Oghenetejiri Nyerhovwo
Comr. Ovuozourie Macaulay, former Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG)has expressed grief over the demise of the revered Archbishop Christian Ovwoma Aggrey Apena.
Archbishop Apena, the first ordained Pentecostal Bishop in Delta State and founder/cum Chief Superintendent of Betheisda Gospel Mission International Inc., died at the age of 91.
In a condolence statement issued in Asaba, Comr. Macaulay recalled Archbishop Apena’s immense contributions to the growth of the Christian community and manifest prominence in the development of the educational sector in the defunct Bendel State.
Comr. Macaulay noted that after the creation of Delta State, late Archbishop Apena continued to be a spring of peace and unity in the State as well as a rallying point for Christendom.
According to Comr. Macaulay, “he was a forthright, fearless and dedicated soldier of Christ whose sojourn for the Lord spanned about seven decades, winning souls for the kingdom of God even to the last day.”
Speaking on his personal relationship with the late Archbishop, Comr. Macaulay has this to say, “on a personal note, late Archbishop Apena was a father to me and many others particularly in Isoko, a stabilizing force who mentored many across the old Bendel State and remained a source of unity until death visited.”
The former Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG) added, “we should not be saddened by his demise but rejoice because like Apostle Paul said, Archbishop Apena has fought a good fight of faith and has gone to be with the Lord.”
Comr. Macaulay prayed God Almighty to grant the deceased eternal rest as well as give the family, friends, the Church, Isoko nation and the State the fortitude to bear the great loss.
