Benin, Edo, Nigeria – By Oladipo Airenakho.
As Edo people mourn the death of their State Assembly member representing Etsako East Constituency, Hon. Peter Aliu, the state Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole in an emotion-laden speech on Sunday described the departed lawmaker as a man of character and principle.
The state chief Executive who made the comment during a condolence visit to late Hon. Aliu’s widow, Mrs. Mary Aliu said he was a man who never wavered on his stand once made.
He was accompanied on the visit by top government officials, including his Deputy, Dr. Pius Odubu and Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Uyigue Igbe.
Hon. Aliu passed away at the age of 61 during the early hours of last Sunday at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital in Benin after a brief illness.
“Aliu was my brother. In moments of temptation, he showed courage and good character. When people plotted to betray us, he stood firm, remained on the side of fairness, justice and principle. When people brought money, he refused money in favour of principle,” comrade Oshiomhole remarked.
Governor Oshiomhole remembered the lawmakers as one who always put other people first, recalling how he was more concerned about “my political wellbeing rather than his own health,” the last time he saw and had a conversation with him.
“His colleagues and I called him our father because Aliu conducted himself as a father of everyone not because he was old, but just a statement of his character, fatherly disposition and his commitment to bring everybody together.”
“He never raised his voice even when the house had problem. When we heard of his condition, we were prepared to do everything that is within human power but we recognized that our will is one thing, but God’s decision is final.”
Governor Oshiomhole who for the most time during the visit sounded philosophical and spiritual while addressing the late Aliu’s widow said this: “When I look at the timing of everything, it is clear that this is how God wanted it. As a believer, I am not in a position to question God when he makes His decision.”
Continuing, the Governor stated “Even as it is, I cannot dispute it, I cannot question the time because if I do, I will be committing a sin but I ask you to take heart as nothing I can say will mitigate your pain but God will mitigate those pains and provide for your children.”
He prayed God to grant the soul of the deceased eternal rest and protection for the widow, children and other family members left behind.
On his part, the Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly, Hon Uyi Igbe said they will all miss the fatherly role of Hon Peter Aliu.
According to him, “The advice we got from him, I do not know how it can be replaced. His astuteness, respect and political dexterity are unqualifiable, however, God has decided, He knows the best. In everything, He said we should give thanks and praise unto Him.”
He advised his widow to have implicit belief in God, assuring the family that Edo State Legislature will accord the family the desired assistance.
In his remark, Mr. Haruna Aliu on behalf of the deceased’s family expressed profound appreciation to the Governor, his deputy, Dr Pius Odubu and other top government functionaries for their condolence visit, saying that the death of his eldest brother was the will of Almighty Allah and not of man.
According to him, “He has been a father to all and I know that this death is a big blow not only to the Alliu’s family but to the state.”
Hon. Peter Aliu is survived by his wife, Mary and six children.
