In a heartfelt celebration marked by gratitude and reverence, Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has extended warm congratulations to the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Obi (Prof.) Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, on the occasion of his 70th birthday. The governor portrayed the monarch's life and reign as an exemplary model of wisdom, integrity, humility, and unwavering service to both God and humanity. The milestone event was commemorated with a special thanksgiving Mass at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church in West-End, Asaba, on Thursday, drawing dignitaries, community leaders, and faithful adherents who gathered to honor a leader whose journey has profoundly impacted Nigeria's legal, academic, and traditional spheres.
Governor Oborevwori, addressing the congregation during the solemn service, emphasized the significance of the Asagba reaching the biblical milestone of "three score and ten" years in robust health and strength. He described the occasion not merely as a birthday but as a profound act of thanksgiving for seven decades of divine mercy, grace, and faithfulness. "I am very happy for this celebration because it is important that when God takes you to a particular level in life, you come back to appreciate Him," the governor stated. "This thanksgiving is special because it is not just another birthday; it is an offering of gratitude for seventy years of divine mercy, strength, and grace."
Delving deeper into the monarch's illustrious career, Governor Oborevwori traced the Asagba's path from academia and law to the throne, highlighting his transition as seamless and inspirational. Prof. Azinge, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), has long been recognized for his contributions as a legal luminary and educator. The governor noted how the royal father had shaped minds and institutions not only within Delta State but across Nigeria and internationally. "Your Majesty, your life is a living testimony of wisdom," Oborevwori declared. "From the classroom to the throne, you have demonstrated excellence, honesty, and service. As a lawyer and teacher, you helped shape minds and institutions across Nigeria and beyond. As a royal father, you have guided your people with grace, fostering unity and progress in Asaba and Delta State."
The governor's praise extended to the Asagba's leadership style, which he characterized as one steeped in peace, humility, and deep understanding. Under the monarch's reign, Asaba has experienced harmony and development, with the traditional ruler serving as a unifying force amid diverse community interests. Oborevwori particularly applauded the Asagba's unwavering support for the state government, describing him as a devoted partner in progress. "There is no invitation too small for His Majesty to honour. He attends every event, even at short notice; that humility and commitment inspire us all," the governor remarked. He expressed pride in celebrating the monarch not just as a traditional authority but as a symbol of how talent, purpose, and service can be harnessed for societal good.
Invoking biblical wisdom, Governor Oborevwori quoted Proverbs 16:31, referring to the Asagba's gray hair as "a crown of glory gained through a righteous life." He prayed earnestly for continued divine blessings upon the monarch, asking God to grant him sustained strength, wisdom, and longevity. This scriptural reference underscored the theme of a life well-lived in righteousness, resonating with the assembly's reflective mood.
Beyond the monarch himself, the governor acknowledged the pivotal role of his family and community. He commended Her Majesty, the Asagba’s wife, for her enduring support, revealing a personal connection by noting, "I have known her for many years, and I must thank her for being a pillar of support in your journey of service to God and humanity." This tribute highlighted the often-unsung contributions of spouses in leadership roles, adding a layer of warmth to the proceedings.
Governor Oborevwori also extended gratitude to the people of Asaba Kingdom for their loyalty and unity, which he said had been instrumental in ensuring a peaceful and successful reign. "To the good people of Asaba Kingdom, I say thank you for your support and for standing firmly with your monarch," he said. Concluding his address on an uplifting note, he wished the Asagba a happy 70th birthday, praying for more years filled with joy, peace, and fulfillment.
The thanksgiving Mass was enriched by a homily delivered by the Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, who framed the event as a dual moment of thanksgiving and introspection. Drawing from Psalm 90, the Cardinal reminded the gathering that "the Bible reminds us that seventy is the sum of our years. It is a time to look back with gratitude and look forward with faith." He praised the Asagba's steadfast faith, wisdom, and compassion, hailing him as "a true monarch who has served God and humanity with love, integrity, and commitment."
Cardinal Onaiyekan's message wove together themes of divine providence and human endeavor, encouraging all present to emulate the monarch's devotion. His words complemented the governor's sentiments, creating a cohesive narrative of celebration rooted in spirituality and communal harmony.
The event at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church was a vibrant affair, blending traditional elements with Catholic liturgy. Attendees included members of the Asaba royal council, government officials, clergy, and residents who turned out in large numbers to pay homage. The atmosphere was one of joy and reflection, with hymns of praise echoing through the church as a testament to the Asagba's enduring influence.
Prof. Epiphany Azinge's 70th birthday comes at a time when traditional institutions in Nigeria continue to play vital roles in governance, conflict resolution, and cultural preservation. His ascension to the throne of Asaba, the Delta State capital, has been marked by initiatives promoting education, peace-building, and community development. As a former Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, his scholarly background has informed his royal duties, making him a bridge between modern jurisprudence and age-old customs.
Governor Oborevwori's public laudation underscores the symbiotic relationship between the state government and traditional rulers in Delta State. Under the governor's administration, efforts to empower monarchs have been evident, recognizing their contributions to grassroots stability and progress. This birthday tribute reinforces that partnership, highlighting how figures like the Asagba embody the MORE Agenda—the governor's blueprint for Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.
As the celebrations concluded, the Asagba's platinum jubilee served as a reminder of the enduring value of principled leadership. In an era of rapid change, his story—from legal scholar to revered king—offers inspiration for younger generations. The outpouring of admiration from the governor, the Cardinal, and the community at large paints a portrait of a man whose legacy is built on service, faith, and unity.
In the words echoed throughout the service, the Asagba's 70 years are not just a personal triumph but a communal blessing. As Delta State looks to the future, the monarch's continued guidance promises to steer Asaba toward greater heights of peace and prosperity. Happy 70th birthday to His Royal Majesty Obi (Prof.) Epiphany Azinge—a life of wisdom in action, forever etched in the annals of Asaba's history.
