Bayelsa State Governor, Henry Seriake Dickson, has expressed regret over the death of former Military Governor of old Mid-Western State and later civilian Governor of Bendel State, Dr. Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia, who died on March 9, 2017.

The governor in a condolence message to the Government and people of Edo State, described the deceased as a foresighted and people oriented leader, whose period as Governor of the old Mid-Western State, “practically laid the foundation of growth and progress in the old Mid-Western State,” which comprises the present day Edo and Delta states as well as a part of present day Sagbama and Ekeremor Local Government Areas of Bayelsa State.

According to him, Ogbemudia’s programmes and policies have impacted positively on generations of the people of both Edo and Delta states as well as those communities in Bayelsa, which were part of the old Mid-Western State and later Edo State.

He added that his style of leadership at the time gave the people an uncommon sense of belonging in the affairs of the state.

Ogbemudia, according to Dickson, led by example, adding that in every policy and programme, he initiated as Governor, the collective interest of the people was always placed above personal and sectional interest, stressing that, he will be mostly remembered for his administration’s educational policies and the spread of infrastructure across the old Mid-Western State.

Dickson prayed for the peaceful repose his soul, while also praying for God’s grace upon his bereaved family and the people of Edo State to bear the painful and irreparable loss.

In a related development, Dickson has condoled the government and people of Ekiti State over the death of a former Governor of defunct Western region, Major General Adeyinka Adebayo (retd), which occurred last Wednesday in Lagos at the age 89.

The governor in a condolence message, described Adebayo, as “a selfless, committed and dedicated leader, who served his people with passion and distinction.”

Dickson said posterity will continue to remember Adebayo for his uncommon record of performance as governor.

He was particularly full of respect for the octogenarian for his service oriented disposition, which he exhibited both in and out of government, as a one-time President of the Yoruba Council Elders (YCE).

According to him, late General Adebayo remained relevant right up to his last moments on earth, as he continued to provide wise counsel and direction to the present generation political leaders.

Dickson prayed God to grant his soul eternal repose and grant his family, the Government and people of Ekiti State, the fortitude to bear his departure.

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