Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje and wife Lady Theresa Ogidi-Gbegbaje at the alter of St Ambrose Catholic Church, Ekpan thanking God for his Grace during his 60th birthday celebrations
By Jimmy Enyeh
Those who matter in Delta politics and civil service on Saturday converged on KFT event center, Ekpan, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State to celebrate the 60th birthday of Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, the erstwhile Permanent Secretary, Government House Asaba and currently the Chairman, Delta State Bureau for Pensions.
The event which had a touch of class, glamour and pageantry saw notable celebrities in attendance.
Trust Ogidi-Gbegbaje, not known as a man of half measured as guests were treated to exotic food and drinks.
Ogidi-Gbegbaje’s gallantry is priceless and like the proverbial titan who walks across his century and leaves the marks of his feet all over it, Ogidi-Gbegbaje rips out the entanglements on his galoshes as he traverses through life. In his little way,, he has contributed immensely to humanity, showing unconditional love, compassion, and concern for others. His passion for altruism towards others is unparalleled.
The thanksgiving mass was held at St Ambrose Catholic Church, Ekpan and Ogidi-Gbegbaje extolled God for his goodness and mercies. He recalled his upbringing and career experiences while growing, adding that the grace of God saw him through.
He said “I have remained steadfast and held on to God despite difficulties and challenges.”,
“God has brought me to this height and have continuosly being a source of strenght and protection for me and my family.”
He continued “At 60 years, my joy knows no bounds, the Grace of God has given me multiple cause to celebrate”.
In his sermon, Fr Tega Ogbeni the Parish Priest of St Ambrose Catholic Church, said that birthdays are not just reminder of passing years, but an opportunity to reflect and give thanks to God for physical and spiritual well-being. The Priest likened the importance of birthday thanksgiving to the leper in the Bible who returned to thank God after he was healed.
The Chairman of the occasion, and Commissioner for Works, Rural and Riverine Roads, Hon. Charles Aniagwu described the celebrant as a man that exemplified love and knows how to build bridges.
In the same vein, Chairman, Delta State Board of Internal Revenue and uncle to the celebrant, Hon. Solomon Ighrakpata described Ogidi-Gbegbaje as an embodiment of the Grace of God. He appreciated God for his life while wishing him a glorious 60th Birthday Anniversary celebration.
Those who came to add glamour to the event were the representative of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Chief of Staff, Prince Johnson Erijo, HRM Dr. Emmanuel Sideso JP, OON Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, Rt Hon Paul Onwusonya, former Speaker DTHA, former Peoples Democratic Party Delta State Chairman, Chief Kingsley Esisio who represented former Governor Okowa, Chairman.
Others are: Hon Edafe Emakpor, Member Representing Uvwie Constituency DTHA, the Delta State Head of Service represented By Sir Austine Oghoro, the Director General, Delta State Orientation Bureau and Communications, Bar Fred Latimore Oghesivwe, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Sheriff Oborewvori, Sir Festus Ahon, other serving and former goverment functioneries, Permanent Secretaries serving and retired, and other top government functionaries.
