Senator Ned Munir Nwoko of Delta North has paid a condolence visit to the palace of the Asagba of Asaba to offer his sympathies to the royal family following the passing of His Royal Majesty Obi Professor Chike Edozien, CFR.
Addressing those present, including traditional rulers, palace Chiefs, and family members, Senator Ned Nwoko expressed his deep sorrow. He described the late monarch as the most humane person he had encountered, highlighting his kindness and humility despite his royal status and scholarly achievements.
The senator said, “I’m at a loss for words. He was the most humane human being that I came across many years ago in England. Prof. Joseph Chike Edozien was a very kind and very ordinary person in so many ways even with all his education and responsibilities as a king. Very unusual. His simplicity was disarming. He was a father to all of us.
“Through him, I got to meet all the other Kings who were exceptionally close to him. Two years ago, when I debated whether to continue my political journey, his public encouragement spurred me on. he was the one who said to me publicly to carry on. I got the best words of encouragement from him more than anybody else. His words were all I needed to know that a lot of our people are looking up to me to get things done.
“When he mentioned not feeling well, I silently hoped he’d live to see me performing in the Senate office, should I win.
“At 99, he had shown remarkable steadfastness in his career both at home and abroad. I eulogized him on the floor of the Senate, before the Senate would permit such; it means that that person must have achieved a lot and contributed to national growth. Many of my colleagues who participated in honoring him are not even from our side, some northerners and so. But they attested to Asagba’s pedigree.
“In all aspects of life, it doesn’t matter how you look at it, he was very exceptional. I lack words to describe him. He was the natural leader, he was not just a traditional ruler of note. He led by example and his lifestyle was exemplary. So we’ve lost a great man whose position would be very hard to fill. It’s sad that Asagba has joined our ancestors but we have to remain together in unity. That same unity, that same bond that we shared when he was alive, we must carry on, we must speak with one voice. And I am willing to do something in commemoration of Asagba Edozien.”
Senator Ned Nwoko had earlier taken to his social media platforms to express his shock and sadness while celebrating the enduring legacy of the late Asagba.
The distinguished Senator melted hearts and earned the people’s respect when he honored the late Asagba Edozien on the Senate floor. He sponsored a tribute and eulogized the revered monarch, highlighting his remarkable life and contributions as an academic patriot, traditional ruler, and leader. He further recognized his significant impact on society, urging colleagues to observe a moment of silence in remembrance of his contributions to national growth. The Senate graciously honored the revered royal father in accordance with Senator Nwoko’s tribute.
