Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Friday attended the funeral service of the late Mr. Danladi Ambi, foster father of the State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme.
Governor Oborevwori was accompanied by top government functionaries and other prominent Deltans to the solemn ceremony held at ECWA Church, Jagindi Tasha, Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State, drew dignitaries from across the country.
Mr. Ambi, a retired soldier, public servant, farmer, and devout Christian, died at the age of 82 after a brief illness.
Those who attended the ceremony with the Governor, include; Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, Member representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency; Hon. Charles Emetulu; Hon. Emeka Osamuta; Comrade Reuben Izeze; Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza, Hon. Funkekeme Solomon; Dr Barry Gbe and Chief Jeffrey Azagba, among others.
Also in attendance were Hajia Fatima Abass Tajudeen, wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives; Hon. Daniel Amos, Member representing Jama’a/Sanga Federal Constituency and son-in-law of the deceased; Hon. Mark Esset of Uyo Federal Constituency; and Hon. Ishaya Lalu of Mangu/Bokkos Federal Constituency.
In his moving tribute, Sir Monday Onyeme expressed deep gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for the sacrifice of traveling to Kaduna to honour his late foster father.
He described Mr. Ambi as the pillar of his life and career.
“I began living with Baba when I was 10 years old. He was husband to my aunt, but he raised me as his own child.
“He ensured I completed my education and supported me through my career journey, including getting employment in NEPA and NALDA. Everything I am today revolved around him,” Onyeme said with emotion.
He described the deceased as a tough soldier, a disciplinarian, a farmer of excellence, and a man who lived for the success of others.
“His counsel remained invaluable even in retirement. We will miss him greatly, but we are comforted that we are living the kind of life he wanted us to live,” Onyeme added.
Delivering the sermon titled “Legacy Beyond the Grave” from Hebrews 11:4, the officiating minister, Rev. Gambo Shagaya, urged Christians to live purposeful lives that leave lasting footprints on humanity and the Kingdom of God.
“Every life leaves a legacy, whether rich or poor, educated or uneducated. The question is, what kind of legacy are you leaving? Leave a legacy of faith, service, and impact.
“Let your children see your passion for the things of God, serve humanity with your achievements, and impact your generation before you depart this world,” Rev. Shagaya admonished.
The funeral was marked by heartfelt tributes, prayers, and hymns, as family, friends, and dignitaries celebrated the life of a man remembered for his discipline, service, and selfless impact.