By Ovasa Ogaga,
Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, has felicitated with renowned elder statesman and Pan–Niger Delta leader, Chief Godwin Ogbetuo, on the occasion of his 96th birth anniversary, describing him as a symbol of integrity, courage, and principled leadership.
In a goodwill message issued, Senator Dafinone said the nonagenarian’s birthday marked not just the celebration of longevity, but of a lifetime devoted to public service, justice, and the promotion of good governance in Delta State, the Niger Delta, and Nigeria as a whole.
The senator recalled Chief Ogbetuo’s pivotal role at the dawn of the current democratic dispensation as former Chairman of the Delta State Elders and Leaders Forum, noting that his leadership provided moral direction and guidance during a critical period in the state’s political evolution. He said Ogbetuo, working alongside other eminent elders and the late Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, played a key role in shaping interventions that strengthened democratic culture and accountability in governance.
According to Dafinone, Chief Ogbetuo has, over the decades, remained a consistent and fearless voice against corruption and abuse of power, earning widespread respect across generations for his forthrightness and unwavering commitment to the common good.
He noted that even at 96, the elder statesman continues to exemplify uncommon wisdom and moral clarity, serving as a source of inspiration to leaders and the younger generation alike.
Senator Dafinone prayed for God’s continued strength, sound health, and peace of mind for Chief Ogbetuo, expressing optimism that his wealth of experience and counsel would remain invaluable to society for years to come.
“On behalf of the great people of Delta Central heartily felicitate with an elder statesman of rare distinction, Chief Godwin Ogbetuo, as he marks his 96th birth anniversary. This remarkable milestone is a celebration of a life devoted to service, principle, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of justice and good governance in Delta State, the Niger Delta, and Nigeria at large.
“Chief Ogbetuo stands tall as a respected Pan–Niger Delta leader and a steadfast advocate of accountable leadership. At the dawn of the current democratic dispensation, his role as former Chairman of the Delta State Elders and Leaders Forum was instrumental in providing guidance and moral direction. Alongside other eminent elders, and working closely with the late Pa. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark helped shape critical interventions that strengthened democratic culture and responsible governance in our state.
“At 96, Chief Ogbetuo continues to exemplify uncommon wisdom, courage, and an uncompromising stand against corruption in governance. His forthrightness, consistency, and moral clarity have earned him enduring respect across generations, as he never hesitated to speak truth to power in defence of the common good.
“On this auspicious occasion, I pray that Almighty God grants Chief Godwin Ogbetuo continued strength, sound health, and peace of mind. May his wealth of experience and counsel remain a source of inspiration and guidance to leaders and the younger generation, even as we celebrate his exemplary life of service.
