February 28, (THEWILL) — A former deputy governor of Delta State, Chief Benjamin Sunday Elue, has died on Saturday, at the age of 85.
Family sources confirmed that Elue passed away in the early hours of Saturday, following a brief illness.
Elue served as Deputy Governor of Delta State from May 29, 1999, to May 29, 2007, alongside former Governor, James Onanefe Ibori. His tenure coincided with Nigeria’s return to civil rule after years of military governance, and he was widely regarded as playing a stabilising and supportive role in the formative years of the state’s Fourth Republic leadership.
A native of Obior in Aniocha North Local Government Area, in the Anioma axis of the state, Elue began his professional career as an educator, teaching in both primary and secondary schools. He later transitioned into management consulting and private business, building a reputation as a disciplined administrator and entrepreneur before venturing fully into politics.
A stalwart of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Elue remained an influential party leader and respected elder statesman long after leaving office in 2007. Political associates frequently described him as a man of uncommon humility and unwavering loyalty, qualities that endeared him to colleagues across party lines.
Tributes have begun to pour in from political leaders and associates, many of whom hailed his dedication to public service and his contribution to laying the groundwork for governance in the state at the dawn of democracy. One tribute described him as a symbol of commitment, whose passing signals the gradual departure of the early architects of modern Delta State.
Born on June 6, 1940, his death marks the end of an era for one of the foundational figures in Delta state’s democratic administration.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
