Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori says the All Progressives Congress (APC) will welcome former governor of the state, James Ibori, into the party’s fold.
Oborevwori, who recently defected to the APC from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made the remarks during the vigil mass held in honour of the former deputy governor of Dela State, Prof. Amos Utuama.
The mass was held at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, Otu-Jeremi in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.
The governor, who stressed the need for unity among the Urhobo political class, highlighted the selfless contributions of the former deputy governor.
Oborevwori said: “I am very happy to be here today, seeing this large gathering for one man. The preaching today is not about the dead, it is about the living.
“There are many things our former deputy governor did while he was alive. I will mention just a few key ones.
“He donated the land allocated to him in Asaba while he was deputy governor to the Catholic Church.
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“He also contributed to the building of the church. To me, that is a kingdom investment.
“When you are leading your children, some are in APC, some are in Labour Party, some are here, and I asked him (Ibori), ‘when is he going to join us?’ And I know he will join us very soon in APC. I will receive our leader in Jesus name.”
Oborevwori prayed that the passing of the deceased would bring peace and unity to Ughelli South and the entire Urhobo ethnic group.
In his exhortation, the Bishop of Catholic Diocese of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ewherido, said Utuama lived an impactful life in both the church and society.
Ewherido condoled with the family, urging them to uphold the legacies of their father which were: godliness, humility, charity and selflessness.
The bishop described the death of a Christian as a transition to eternal glory and reminded everyone of the need to accept Christ while alive to enjoy eternity after physical death.
He also called for continued unity among the political class for the peace and development of the state.
Speaking on behalf of the family, the son of the deceased, Ovie Utuama, appreciated everyone for their support and requested prayers for the family during the difficult period.
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