Orbih was a courageous, kind party loyalist, says Imasuagbon - Punch Newspapers
A stalwart of the African Democratic Congress and former Edo State governorship aspirant, Kenneth Imasuagbon, has described the late Dan Orbih as a courageous, compassionate and loyal politician whose death has left a deep vacuum in Edo State’s political landscape. Imasuagbon, in a statement on Sunday, said he received the news of Orbih’s passing with shock and sadness, recalling that the former Peoples Democratic Party National Chairman was not only a consummate politician but also a kind-hearted man whose generosity touched many lives, especially during moments of adversity. Imasuagbon said one of the greatest acts of kindness he would never forget was Orbih’s support after he was involved in an accident and was receiving treatment at a London hospital. He also recalled that during the administration of former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, he and Orbih jointly led the opposition in Edo State, describing the deceased’s residence in Benin as a rallying point for party faithful and democracy advocates. He said, “Orbih was a compassionate and loyal politician whose death has left a deep vacuum in Edo State’s political landscape.See more Punch stories on Google.Add Punch on Google “When I had an accident, Orbih was one of those who sent money to me on my hospital bed in London. He, alongside the late Chief Tony Anenih and Senator Clifford Ordia, stood by me during that difficult period. I will never forget that gesture. Some of us can only reciprocate such kindness today through prayers and honouring his memory. “Orbih was a man of uncommon courage. At the height of the political struggle, his house became our meeting point. He never wavered in defending democracy and standing by those he believed in,” he stated. He said Orbih’s colourful personality and uncommon ability to inspire supporters during political campaigns were second to none, noting that the late PDP stalwart brought humour and entertainment into politics. 2027: Explain how fuel subsidy plan will work, APC tells Atiku Natasha mourns ex-Kogi gov Idris Ex-Kogi gov Ibrahim Idris dies in UK Imasuagbon noted that Orbih remained a committed party man who loved Edo people passionately and dedicated his life to the advancement of democracy. “Under his leadership, we both toured the 192 wards campaigning. He was kind-hearted, loyal to his party and deeply committed to the people of Edo State,” he said. “Orbih was a fair and just politician. During the 2022 national delegate contest in Esan South-East Local Government Area, which I defeated Giwa Agbomerere, Orbih faced intense pressure that my name should be dropped because I would vote for Atiku Abubakar instead of Wike, even at gunpoint. “He resisted the pressure and kept my name on the list. I won the contest squarely, and he said his conscience would not allow him to remove my name from the delegate list,” he added. Imasuagbon extended heartfelt condolences to Orbih’s family, praying that God would grant them the strength to bear the irreparable loss. Recall that the Orbih family, on September 1, announced the death of the prominent Edo politician. In a statement by the deceased’s younger brother, Francis, Orbih passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026. Adeyinka Adedipe
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