Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has charged Nigeria’s political class to embrace unity, humility and a shared sense of purpose, stressing that the nation’s progress depends on cooperation and mutual respect rather than rivalry and bitterness.
The governor delivered the message on Friday at the Funeral Mass of late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, held at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Ibusa. He said the life and passing of the former lawmaker should serve as a sober reminder that public office is a sacred trust bestowed by God and the people for the common good.
According to Oborevwori, political power and titles are fleeting, but the impact of service endures. He urged leaders at all levels to govern with humility, engage one another with respect and remain conscious that history measures leadership by lives touched and values upheld.
He emphasized that national development thrives only in an atmosphere of peace and collaboration, noting that unity strengthens the country’s moral foundation while division weakens it. Nigeria, he said, must always come first.
Reassuring Deltans, the governor affirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive development, responsible governance and people-centred policies. He also consoled the family of the deceased, urging them to uphold the late senator’s name as a badge of honour and allow his legacy to inspire excellence, integrity and patriotism.
Reflecting on life and mortality, Oborevwori stated that true greatness is defined not by longevity but by the depth of one’s impact. He said the occasion was not only to mourn a distinguished son of Delta State but to reflect on the kind of nation Nigerians are building—one that places service above self, unity above division and country above personal ambition.
Drawing strength from the Christian hope of resurrection, the governor encouraged Nigerians to anchor their national reflections in faith, while renewing commitment to courage, representation and dedication to the people—values he said the late senator exemplified.
Describing Nwaoboshi as a bridge-builder and patriot, Oborevwori noted that his contributions transcended political affiliations and helped strengthen democratic governance in Nigeria.
In his homily, the Vicar-General of the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku, Very Rev. Fr. Peter Mobuogwu, preached on hope, accountability and divine justice, reminding the congregation that time ultimately belongs to God and that faithful service remains the pathway to eternal reward.
The Funeral Mass attracted eminent Nigerians from across political, ethnic and religious divides. Dignitaries in attendance included the governor’s wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme; former Senate President Ahmad Lawan; former Governors James Ibori and Ifeanyi Okowa; former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege; former Deputy Governor Deacon Kingsley Otuaro; as well as serving and former federal and state lawmakers.
The turnout underscored the enduring influence of the late senator, whose memory, the governor said, remains a blessing to Delta State and the nation.
