Lagos Stands Still As TOS Benson Is Buried

Adewale Ajayi, Lagos - 01.03.2008

As a sign of respect to the late Chief Theophilus Sobowale Benson (SAN), Ikorodu town in Lagos State was practically shut down yesterday (Friday) as markets, shops and roads were closed as his body was committed to mother earth amidst tributes and farewell messages from his admirers.

The final burial rite, which was witnessed by dignitaries across the country, was attended by Vice-President Goodluck Jonathan; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN); immediate past Governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; Minister of Information and Communication, Mr. John Odey, and Minister of State for Agriculture, Mr. Demola Seriki.

The American High Commissioner in Nigeria and the Ghanaian and Liberian ambassadors were also there, as well as other dignitaries, including Chief Olabode George, Ambassador Matthew Mbu and Prof. Laz Ekwueme.

Those who paid tributes to the pioneer Minister for Information, Culture and Broadcasting described him as a patriotic Nigerian who was committed to the advancement of his father land.

Governor Fashola in his address described him as a patriotic person and a man full of wisdom and candour.

Reading a condolence message sent by President Umaru Yar’Adua, Vice-President Goodluck Jonathan described the late politician as a man who lived his life in the service of his country.

Prof. Ekwueme described him as a detribalised Nigerian who created a bridge between the South-West and South-East. That, he noted, explained why the Igbo sent a strong delegation to his burial.

Preaching at a Christian service held for him by Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ikorodu branch, Bishop R. A Oguntuase of Comforter Bible Church urged everybody to live a life worthy of emulation because each person would give account of how he lived his life before his Creator.

He said the essence of living was to lay good example for others to follow. He called on all to keep God’s commandment.

Reading from Revelation 14:13, he said it was only a well spent life in Christ that could reign with Christ in the end.

As a sign of honour and respect, traditional rulers across Yoruba land equally sent delegates with their staff of office to the burial.

Among the traditional rulers who sent representatives were the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade; Awujale of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Adetona; Alake of Egba land, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo; Akarigbo of Sagamu, Oba Adeniyi Sonariwo; Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Salaudeen Oyefusi; Alaaye of Ode Remo, Oba Funsho Adeolu and many others.

Many residents of the town had to climb rooftops to catch a glimpse of the event.