The representative of Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, has described the death of a former Minister of State for Education, Chief Kenneth Gbagi, as a great loss to the entire Urhoboland.
He spoke on the death of the former Minister and 2023 governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party in a statement.
Dafinone said the death was sad and shocking.
According to him, Gbagi’s death represents “a departure of an iconic figure” in Urhoboland.
He commiserated with the Gbagi family, Oginigbo people, Ughelli South Local Government Area, the entire people of Urhoboland and Delta State over what he described as an irreparable loss.
Dafinone said: “It is with a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences to the Gbagi family of Oginigbo in Ughelli South.
“His passing represents not just the loss of a remarkable individual but also the departure of an iconic figure in the Urhobo land, a distinguished lawyer, an astute industrialist and a former minister.
“Throughout his life, Gbagi exhibited unwavering dedication and exemplary leadership in various spheres, leaving an indelible mark on our society.
“His contributions to the legal profession, industry and education sector will be remembered and cherished for generations to come.
“During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with the Gbagi family as they navigate through this period of grief and loss.
“May they find solace in the fond memories and enduring legacy of Gbagi.”
Dafinone said that Gbagi’s death was also a personal loss to him, recalling that since 1997 when they first met, he had been enjoying a robust and rewarding friendship with the former minister.
He said: “As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate his life and the profound impact he had on our community and nation as a whole.
“His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us in our collective pursuit of progress and development.
“Once again, I extend my deepest sympathies to the Gbagi family and pray for strength and comfort during this trying time.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Chief Emuoboh, the eldest son of the late Gbagi, on behalf of the Gbagi family, had issued a statement on Saturday announcing the passage of the former minister.
According to the statement, the politician and industrialist died on May 4 at the age of 62.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has also expressed his heart-felt condolences to the family of Gbagi.
The governor’s condolence is contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, on Sunday in Asaba.
He recalled that Gbagi was a senior lawyer, businessman, governorship candidate of the SDP in the 2023 general election and an industrialist.
Oborevwori described the passing of Gbagi as tragic, unfortunate and heart-wrenching.
He commiserated with the people of Ughelli South Local Government Area and Oginibo community in particular over the demise of the renowned politician and former Peoples Democratic Party chieftain.
He noted that the departed Gbagi, a Criminologist, entrepreneur and lawyer, was Chairman, Legal Aid Council of Nigeria and later, Minister of Education (State) during President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.
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He said: “On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I mourn the passing of a renowned politician and astute businessman, Chief Kenneth Gbagi, who passed on in Lagos on Saturday.
“The news of his death came to me as a terrible shock and my heart-felt condolences go to his family, the people of Oginibo and the members of the Social Democratic Party.”
Oborevwori prayed to God to accept Gbagi’s soul and grant fortitude to the family and friends he left to bear the loss.
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