“He was, without doubt an architect first, before any other thing. It was however on the political turf that he etched his name on marble.
“Indeed, Senator Ibru left indelible prints on the Nigerian political space. He contributed greatly to the growth of the Nigerian State.
“Together with Chief Simeon Ebonka, they formed a strong partnership and set the template for the development of Delta State.
“He also contributed a lot to the uplifting of the Urhobo nation.
He continued:
“Ibru’s death surely deprives the nation of one of its best minds.
“I however take solace in the fact that the first democratically elected governor of Delta State lived an inspired and fulfilled life by the manner he deployed his professional expertise towards the development of Nigeria.
“He will definitely be missed by friends, family, associates, colleagues and all those whose lives he positively touched in one way or the other.
“He will forever be remembered as one who came, and did his bit in a very great and impressive way.
“He will also be remembered by Nigerians, particularly Deltans as the man who reached the pinnacle of power but refused to be intoxicated by it.
“I sincerely join the entire family of Senator Ibru, his people at Agbarha-Otor and all patriots of Nigeria in celebrating the life of a great Nigerian citizen.
“I also bid our great leader and mentor a respectful farewell and a sweet repose.
He described Stephen Keshi as a patriotic Nigerian and a great Deltan.
“His death is a monumental national loss. It is very sad. It is very painful. He was a great footballer and coach.
“He brought pride to Delta State.
“He did the nation and the youth proud by standing out in the crowd not only as a skillful player but a coach imbued with maturity.
“We will definitely miss him”
By Henry Ebireri Ovie
