Oborevwori Hails Asagba of Asaba at 70, Describes Reign as One of Peace and Humility

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, on his 70th birthday, describing his reign as a beacon of peace, humility, and service to humanity.

Speaking on Thursday at a thanksgiving Mass held at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church, West-End, Asaba, to mark the monarch’s platinum jubilee, Governor Oborevwori said the Asagba’s life exemplifies wisdom, integrity, and divine grace.

“I am very happy for this celebration because it is important that when God takes you to a particular level in life, you come back to appreciate Him,” the Governor said. “This thanksgiving is special because it is not just another birthday; it is an offering of gratitude for seventy years of divine mercy, strength, and grace.”

Oborevwori praised the Asagba’s leadership, noting that his reign has been marked by peace, humility, and understanding.

“Your Majesty, your life is a living testimony of wisdom,” he said. “From the classroom to the throne, you have demonstrated excellence, honesty, and service. As a lawyer and teacher, you helped shape minds and institutions across Nigeria and beyond. As a royal father, you have guided your people with grace, fostering unity and progress in Asaba and Delta State.”

The Governor commended the monarch for his unwavering support to the state government and his exemplary devotion to duty.

“There is no invitation too small for His Majesty to honour. He attends every event, even at short notice. That humility and commitment inspire us all,” Oborevwori said. “I am proud to celebrate you not only as a traditional ruler but as a symbol of what it means to combine talent, purpose, and service for the good of society.”

Quoting Proverbs 16:31, the Governor described the Asagba’s gray hair as “a crown of glory gained through a righteous life,” and prayed for continued strength, wisdom, and long life for the royal father.

He also appreciated the monarch’s wife for her steadfast support, noting, “Your wife has stood by you faithfully. I have known her for many years, and I must thank her for being a pillar of strength in your journey of service to God and humanity.”

Governor Oborevwori further thanked the people of Asaba Kingdom for their loyalty and unity, which, he said, have contributed to the peace and success of the Asagba’s reign.

“To the good people of Asaba Kingdom, I say thank you for your support and for standing firmly with your monarch. Your Majesty, happy 70th birthday. May these years bring you more joy, peace, and fulfillment,” he said.

Earlier in his homily, the Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, described the occasion as a moment of thanksgiving and reflection on a life dedicated to God and humanity.

Drawing from Psalm 90, Cardinal Onaiyekan noted that seventy is a time to look back with gratitude and forward with faith, commending the Asagba for his steadfastness, wisdom, and compassion.

He said, “The Asagba of Asaba is a true monarch who has served God and humanity with love, integrity, and commitment.”