The family of Deacon Gabriel Oriaifo of Atuagbo Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area of Edo State, has announced a programme of obsequies for their patriarch, who died at the age of 78.
Oriaifo is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, in-laws and other relations.
The family said his passage has left a deep void in the lives of all who knew him.
According to them, Oriaifo was a man whose life was rooted in faith and family.
His seven decades on earth, spanning a Nigeria that moved from the twilight of colonial rule through independence and into the present day, were marked by the quiet devotion that those closest to him say defined him.
Dr. Oseremen Oriaifo, on behalf of the family, announced that funeral activities will commence on Thursday, with a service of songs at God’s People World Wide Prayer Ministry, Illeh Ekpoma, Edo State, the church where he worshipped and served.
On Friday, the body will be laid in state. It will depart Irrua Specialist Hospital to his residence at Zaiki Akhimen in Eguare Ekpoma, where family members, friends and well-wishers will have an opportunity to pay their last respects before the cortege moves. Interment proceedings are scheduled to begin immediately, with the body departing for his hometown at Atuagbo, Irrua, Edo State, where he will be committed to earth.
The entertainment of guests and social gathering will hold on Saturday, at Eguare Primary School, Edo State, where friends, associates and community members are expected to gather to celebrate his life and the legacy he leaves behind.
A thanksgiving service will hold on Sunday at God’s People World Wide Prayer Ministry, Illeh Ekpoma, Edo State, to bring the week of funeral activities to a close.