By Cajetan Mmuta
Labour Party Chieftain and former governorship candidate in the 2021 gubernatorial election in Anambra state, Chief Valentine Ozigbo has condoled the families of 13 dead and other injured young officers of the Salvation Army of Nigeria, who were involved in a ghastly accident recently in Lagos state.
He described the death of the officers as a “sad and monumental loss at a time their services were most needed.”
Ozigbo stated this during his visit to the Salvation Army Nigeria Territory at Shomolu, Lagos headquarters of the Christian Evangelical Organisation.
He said the visit was to show empathy for the recent tragic accident that resulted in the loss of thirteen young officers of the Salvation Army and left five persons in critical condition at specialised centres facilitated by Apostle Nnamdi Mbaigbo, Founder of the Tropical Gate Foundation for Sustainable Development.
Among the Salvation Army officers, who lost their lives in the tragic road accident were Major Emem Udobong, Major Sunday Sampson, Major Uyime Ekere, Major Emem Obot, Captain Edet Akpanumana, Lieutenant Margate Nsima, and others.
He also extolled the virtues of the departed and offered prayers for the repose of their souls.
Ozigbo also expressed commitment to joining the Salvation Army family in their upcoming special prayers towards the funeral services of the deceased on Thursday.
According to him, “We were all shocked and saddened when we heard the tragic news. The extent of this loss is monumental as all our departed brothers and sisters were devoted and faithful individuals.”
“Through their steadfast faith and diligent service, they profoundly impacted the Salvation Army Nigeria and the body of Christ. I am here to express deep condolences to you, Commander Kasuso and the entire grieving Salvation Army.”
“I pray for comfort and solace for those mourning and for the departed to find eternal rest in God’s heavenly kingdom,” Ozigbo added.
The LP chieftain was received on the visit by the Territorial leaders of the body, Commander Daniel Kasuso and Chief Secretary Lt Col Christian Azubuike.
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Kasuso, in his welcome speech, expressed gratitude for Ozigbo’s visit and recalled the difficulties faced by the organisation due to the tragedy and the immeasurable pain felt by the victims’ families, comrades, and friends of the departed.
The Salvation Army Territorial Commissioner said that Ozigbo’s visit had brought a sense of hope and joy to the grieving organisation.
“Indeed, these times have been challenging for our organisation, and the pain of our loss is immense. However, your visit today brings us joy and hope. We appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedule to stand with us in our time of need,” said Kasuso.
Ozigbo was also a Special Adviser to Mr Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate in the 2023 general elections.
