WITHIN a period of one week, the Benin Grand Commandery of Knights of St. John’s International (KSJI) has lost its Grand President, Brig. Gen.(Noble) Sylvester Isidahome Egbase, the Worthy President of St. Brigid’s Commandery, Asaba, Sir Nicholas Chizea, and Lady Rose Origbe.
The Grand President passed on on Tuesday night in Benin City, at the age of 69.
He was the Charter Worthy President of St. Francis Commandery No. 717, Benin City.
He had already passed on before results of the test conducted on him for COVID-19 came out positive.
Sir Chizea, also passed on at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba due to complications from surgery he had as a result of stomach-related ailments.
Also on Tuesday, news filtered in that Lady Origbe also passed on as a result of COVID-19 related ailment.
According to a statement signed by the Secretary of the Benin Grand Commandery, Col. (Noble) Solomon Obeakemeh, Lady Origbe passed on at about 6:00 pm on Monday, June 29, 2020.
“We also announce the fall of Sis. Rose Origbe (Sister Of Brig. Gen. Patrick Origbe, erstwhile SSCN 2nd Trustee).
“She was the Benin Grand Auxiliary’s Messenger and one time Respected President Of Laux 523, Ughelli.
“May God grant them merciful judgement; eternal rest grant unto them Oh Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them.
“May their souls and the souls of all the faithfull departed, through the mercy of God, rest in perfect peace. Amen,” Obeakemeh said.
In a telephone chat with newsden.com.ng on Wednesday evening, the Grand Secretary disclosed that all Grand activities of the Benin Grand Commandery have been put on hold till further notice.
He stated that 21 days fasting and prayers declared by the Commandery commenced on Wednesday and urged members of KSJI to remain prayerful and observe safety measures.
“After due consultations, all activities earlier scheduled for 4th, 11th And 18th July, 2020 are hereby put on hold until further notice.
“This is to ensure strict adherence to the 21 days prayers and fasting during the mourning period.
“When condolence visits can commence shall be communicated to all brothers and sisters as soon as feasible.
“The Grand Commandery/Laux is overwhelmed by the outpouring of emotions on the fall of Brig.Gen. Sylvester Egbase,” he added.
