Shettima pays tribute to Elumelu’s father-in-law at Delta funeral

By: Juliet Bitrus Julius 

Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has paid tribute to the late Sir Israel S. Chinwuba Ogbue, father-in-law of Tony Elumelu, describing him as a man whose legacy will endure across generations.

Shettima spoke while leading a Federal Government delegation to Ogbue’s funeral in Onicha-Olona, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, where he also conveyed the condolences of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the family, the community, and the state.

“On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I extend our deepest condolences and respect to the family and the people of Delta State. We honour the life he lived and the example he set,” Shettima said in a statement issued by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha.

The Vice President described the late Ogbue, who died on February 18, 2026, as a man of resilience, dignity and gratitude, noting that his life reflected strength and wisdom.

He said the occasion should not only be a period of mourning but also a celebration of a life defined by service and impact.

“At moments like this, what matters most is the life behind the titles. He served, he guided, and he left things better than he found them,” Shettima added.

While consoling Elumelu, Shettima highlighted Ogbue’s role during key moments in the growth of the United Bank for Africa, noting that his influence helped maintain strong moral direction within the institution.

The ceremony attracted dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, reflecting the late patriarch’s influence and the respect he commanded.

During a condolence visit to the Elumelu family home, Shettima was conferred with the traditional title “Odoziani 1 of Aniocha” in recognition of his contributions to national development and support for the local community.