The immediate past Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Deputy Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Chief Benjamin Elue, describing his death as both a personal loss and a monumental blow to Delta State.
In a statement on Sunday, Elumelu said he received news of the elder statesman’s peaceful transition with shock and disbelief, particularly as he had recently interacted with him during the ward and local government congresses of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Rt. Hon. Elumelu described the late Chief Elue as a great leader whose life was defined by uncommon humility, peaceful disposition, and exceptional resilience. He said the former Deputy Governor carried himself with dignity and simplicity despite his towering political stature and vast experience.
Highlighting his contributions to the development of Delta State, Elumelu recalled Chief Elue’s dedicated service as Deputy Governor between 1999 and 2007, during which he played a pivotal role in strengthening governance and fostering unity across the state. He particularly commended his unprecedented loyalty to the administration of Chief James Ibori, noting that he used his office to promote peace and stability through collaboration with traditional institutions across the three senatorial districts of Delta State.
“Chief Elue was a bridge-builder who understood the power of dialogue and traditional authority in sustaining peace,” Elumelu stated. “His calmness, wisdom, and fatherly counsel helped to stabilise the political and traditional structures of our dear state during critical moments.”
The former Minority Leader further lamented that he would greatly miss the wise counsel and fatherly guidance of the late statesman, describing him as a dependable elder whose words carried weight and direction.
According to Elumelu, Chief Elue actively participated in the congresses and offered advice that was profound, insightful, and invaluable to party faithful and stakeholders. He noted that throughout the period, the former Deputy Governor did not show any sign of weakness or ill health, making his sudden demise even more surprising.
While acknowledging the peaceful nature of Chief Elue’s transition, Elumelu extended his heartfelt sympathies to his wife, children, and the entire Elue family, praying that God grants them strength and comfort in this difficult time.
He prayed that God, in His infinite mercy, grants the soul of Chief Benjamin Elue, and the souls of all the faithful departed, eternal rest and perfect peace.
