October 13, 2014- Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State at the weekend called for collaboration and unity among Deltans as the body of the late President-General of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), Major-General Patrick Aziza was laid to rest at Adagbrassa-Ugolo in Okpe local government area of the state.
Speaking at the service, the governor said that it was imperative for the people to work together stressing that with unity, a lot could be achieved in the state.
“Let us work together because, if we work together, we will achieve what God has for us, we can achieve more by working together than working at cross purposes,” he said.
According to him, the late Aziza did not only contribute immensely to the unity of the Urhobos but also to the unity and development of the Nigerian nation, saying that the UPU President-General would also be remembered for his successful venture into the private sector after public service.
“The death of General Aziza is a great loss, I interacted with the General before he became the President-General of UPU, on behalf of the government and people of Delta State and I knew his worth. I commiserate with the Urhobos and the family of the late Aziza,” the Governor said.
“He (Aziza) was somebody that has contributed the unity of Nigeria and received the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) award which is only given to very few distinguished Nigerians. He served Nigeria gallantly and retired meritoriously, “he added.
The Governor also identified the late Aziza as a man who valued friendship which was evident by the way top military officials both serving and retired attended the burial ceremony.
The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Dr Steve Oru said: “Nigeria has lost a gentleman who served the nation meritoriously, he was a successful person. Aziza was not only a General in Nigerian Army, a Field Marshal to the Urhobo nation, he was also a true Nigerian.”
Rev. Fr. Mario Ozele at the funeral service, said life was a journey from birth to death. “We are only on a journey, and we should put God first in what we are doing. Today is the turn of Patrick Aziza, what will you be remembered for?” the Priest asked.
Uduaghan had attended the service of songs in honour of the Urhobo leader and statesman at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Sapele on Thursday as well as the UPU valedictory session at Agbarho
