By Lucky Uto
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Friday called on Nigeria’s political leaders to rise above rivalry and division, declaring that the nation’s progress depends on unity, cooperation, and mutual respect.
The governor made the appeal during the Funeral Mass of Peter Nwaoboshi at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, where eminent Nigerians across political, ethnic, and religious lines gathered to honour the late lawmaker.
Speaking at the solemn ceremony, Oborevwori reminded leaders that public office is a sacred trust given by God and the people for the common good. He stressed that power and positions are temporary, but the legacy of service endures.
“Power is transient. Positions are temporary. But the legacy of service endures,” the governor said. “History will judge us not by titles held, but by lives touched.”
He warned that allowing division to shape national discourse weakens the country’s moral foundation, insisting that Nigeria must always come first.
“When we are united, there is strength.
When we cooperate, there is progress. But when we allow division to define us, we weaken the moral foundation upon which we stand,” he emphasized.
Oborevwori reassured Deltans of his administration’s commitment to inclusive development and responsible governance, pledging to continue policies that uplift the people.
Reflecting on the life of the late senator, he described Nwaoboshi as a patriot and bridge-builder whose contributions transcended political affiliations and strengthened democratic governance.
He urged the family to uphold his legacy of integrity, excellence, and patriotism.
Citing John 11:25, the governor highlighted the Christian hope of eternal life, encouraging Nigerians to draw strength from faith even in moments of grief and national reflection.
In his homily, the Vicar-General of the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku, Very Rev. Fr. Peter Mobuogwu, spoke on hope, accountability, and divine justice, reminding the congregation that “the souls of the righteous are in the hands of God.”
The Funeral Mass attracted a distinguished gathering, including the Governor’s wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme; former Senate President Senator Ahmad Lawan; former Governors James Ibori and Ifeanyi Okowa; former Deputy Senate President Senator Ovie Omo-Agege; former Deputy Governor Deacon Kingsley Otuaro; and other federal and state lawmakers, underscoring the enduring influence of the late senator.
