By Sunday Apah
Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, his wife Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, and former Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa attended the funeral service of the late Mrs. Felicia Oritseolumewo Arenyeka on Friday.
She was the mother of Chief Solomon Arenyeka, the Delta State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The service took place at First Baptist Church in Warri. It drew political leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, family members and well-wishers who came to honour the deceased and offer comfort to the Arenyeka family.
Among those present were Lady Catherine Onyeme, wife of the Deputy Governor; Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly; Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas; Senator Ede Dafinone; Hon. Nicholas Mutu; Hon. Francis Waive and several other notable political and public figures.
In a sermon titled “Life’s Practical Challenges to Christians and Office Holders,” the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church, Warri, Rev. Jesse Okoroji Jnr., said the occasion was both a time of mourning and a celebration of a life that had positively influenced many people.
He described the late Mrs. Arenyeka as “a woman of songs,” adding that her life reflected beauty, inspiration and a beneficial impact on her family and community.
Rev. Okoroji called on Christians and those in leadership to recognise the real-life difficulties that come with living, leading and serving. He emphasised humility, steadfastness and faithfulness in carrying out their duties.
The pastor praised Governor Oborevwori for the significant progress recorded across Delta State, especially the ongoing urban renewal and infrastructure work that is transforming Warri. He singled out the Warri Urban Transformation programme, pointing to the construction of large flyovers, bridges and other urban facilities. According to him, these projects are giving Warri a fresh appearance that he compared to Dubai. He urged the governor to continue the efforts aimed at repositioning Warri and the state for lasting growth and prosperity.
Rev. Okoroji also thanked the governor for intervening on the Warri–Sapele–Benin Highway and appealed to the contractor to speed up the work so that motorists, passengers and residents who rely on the road can enjoy much-needed relief.
He further commended the governor for the peace that currently prevails in Delta State and prayed that peace, unity and security would continue. He noted that lasting development is possible only where peace and security exist.
The service gave those present a chance to reflect on the certainty of death, the duties of leadership and the lasting influence of a life well lived. Dignitaries and sympathisers offered their condolences to the Arenyeka family.
Mrs. Arenyeka was remembered as a woman whose values and example left a lasting mark on her family and everyone who knew her.
