Governor of Edo state, Mr. Godwin Obaseki Friday declared a seven day of mourning in the state in honour of the former governor of Mid-West State and old Bendel state, Mr. Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia who passed on early hours of Friday.
Obaseki who was announcing the death of the former governor, expressed shock over the demise of the two term former governor of the region.
“It is with sadness but glory to God Almighty that the Government of Edo State announces the death, in the early hours of today, of Brigadier General (rtd) Dr. Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia.
“Dr. Ogbemudia served as Military Governor of the Mid-West State from 1967 to 1975 and Executive Governor of the old Bendel State from October 1983 to December 1983.
“He was also a former Minister of Labour and Productivity, former Chairman of Petroleum Products Monitoring Company, and Chairman Governing Council of the University of Abuja.
“A fine Military officer who helped to liberate the Mid-West region during the Civil War, under his administration, Bendel became a leading state in education, sports and industry.
“As two time Governor of Bendel, which comprised present-day Edo and Delta states, Dr. Samuel Ogbemudia will be fondly remembered for the strong foundation that he laid to consolidate the infrastructural, social and economic development of both states.
“Amongst his several milestone achievements was the Mid-West Institute of Technology, which is now the University of Benin.
“As we mourn our great leader and father, we take solace in the legacies he bequeathed Edo State and indeed Nigeria
“As a mark of honour, I hereby declare 7 days of mourning commencing from today.
“May the soul of General (Dr.) Samuel Ogbemudia rest in peace.” Obaseki stated.
