SUN APRIL 19 2026-theGBJournal| Dignitaries from across Nigeria gathered in Onicha-Olona, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, as Chairman of United Bank for Africa, UBA, Mr. Tony Elumelu, laid his late father-in-law, Pa Israel Chinwuba Ogbue, to rest.
Among those in attendance were Vice President Kashim Shettima, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Senator Ned Nwoko, alongside members of the National and State Assemblies, federal ministers, commissioners, captains of industry, and other prominent Nigerians.
Speaking at a reception held after the burial service, Vice President Shettima extended his condolences to the Ogbue family and the Delta State Government, describing the passing of Pa Ogbue as a “glorious exit.”
He noted that the deceased lived a fulfilled life, distinguished by contributions to both the public and private sectors.
The Vice President further highlighted the enduring legacy of the late patriarch through his children, particularly his first daughter, Dr. Awele Elumelu, and her husband, Tony Elumelu, whom he described as accomplished individuals reflecting the values instilled by their father.
He added that although the death of the 99-year-old was deeply felt, it should also be seen as a call to eternal glory, urging the family to immortalise him by upholding the virtues and principles that defined his long and impactful life.
The Vice President also conveyed the condolences of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the family of the deceased, as well as the people and government of Delta State.
“On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I extend our condolences and our respect to the family, the people of Onicha-Olona, and the government and people of Delta State. We honour the life he lived and the example he set,” he said.”
The Vice President observed, however, that the burial ceremony was a celebration of life, as the late Sir Ogbue lived a life of legacy that will outlive generations to come.
The burial service took place at Saint Peter’s Anglican Church, Onicha-Olona, where the Bishop of Asaba Diocese, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Kingsley Obuh, delivered a sermon titled “From Earthly Tent to Eternal Home.”
He emphasised that the best way to depart from the world is to die in Christ, noting that Pa Ogbue devoted his years to the service of God and humanity.
Bishop Obuh urged the congregation to embrace a life of faith, stressing that a Christ-centred life remains the sure path to eternal rest.
In separate interviews, Dr. Awele Elumelu, her husband, Tony Elumelu, as well as other children and grandchildren of the deceased, described Pa Ogbue as a pillar of strength and a remarkable figure whose influence extended beyond the family to the corporate world and society at large.
They pledged to preserve and build upon his legacy.
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