Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta on Monday expressed sadness on the passing of two of his aides, Chief Friday Akpoyibo and Chief Godspower Muemuifo.

Akpoyibo died on Sunday while Muemuifo’s death occurred on Wednesday, March 4, 2020. Until their demise, both were Senior Special Assistants to the Governor on Political Matters.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, on Monday in Asaba, Okowa commiserated with the families of the deceased and their communities of Orogun in Ughelli North Local Government Area and Egbo-Ide in Ughelli South Local Government Area, respectively.

For Akpoyibo, who was Chairman, Transition Committee of Ughelli North Local Government Area between 2012 and 2014 and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, he described him as a “grassroots and thoroughbred politician and administrator.’’

Okowa said that the deceased was loved by his people because of his strong convictions and truthful disposition at all times.

On Muemuifo, a former Secretary to Ughelli South Local Government Council, he said that he was an astute politician, complete party man and trusted leader at the grassroots who would be sadly missed.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of renowned grassroots politicians, Chief Godspower Muemuifo and Chief Friday Akpoyibo, who passed on March 4, 2020 and March 8, 2020, respectively.

“The news of their passing was saddening because they were formidable pillars of our party in their areas.

“They were trusted politicians who distinguished themselves in the service of their people in different capacities, and were honest and truthful men who spoke truth to power.

“These gentle party men will be greatly missed by the entire Ughelli South, Ughelli North people and Deltans, especially those they had had dealings with,” Okowa stated.

He prayed God to accept the deceased’s souls and grant fortitude to their families and friends to bear the loss.