Top dignitaries across the country, on Friday graced the final funeral rites of late business magnate, Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo.
Okunbo who passed away on August 7, at the age of 62 years was laid to rest at the Nigerian Air Force Base in Benin City.
Among notable personalities present at the funeral ceremony are Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun state and Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi state.
Also present are, former governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole, ex-Delta State governor, James Ibori, ex-Gombe State governor, Hassan Dakwambo; and ex-Borno State governor, Alli Modu Sheriff.
The Oba of Benin and the Olu of Warri were well represented at the funeral by prominent palace chiefs.
The governor of Edo in his tribute described Hosa as a generous man who dedicated his life and resources to transforming the lives of numerous people.
Obaseki also described the deceased as a trained pilot who prevailed in all spheres, making Edo state proud.
In his words: “Late Captain Okunbo was a trained pilot who mastered the air early in life and set for the land and the maritime sector, prevailing in all spheres. Captain Okunbo was an embodiment of hard work, perseverance, dexterity and acumen, which espoused his Edo heritage.
“Captain Hosa was a philanthropist who gave lavishly of himself and his resources. He will be remembered for his dying love for Edo people. His desires for the development and progress of our dear State, the Niger-Delta region and Nigeria, as well as his valuable contributions to building bridges across the country, must never be forgotten.
“In building a diverse business empire that spans maritime, transportation, logistics, agriculture, hospitality, and security, he displayed rare business acumen, providing employment for thousands of Nigerians and contributing greatly to the development of the nation.”
The first son of the deceased, Osahon described his father as one who lived his life on principle guided by love and mercy.
In his words, “His life is a lesson and every chance you have to spend with him, he tells you a story from his experience and from the bible. I once asked him, why do you forgive so easily despite being hurt by those around you, he answered, ‘My son, do you know the reason God will always deliver my enemies at my feet? It is because God knows I will have mercy upon them.’ He said his two guiding principles were love and mercy, which he lived his life by.”
