The body of renowned obstetrician and gynaecologist, Dr Felix Amasihohu Ekhaguere was interred yesterday in Benin, the Edo State Capital amid tributes from dignitaries drawn from different walks of life.
The renowned physician passed on at the age of 84 on June 1, this year after a brief illness.
At his funeral mass held at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Mission Road, Benin, Fr. Emmanuel Oviasogie described late Dr. Ekhaguere as a devout Roman Catholic baptised at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Mission Road- the very church where his funeral mass took place.
He was a member of the knight of St Mulumba (KSM),serving as Grand Knight of the New Benin Subordinate Council, attaining the 4th Degree of the Order.
In his tribute, Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima noted that although words could not capture the void created by the passing of a parent, he implored the Ekhaguere family to draw consolation that their late father devoted his life for humanity.
Said he:” Through decades of service (as obstetrician and gynaecologist),Dr Ekhagure offered hope to families at moments of anxiety, brought joy through the safe arrival of new lives,and earned the gratitude of generations whose stories were forever changed by his care”
In his tribute, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja desribed his in-law as a stand-out physician, distinguished public servant and medical administrator of no mean repute, saying Dr Ekhagure who adopted him as his twin- brother deserved to be celebrated for a life well spent.
Said he: “We knew Dr Ekhaguere as a distinguished physician and committed family man who balanced his supreme devotion and unwavering commitment to heal others with his family commitment.
The amazing love and care he poured into his family is reflected in the upbringing of our daughter- in- law, Adesuwa Ladoja, and indeed her siblings.
We couldn’t ask for a better wife for our son, Muyi Adedamola Ladoja”.
His wife of 54 years, Mrs Sweet Madagwa Ekhaguere recalled that every January 1 was their marriage anniversary.
She said of her late husband. “Through life’s joys and challenges, you were a steady presence in our home,and in the lives of our family. You were a dedicated father, grandfather and provider.
“You worked hard,carried your responsibilities with quiet strength and cared deeply about the well-being of those around you.”
Adeola Oloko,
Media Aide,
Olubadan of Ibadanland
His imperial Majesty,
Oba Rashidi Ladoja,Arusa 1
