Former governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole has expressed shock and sadness over the demise of Sir Victor Uwaifo.
Gatekeepers News reports that the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole has expressed shock and sadness over the death of world-class maestro and living music legend Sir (Prof.) Victor Uwaifo who died on Saturday.
Oshiomhole in a statement made available by his media aide, Victor Oshioke, said it is a gloomy day for Nigeria, the music world, and Edo people everywhere especially at this time when we were celebrating the 30th anniversary of the creation of our beloved state.
The statement read, “I received with shock and sadness, the news about the passing of Sir Victor Efosa Uwaifo at the age of 80 years.”
The former APC chairman said, “As mortals, every living person will depart this world at some point, nevertheless it takes us by surprise when an idol like Victor Uwaifo, who has inspired generations and his name deeply embedded in our consciousness from time immemorial departs so suddenly. It is a gloomy day for us especially at this time that we are celebrating the 30th anniversary of the creation of our beloved state.”
Oshiomhole described Uwaifo as “a great cultural influencer, a multi-talented artist, songwriter, theorist, inventor, academician, administrator, a master of colors and designs and above all, a humanist who used his songs to aptly encapsulate all circumstances of human existence and our relationship with the divine.”
He added that “the deceased was indeed a world-class maestro and living legend for at least 5 out of his 8 decades in life.”
The statement read further, “Sir Victor Uwaifo distinguished himself by not taking for granted his talents and natural endowments in the arts. But even as a world renowned, successful and decorated musician, he went back to the University for formal Higher Education and acquired degrees to the highest level as Doctor of Philosophy.”
Oshiomhole recalled his tenure as the Governor of Edo State, “I had cause to meet him on several occasions. In each of those instances, I was always impressed by his depth of knowledge and understanding of issues well beyond his areas of expertise. He was not just a lover of music and art, he loved people, was jovial, accommodating, and could lighten up the mood in any circumstance with his signature smile. Although he was non-partisan politically, he was quite supportive of my administration. He attended all engagements that we invited him to and obliged us with his evergreen tunes to the admiration of all present.”
The former Governor added that the “Guitar Boy” as he was fondly called will never be forgotten but will be remembered even by generations yet unborn.
He, therefore, sent his condolences to his wife, children, extended family, and the entire people of Edo State for this colossal loss, and prayed “we find consolation in the footprints he left behind in the sands of time.
“Also I humbly add my voice in prayers that he finds peace and eternal rest in paradise.”
