It is with sadness but glory to God Almighty that the Government of Edo State announces the death, in the early hours of today, of Brigadier General (rtd) Dr. Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia.
Dr. Ogbemudia served as Military Governor of the Mid-West State from 1967 to 1975 and Executive Governor of the old Bendel State from October 1983 to December 1983.
He was also a former Minister of Labour and Productivity, former Chairman of Petroleum Products Monitoring Company, and Chairman Governing Council of the University of Abuja.
A fine Military officer who helped to liberate the Mid-West region during the Civil War, under his administration, Bendel became a leading state in education, sports and industry.
As two time Governor of Bendel, which comprised present-day Edo and Delta states, Dr. Samuel Ogbemudia will be fondly remembered for the strong foundation that he laid to consolidate the infrastructural, social and economic development of both states.
Amongst his several milestone achievements was the Mid-West Institute of Technology, which is now the University of Benin.
As we mourn our great leader and father, we take solace in the legacies he bequeathed Edo State and indeed Nigeria
As a mark of honour, I hereby declare 7 days of mourning commencing from today.
May the soul of General (Dr.) Samuel Ogbemudia rest in peace.
Governor Godwin Obaseki
