Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Friday urged political office holders to prioritise service and unity as the late former senator Peter Nwaoboshi was laid to rest in his hometown of Ibusa, Oshimili North Local Government Area.

Nwaoboshi, who represented Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly from 2015 to 2023, died in Abuja on December 19, 2025, at the age of 68 after a brief illness.

Speaking at the funeral Mass held at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Ibusa, Oborevwori described public office as a sacred trust bestowed by God and the people for the common good.

“The life and passing of Senator Nwaoboshi should remind leaders at all levels that public office is a sacred trust,” the governor said, urging political actors to rise above bitterness and rivalry in the interest of national development.

“Power is transient. Positions are temporary. But the legacy of service endures,” he added, stressing that history judges leaders by the impact they make rather than the titles they hold.

Oborevwori described the late lawmaker as a bridge-builder and patriot whose contributions strengthened democratic governance and Nigeria’s unity. He also reassured Deltans of his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth and responsible leadership.

In his homily, the Vicar-General of the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku, Very Rev. Fr. Peter Mobuogwu, reflected on hope, accountability, and divine justice, reminding the congregation that “the souls of the righteous are in the hands of God.”

The funeral drew prominent dignitaries from across the country, including Ahmad Lawan, former Delta State governors James Ibori and Ifeanyi Okowa, and former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege, among other federal and state lawmakers.

The ceremony underscored calls for unity and purposeful collaboration, with speakers emphasising that Nigeria’s progress depends on collective responsibility and selfless service.