By Nosa Ekhator
The Osewele family of Ukpoke in Ekpoma, Edo State, has announced the funeral arrangements for their father, grandfather and uncle, Pa Andrew Osewele Ekpenwele.
The funeral programme was made known in a statement issued to newsmen in Ekpoma by the family spokesman, Mr. Nat Osewele, who is also the News Editor of The Sun Newspapers.
According to Mr. Osewele, “The rites of passage for the late astute leader will commence on Thursday, February 12, with a vigil Mass at the Uhiele Development Centre Auditorium, off Ukpoke Road, at 4 p.m.
“The traditional rites are scheduled for Friday, February 13, 2026, at his residence in Ukpoke, while the entertainment of guests will hold on Saturday, February 14, at the Ukpoke Primary School field.
The funeral activities will be rounded off with a thanksgiving Mass at the Nativity of Mary Catholic Church, Uhiele, at 8 a.m. on Sunday.” Pa Osewele, a centenarian and astute community leader, was until his death the Odionwele of Uhiele in Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State.
Meanwhile, tributes have continued to pour in for the late Pa Ekpenwele, whose life has been described as a testament to purpose, dedication and service. The Ukpoke Area Development Foundation (UADF), in a tribute jointly signed by Sir Charles Osezua (OON) and Dr. Ab-Ayeni, Acting Chairman and General Secretary respectively, eulogised its late Elders’ Council Chairman as a cornerstone of peaceful coexistence.
“He was more than a leader. He was a beacon of peaceful coexistence whose reign marked an era of accelerated development like never before in the community,” the statement read.
In another tribute, Col. David Imuse (retd), former Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said:
“As the Odionwele of Uhiele, Pa Ekpenwele embodied the values of leadership, wisdom and compassion. He was a guardian of tradition, a promoter of unity and a source of guidance for generations. His counsel was sought by many, and his words carried weight, born out of a deep understanding of the world and its complexities.”
In another condolence message to the family, Hon. Ihenyen Aisazobor Daniel, Supervisor for Works, Esan West Local Government Area, wrote: “One of Pa Ekpenwele’s most enduring legacies is the emphasis he placed on family, community and unity. He was a strong advocate for the importance of relationships, mutual respect and understanding. Through his example, he showed us that true strength lies not in individual achievements alone but in the bonds we forge with others.
“Under his leadership, the Uhiele community flourished, becoming a symbol of peace, harmony and cooperation. Pa Ekpenwele’s vision for a united and prosperous community inspired many to work towards a common goal, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.”
In a related development, the Board of Trustees of the Nigerian Media Support Initiative (NMSI) described the late Pa Osewele Ekpenwele as a leader par excellence whose teachings on morality and sound family upbringing are reflected in his children and the wider Uhiele community.
In a condolence message signed by its General Secretary, Dr. Efosa Ogie Odia, NMSI stated:
“Although Pa Osewele Ekpenwele may not have been personally known to us while he was alive, our encounter with his son, Mr. Nat Osewele, the News Editor of The Sun Newspapers and a committed member of our Board of Trustees, is a reflection of his personality.
“That Pa Osewele Ekpenwele gave birth to, trained and nurtured a personality like you — one who respects people across all backgrounds and displays the highest humility — is indicative of his character. As they say, a lion can never beget a goat.
“While we commiserate with the family through you, it is our heartfelt prayer that God will grant his soul eternal rest.”
+2348024189597(WhatsApp/Calls)+2348180442222(WhatsApp Only) email.- sparknewsnaija@gmail.com
Comments
Post a Comment