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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed reports of a rift between him and Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, insisting that their relationship remains cordial.
Wike spoke on Saturday at the funeral Mass of late politician Dan Osi Orbih in Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State, where both men gathered to pay their last respects to the deceased.
“There is no problem between me and the governor; we are very close; we work together and we will continue to work together,” the minister said.
He described suggestions of a disagreement between them as misplaced, while thanking Okpebholo for receiving Orbih’s remains and paying his respects to the deceased at his residence in Benin City.
Wike said seeing the casket had brought home the reality of losing a close friend, adding that the family needed prayers and strength to bear the loss.
Okpebholo, who also spoke at the funeral, urged Nigerians, particularly public office holders, to lead selfless lives and use their positions to improve society.
The governor said Orbih’s death had reminded him of life’s uncertainty and the importance of making meaningful contributions while alive. He noted that wealth, political positions and personal achievements could not change the reality of death.
He also thanked Wike for standing by Orbih’s family during the difficult period.
In his homily, the Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Gabriel Dunia, urged Nigerians to reflect on the inevitability of death, regardless of their titles, qualifications, social status or achievements.
The funeral brought together political associates and dignitaries to honour Orbih, a former South-South National Vice-Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
