A Tribute to a Fallen Rare Gem: Adai Moses Ovurevu Onivehu

By Dada Ahmed.

If there is any date,in recent history of  human tragedy that members of the Kogi Central Think Tank Forum (KCTTF),a distinguished body of individuals of impeccable character and pedigree, committed to promoting peace and meaningful development in Kogi Central Senatorial District will remember with deep pain, it is Friday, March 27, 2026.

The day had begun on a calm and ordinary note, with residents of Lokoja going about their lawful pursuits. But by evening, tragedy struck. Within moments, the heartbreaking news spread that one of the Forum’s most revered elders, Adai Moses Ovurevu Onivehu, had passed away at the Kogi State Specialist Hospital, Lokoja, after a brief illness.

For members of the Forum, the news came as a rude shock,so sudden and overwhelming that many found it difficult to attach the word “late” to his name. Yet, the painful reality remains: a deep cloud of sorrow that has descended on the Forum and beyond, following the loss of a man widely regarded as a rare gem and an embodiment of wisdom, grace, and humanity.

Indeed,the death of Elder Onivehu struck members of the Forum like a thunderstorm, leaving them in deep sorrow.

Malam Chatta,in his condolence message, writes:”This is a another great loss to our forum.

“He has been a source of inspiration to our forum & also to the entire Kogi Central area in terms of reservoir of wealth of experience in civil Service, as Manager of people & resources of the state.

“His death has created a big vacuum in our forum. May God Almighty give the family & our forum the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”
To the Forum and indeed Kogi State at large, Elder Onivehu’s passing is not merely a personal loss to his family but a profound void that will be felt for years to come. For over eighty decades, he lived a life defined by dignity, calmness, and intellectual depth. He stood out as a complete gentleman,composed, thoughtful, and exceptionally gifted with a breadth of knowledge that commanded admiration and respect.

Beyond the Forum, Adai Onivehu,the pioneer Sole Administrator of Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State was known for his versatility and natural intelligence, coupled with a rare ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

He blended sharp intellect with emotional understanding, making every interaction meaningful and memorable.

Within the Forum, his voice carried wisdom. His contributions during meetings were often insightful, yet delivered with a touch of humor that eased tension and brought comfort, even in challenging moments. His words did not only inform, educate,they inspired, reassured, and uplifted.

Those who encountered him will remember not just what he said, but how he made them feel,valued, understood, and encouraged.

Described by many as a man who truly “knew his onions,” Elder Onivehu navigated life with clarity, quiet confidence, and remarkable insight.

According to the Secretary of KCTTF, Mallam Mohammed Baba Sadiq, his life was a shining example of purposeful living, marked by humility, wisdom, and a deep sense of humanity.

He continues: The loss of Ada’ai Moses Ovurevu Onivehu is a loss to the entire family, Central Senatorial District and kogi state as a whole.

“We will continue to feel his absence of a rare gem, and a complete gentle man who knows his onions.

“A man with a versatile knowledge, a natural gifted native and emotional intelligence. A man with high a sense of humorous statements at all times.”

Daudu A K Bello refects on the passing of the elder statesman this::”This is indeed shocking! Very shocking!

“He will be very much missed by this Forum’s members. We are all mortals, with exits and entrances to the world. At this his exit, I wish him God’s mercies and heaven as his final abode and the family fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss. Amen.”
His humor, often effortless and genuine, became one of his defining traits, endearing him to friends, colleagues, and associates alike. It is this warmth, combined with his intellect, that made him not just respected, but deeply loved.

As tributes continue to pour in, one truth stands clear that the absence of Adai Moses Ovurevu Onivehu will be profoundly felt,not only within the Forum but across all circles he touched. Yet, even in death, his legacy endures. His kindness, wisdom, and humanity will continue to live on in the hearts of those privileged to know him.

As the curtain falls on a life well lived, there is no doubt that the pain of his departure lingers heavily. Though he has succumbed to the cold hands of death, his memory remains a guiding light to many.

Good night, Adai Moses Ovurevu Onivehu. Much as we love you, the Almighty loves you more.

Dada Ahmed is the Public Relations Officer for Kogi Central Think Tank Forum KCTTF.