The legacy of late High Chief Sergeant Akpediono Uredi resonated deeply at the Night of Tributes held in his honor at his Idheze-Irri home. Distinguished guests, including Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, representing Delta South Senatorial District, gathered to pay homage to a man described as a beacon of generosity, leadership, and integrity.
Addressing the gathering, Senator Joel-Onowakpo extolled High Chief Uredi’s lifelong commitment to the well-being of others and his transformative impact on the Isoko nation and beyond.
“The loss of such a distinguished figure leaves an irreplaceable void, not just within the Uredi family, but across the entire Isoko nation,” the Senator said. “High Chief Sergeant Akpediono Uredi was more than a revered leader; he was a man of boundless generosity and absolute commitment to the well-being of others. His legacy is a testament to a life lived in service to humanity, marked by profound contributions to social welfare and an enduring desire to uplift the Isoko people through political empowerment and networking.”
Reflecting on his personal connection with the late Chief, Senator Joel-Onowakpo shared poignant memories of how Uredi’s generosity shaped his professional and personal journey.
“I had a significant encounter with High Chief Uredi when I relocated to Lagos in search of greener pastures. He extended his hand of fellowship and love by providing me with my first job at Ferou Hotels as a bar boy. This act of trust and support laid the foundation for my career as an accountant and instilled in me the values of diligence and integrity,” he recounted.
He further highlighted Chief Uredi’s unwavering support in 2006 when the leader’s influence encouraged him to vie for a seat in the Delta State House of Assembly. Although Senator Joel-Onowakpo eventually stepped aside, he emphasized the Chief’s fairness and vision for fostering leadership within the Isoko nation.
“Chief Uredi’s insistence on supporting me for the House of Assembly position demonstrated his deep sense of fairness and commitment to empowering future leaders. His integrity remains a hallmark of his legacy,” Senator Joel-Onowakpo said.
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In addition to his public contributions, Chief Uredi’s enduring influence as a family man and mentor was celebrated. Senator Joel-Onowakpo praised the values instilled in his son, Chief Ross Uredi, calling it a testament to the late Chief’s dedication to family and community.
“As we mourn this profound loss, let us also celebrate the remarkable life High Chief Sergeant Akpediono Uredi lived. His dedication to service and passion for community welfare will forever inspire us. May we honor his memory by upholding the values he cherished,” the Senator concluded.
The Night of Tributes was a heartfelt commemoration of a man whose life was devoted to service, community, and the upliftment of his people. High Chief Uredi’s legacy as a revered leader with boundless generosity continues to inspire generations within the Isoko nation and beyond.
