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By: Patrick Ochei

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Delta State Council, ably led by Comrade Michael Ikeogwu has visited with the family of late Chief Patrick Odua Iloba, the Olikeze of Asaba and Secretary, Asagba-in-Council to condole with them over the demise of their 91 year old father.

The NUJ Chairman, Michael Ikeogwu said though it was shocking to hear that Chief Iloba had left us at this time, we must be consoled by the fact that he lived a fulfilled life.

He described the late culture icon as not only a distinguished veteran journalist, but one who had made his mark in different areas of endeavour; including singing, authoring books, dancing, commentaries, and a great custodian of the traditions of Asaba in particular and of Anioma in general.

Ikeogwu also commended Papa’s eldest son, Mr. Henry Iloba for stepping up adequately to continue from where his father had stopped both in family unity, community efforts and the practice of journalism. Incidentally, Mr. Henry Iloba is the Chairman of the Federal Information Chapel of the NUJ in Delta State, and has distinguished himself as one of the highly respected elders of the Union and of course in his office at the Federal Ministry of Information, Delta State Secretariat, Asaba where he is an Assistant Director.

Ikeogwu also promised that the NUJ would take part adequately in the burial of Chief Olikeze which comes up in October. He said the Union would do the best it could to give Papa a befitting burial for his role towards the development of journalism in Nigeria, and for always being a part of Delta State Council activities all the time.

Responding, the eldest son in company of his two younger brothers appreciated the delegation for coming to visit with them and promising to furnish the Council with every information leading to the burial activities.

Late Chief Patrick Iloba, the Olikeze of Asaba served the Asaba community meritoriously as Secretary of the Asagba-in-Council. He served the former Asagba of Asaba before continuing with Asagba Prof. Chike Edozien until his death recently. He is 91 year old and survived by a well to do family.