Osinbajo says late minister was humble, faithful servant

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Thursday described late the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, James Ocholi SAN, as a humble and faithful servant.

Osinbajo said this at the Service of Songs for the late minister, his wife, Mrs Blessing Ocholi and son, Mr Joshua Ocholi in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that on March 6, the minister, his wife and son died in auto accident along Kaduna-Abuja express road.

"The APC has lost a pioneer member and a distinguished servant of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"President i has also confirmed this through his words, that the late minister has shown humility and selflessness when he accepted to serve as a deputy legal adviser to his subordinate colleague, professionally.

"The President has said that Ocholi’s action was in order to stabilize the party and to ensure that the party's interest was not jeopardized.

"I also want to say that the Federal Executive Council has also testified to Ocholi’s insightful contributions, strong values and integrity,’’ he added.

He said that with Ocholi’s death, Nigeria has lost a true patriot.

The Vice President said Ocholi was indeed a God fearing man and this has reflected in everything he does.

He added that James Ocholi was truly honest person, saying that political leaders must emulate such attitude.

In his tribute, Speaker, House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara called on Nigerians to immortalize the late Ocholi, describing him as a great Nigerian.

"It is not enough to remember the good things he did while he was alive. The best way to honour Ocholi is to replicate some of the legacies he left behind.

"Longevity is not measured on how much you have stayed while alive but rather how much impact you have made on the people,’’ he said.

NAN reports that the sermon was taken by Archbishop Sam Amaga, Foundation of Faith Church (Salem Family Worldwide), who dwells on humility, a drive for excellence and services to God.

NAN also reports that other top dignitaries who were present at the service of songs included, Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige.

Others are the Minister of Power Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), Minister of Health, APC National Chairman, John Oyegun among others.