The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of his Special Adviser on Arewa Matters, Danjuma Garba.
In a press release issued by Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Patrick Akhere Ebojele, on Saturday, January 10, Okpebholo said Garba passed away in the early hours of today (Saturday) after a brief illness, describing the loss as a painful blow to his administration and the state at large.
According to the Governor, the late adviser played a crucial role in strengthening ties between the government and the Arewa community in Edo State, earning widespread respect for his calm disposition and commitment to peaceful coexistence.
Garba, as noted in the statement, was widely regarded as a dependable public servant who worked tirelessly to promote unity, dialogue, and mutual understanding among the diverse groups living in the state.
Governor Okpebholo described him as a trusted confidant whose contributions extended beyond official duties, noting that his guidance was of immense value to the administration.
“The news of Alhaji Danjuma Garba’s passing is a heavy blow to this administration and the entire Edo State family. He was more than a political appointee; he was a peacemaker who worked day and night to ensure that the diverse voices of our state were heard and harmonised. His sudden departure has left a vacuum that will be difficult to fill,” the Governor said.
He added, “On behalf of the Government and people of Edo State, I extend my deepest condolences to his family and the Arewa community.”
The Governor also directed that prayers be offered for the repose of the soul of the deceased and for his family to be granted the strength to cope with the loss.
The statement concluded with prayers for divine mercy, asking that Allah grant Alhaji Danjuma Garba Aljannatul Firdaus.