire for a life of integrity, stating, “Old age is not a curse unless leaders abandon truth for dishonesty.” He encouraged everyone to live with righteousness, leaving behind a legacy grounded in love and peace.
