Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Friday received the remains of Chief Dan Orbih at the Benin Airport.
Chief Orbih, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, died on August 31, 2026, at the age of 64.
His remains arrived at the airport at about 9:55 a.m. and were received by Governor Okpebholo, accompanied by the Secretary to the State Government and other top government officials.
The Governor led family members and political associates in a motorcade from the airport to Orbih’s Benin residence, where a brief lying-in-state ceremony was held
Speaking at the residence, Governor Okpebholo described Orbih’s death as a great loss to Edo State, saying the deceased was more than a political associate.
“He was a brother,” the Governor said.
“At times like this, when the loss is difficult to bear, we can only turn to God for comfort and strength. I pray that God will give us all the courage and fortitude to bear this great loss. I also pray that God will protect the family, strengthen them during this difficult period and provide them with the grace to carry on.” He also added
Officiating priest, Rev. Fr. Palmer Ikponmwosa, in his tribute, described Orbih as a colossus of Edo politics, a master tactician, leader and kingmaker.
Other political leaders, including PDP chieftain Chief Pascal Ugbome and APC chieftain Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, also paid glowing tributes, describing him as courageous, generous and compassionate.
Chief Orbih was former Chairman of the PDP in Edo State and former National Vice Chairman, South-South of the party.
As announced by the family, the final rites, which commenced in Abuja on Wednesday with a Requiem Mass and Night of Tributes at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, will continue in his hometown, Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government Area.
According to the funeral programme, a Vigil Mass will hold today, Friday, October 9, at St. John’s Catholic Church, Ogbona by 4:00 p.m.
A Funeral Mass will follow on Saturday, October 10, at 10:00 a.m. at the same venue, with interment at his country home immediately after.
The obsequies will be rounded off on Sunday, October 11, with a Thanksgiving Mass at St. John’s Catholic Church, Ogbona by 10:00 a.m.