Governor of Delta and Vice-Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, has condoled the with Christian community and Isoko nation in Delta on the passing of foremost cleric, Archbishop Christian Apena.
Apena, the founder of Bethesda Gospel Mission International Inc, Irri, Isoko South Local Government Area of the state, reportedly died on Sunday night at 91.
The Governor noted that the late cleric was aged, his demise was shocking because there was no report that he was sick before the incident.
He said in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika in Asaba, that Apena’s death was a big loss to the Christian community in Delta, especially for his vibrant teachings and wise counsels at all times.
He also commiserated with the family, Christian Association of Nigeria, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Irri community and the entire Isoko nation on the demise of the renowned preacher.
The governor urged them to be consoled by the legacies of integrity and sound biblical teachings that the deceased espoused while working in the Lord’s vineyard until his final breathe.
He assured the family and the Bethesda Church of the support and prayers of his family, Delta Government and people of the state at this trying period.
“It is with sadness that I, my family, the government and people of Delta commiserate with the Christian community, the Apena family and all Isoko people on the passing of Nonagenerian cleric, Archbishop Christian Ovwoma Apena.
“He was a strong voice in the Christian community where he taught the word of God without fear or favour.
“His death, no doubt, is a great loss not just to his family and the Christian community but to our state and nation. His teachings and support for the work of Christ spanning over 49 years will be evidently missed.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, the CAN and members of Bethesda Gospel Mission that the soul of the deceased repose peacefully and the family given the fortitude to bear his demise,” the governor said.
