Former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Dele Ezeoba (right) in a handshake with the Catholic Priest in Delta, Very Rev. Fr. Norbert Uchunor
By Dianabasi Effiong
A Catholic Priest in Delta, Very Rev. Fr. Norbert Uchunor, has called on leaders to endeavour to provide leadership of service to humanity at all times.
He made the call on Friday in a Homily at the Funeral Mass of late Chief Raphael Odiaka Ezeoba, father of former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Dele Ezeoba, at St. Thomas’ Catholic Church Ogbowele, Ibusa, Delta State, on Friday.
According to the Priest, leadership, which is beyond what one has been made to be and what one can acquire, includes good deeds and selfless service to the people.
Uchunor, who also urged leaders to be upright and always tell the truth, noted that grief should not only be expressed over the loss of a loved one but also about missing the good deeds of such persons.
He described the late Chief Ezeoba as a gentleman, a peacemaker, a devoted public servant, a community leader, and someone with very strong principles on his beliefs
“Today, we are celebrating a man of integrity, a life of faith, service, love, and forgiveness.
“A man whose life was an epitome of discipline, compassion, service to humanity, and faith in God,” the Priest said.
The Priest, who admonished Christians to live a good life, also said: “Legacy is not about the wealth we leave behind but, the goodness and love we exhibited while we are alive.
“Old age is not a curse, but it becomes a curse when elders who are leaders begin to tell lies and become dishonest, when elders who are leaders cannot stand for the truth.”
Rev. Fr. Uchunor enjoined all to continue to live right with God, to leave a legacy of integrity, righteousness, love, and peace rather than a legacy of wealth.
Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, former Governor, Chief James Ibori, former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Alexander Ogomudia, attended the funeral mass.
Oborevwori was represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme.
A retinue of retired and serving military officers and politicians, including Air Marshall O. Pentririn, Vice Adm. V.K Ombu, Lt. Gen. Ihejirika, Chief Patrick Ukah, Sen. Ovie Omo Agege, Prince Nduka Obaigbuna, Rep. Ndudi Elumelu, Comrade Ovuozorie Macaulay, Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, among others, also attended.
