Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the upcoming Edo State governorship election, has expressed his deepest condolences to His Grace, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubese, the Archbishop of Benin City, and the entire Edo Catholic Community, following the death of Emeritus Archbishop Patrick Ebosele Ekpu at the age of 92.
In a statement issued by his media team in Benin City and sent to Truth Live News on Wednesday, Ighodalo voiced his sorrow over the loss of the esteemed Emeritus Archbishop, while encouraging the Catholic faithful to celebrate his impactful life dedicated to service.
“I am deeply saddened by the announcement yesterday, Tuesday, of the home-call of the servant of the Most High God, an exemplary and impactful leader, Archbishop Patrick Ebosele Ekpu, the Emeritus Archbishop of the Benin City Archdiocese. While the thoughts of the physical parting fill us all with grief and pain, let us be greatly consoled by his life of service to God and humanity,” the statement read.
Ighodalo also acknowledged the Archbishop’s long and meritorious service, saying, “Let us be grateful to the Almighty God for bestowing on him the rare grace of longevity, and importantly, for serving God and humanity diligently, meritoriously, and retiring with honour and dignity when he was due for retirement.”
Concluding his message, Ighodalo offered his heartfelt condolences on behalf of his wife, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Ighodalo, and his team. He prayed for strength and grace for the Archbishop’s immediate family and the Catholic community, adding, “While praying for his immediate family and the Catholic community in our state for grace and fortitude to bear the loss, I pray also that God in His infinite mercy will grant his gentle soul a peaceful repose.”
