Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo state has advised former Governor of the Defunct Bendel State, Dr Samuel Ogbemudia, to retire from active politics and remain a statesman.

Oshiomhole gave the advice at an event to mark the 83rd birthday anniversary of Ogbemudia on Saturday in Benin.

The governor said Ogbemudia at 83 deserves a rest as his legacies as former civilian and military governors were enough reference points.

According to Oshiomhole, there is nothing more for Ogbemudia, than for him to “be our father” and continue to pray for the success of those governing the state.

He noted that the celebrator’s contributions to the development of the state in particular and the country in general had remained immeasurable as he ruled the people with passion.

Describing Ogbemudia as the founder of modern Bendel, Oshiomhole said that the collective resources of the state were doggedly managed during his tenure as head of affairs in the then mid western state.

He called for contributions from the elder statesman to enable government function well and succeed.

The governor urged him to rise beyond petty politics and contribute to the development of the state and country in general.

Oshiomhhole, who commended the Delta Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa for his presence at the event, said that Okowa’s presence was significant, adding that irrespective of party affiliation both Edo and Delta remain united.

Dr Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta delivered a public lecture at the event with the theme: ‘Towards Sustainable Democracy, What is a political Party?’