By joshua Catholic Priest, Fr Obinyan Celebrates Igbinedion At 92, Says Legacy ‘ill Endure
By Ikhili Ebalu, Benin city
Edo Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Dr. Andrew Obinyan, has celebrated Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom, describing him as a revered living legend.
Obinyan, in a birthday message on Tuesday in Benin said the elder statesman had remained relevant across generations through vision, resilience, service, and enduring impact.
He said Igbinedion had built bridges rather than barriers, maintaining an open-door policy that enabled people from diverse backgrounds to access him freely without difficulty.
According to him, despite attaining extraordinary heights, Igbinedion has remained humble and grounded, never allowing wealth, influence, or social standing to distance him from people.
“Your life reminds us that greatness is not measured by how far one rises, but by how closely one remains connected to people,” Obinyan said.
Obinyan said Igbinedion’s humility had illuminated his accomplishments, while his generosity had deepened the meaning of his success and endeared him to generations of people.
He said the celebrant’s philanthropy and commitment to humanity had transformed lives, created opportunities, inspired hope, and positively impacted countless individuals and communities across Nigeria.
Obinyan noted that Igbinedion’s legacy extended beyond monuments, institutions, and material accomplishments, stressing that his greatest footprints remained deeply within lives he touched most personally.
“History will remember you, future generations will study your journey, and those who encountered your kindness will continue to tell your remarkable story, Obinyan added.
He congratulated Igbinedion on attaining 92 remarkable years, describing himself and others as blessed to have witnessed and greatly benefited from his wisdom and benevolence.
Obinyan prayed that Almighty God would preserve Igbinedion in sound health, strengthen him with vitality, and crown his remaining years with abundant grace and joy.