Benin City, Nigeria – Madam Esther Imaguomwanruo Idahosa (née Enabulele), mother of the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, has passed away. She died on Wednesday at the age of 95 after a brief illness.
The sad news was officially announced through a statement issued by the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Mr. Friday Aghedo. The statement described the deceased as a venerable matriarch whose long and impactful life touched many within her immediate family and the larger community.
“Madam Esther Imaguomwanruo Idahosa lived a long and fulfilling life marked by unwavering faith in God, strength of character, and total dedication to the service of her family and humanity,” the statement read. “Her remarkable legacy of wisdom, resilience, and godly counsel was a source of pride and inspiration to all who knew her.”
The Idahosa family, while expressing deep sorrow, also gave thanks to God for granting their mother a long and fruitful life. They acknowledged the enduring values she instilled in her children and grandchildren, noting that these principles would remain a guiding light for future generations.
The family appealed for prayers and understanding from friends, associates, and the general public as they navigate this period of mourning. “We request the support of prayers from all well-meaning Nigerians as we grieve the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother,” the statement added.
Madam Idahosa’s death comes at a significant time for the Edo State Government, where her son, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, serves as Deputy Governor under Governor Monday Okpebholo. Political observers note that the late matriarch was known within political and traditional circles in Edo State as a pillar of support for her son’s public service journey.
Born into the Enabulele family, Madam Idahosa was widely respected for her deep Christian faith and commitment to moral upbringing. She was regarded as a devout believer who raised her children with strong ethical standards, discipline, and a sense of community responsibility. Many who interacted with her described her as a woman of quiet strength whose prayers and wise counsel helped shape the lives of those around her.
Hon. Dennis Idahosa, who has enjoyed a relatively successful career in politics, has often spoken publicly about the immense role his mother played in his life. Though still coming to terms with the loss, sources close to the Deputy Governor say he remains grateful for the years he spent with her and the solid foundation she provided.
As news of her passing spread across Edo State and beyond, tributes began pouring in from government officials, traditional rulers, political leaders, and members of the public. Many described her as an embodiment of grace, dignity, and motherhood.
The Deputy Governor’s Office confirmed that funeral arrangements are being finalised by the family. Details of the burial service, including wake-keeping, lying-in-state, and interment, will be announced in due course through official channels and major national newspapers.
This development has elicited an outpouring of condolences from across the political divide. Several prominent Nigerians, including governors, senators, and party leaders from both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties, have reached out to the Idahosa family to express their sympathy.
In a show of solidarity, some Edo State government officials visited the family home in the early hours following the announcement to commiserate with them. Governor Monday Okpebholo is also expected to pay a personal condolence visit to the family shortly.
Madam Idahosa’s life spanned nearly a century, covering significant periods in Nigeria’s history – from the colonial era through independence, military rule, and the current democratic dispensation. Those close to the family say she witnessed and quietly influenced many transformations within her community and family.
Her passing is being viewed not merely as the loss of an individual but as the transition of a generational matriarch whose values continue to resonate in public service through her son. Political analysts suggest that such family losses often serve as moments of reflection for serving public officers, reminding them of their roots and the sacrifices of those who came before them.
As the Idahosa family prepares to lay their matriarch to rest, the focus remains on celebrating a life well lived rather than dwelling solely on the pain of separation. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren are said to be drawing strength from her teachings and the assurance of her faith.
The brief illness that claimed her life was managed with the best medical attention available, according to family sources, but her advanced age ultimately took its toll. She passed peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
In many Nigerian cultures, the death of a nonagenarian is often celebrated as a transition to glory, especially when the deceased lived a righteous and impactful life. Madam Idahosa’s story fits this narrative perfectly – a woman who raised leaders, maintained strong family ties, and left behind a reputation of integrity.
The entire Edo State, particularly supporters of the Okpebholo-Idahosa administration, has been thrown into mourning. Flags at some government buildings are expected to fly at half-mast in her honour once official announcement protocols are completed.
As details of the funeral emerge in the coming days, many are expected to troop to Edo State to pay their last respects to this remarkable woman who, though not in the limelight, played a foundational role in the life of one of the state’s current top public officials.
Madam Esther Imaguomwanruo Idahosa may have left this earthly realm, but her legacy of faith, wisdom, and maternal strength is certain to live on through her descendants and all those whose lives she touched during her 95 remarkable years.
