* Says Edo state has lost a political icon
By Kehinde Jacobs
BENIN CITY — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Friday received the remains of late Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chieftain, Chief Daniel Osikheme Orbih, at the Benin Airport and later joined his family, political associates and well-wishers at his residence for the lying-in-state ceremony.
The arrival of the remains in Benin City marks the commencement of the final funeral rites for the former Edo State PDP Chairman and National Vice Chairman, South-South of the PDP, who died on August 31, 2026 at the age of 64.
Governor Okpebholo, who was at the airport to receive the body, described the passing of the Edo-born political leader as a great loss to the state, transcending partisan lines.
In a condolence message issued in Benin, the Governor paid glowing tribute to the late Orbih, recalling his courage and role in shaping the politics of Edo State.
“Today, I received the remains of Chief Dan Orbih at the Benin Airport and later joined his family, friends, political associates and well-wishers at his residence for the lying-in-state ceremony,” Governor Okpebholo said in a release he personally signed.
“The passing of Chief Orbih is a great loss to Edo State. Beyond politics, he was a brother and a man whose contributions to the political development of our state will be remembered. His courage, convictions and commitment to his beliefs earned him a place in Edo’s political history.”
Governor Okpebholo said the loss was painful and difficult to put into words, stressing that only faith could provide comfort at such a moment.
“At a time like this, words can hardly express the pain of losing someone so dear. We can only turn to God for comfort, strength and the grace to bear this painful loss,” he said.
He extended condolences to the Orbih family of Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government Area, and to all those whose lives were touched by the late politician.
“My heartfelt condolences go to his immediate family, loved ones and all those whose lives he touched. I pray that Almighty God grants them the fortitude to navigate this difficult period and grants the soul of Chief Dan Orbih eternal rest. May his soul rest in peace,” the Governor added.
Chief Orbih, popularly known as Kuluku I, was born on October 27, 1961. He served as Chairman of the Edo State PDP, National Vice Chairman South-South, and until his death, Chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.
His death has continued to attract tributes from across the country. On Wednesday night, political leaders including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, former Governor Adams Oshiomhole and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan gathered in Abuja for a Night of Tributes held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.
Wike at the event described Orbih as the man God used to pave the way for his emergence as Rivers State governor in 2015, recalling how Orbih resisted pressure and financial inducement to stand by him.
The lying-in-state in Benin City is expected to be followed by interment in his hometown, Ogbona, with more tributes expected from Edo political stakeholders.