By Isaac Uzaan
The Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia Friday , October 25, 2024 attended the Requiem Mass and Service of Songs in honour of Late Sir John Onaivi KSM, KSS at Holy Ghost Parish, Makurdi.
The Late Sir John Onaivi was the MD/CEO of Onaivi Printing and Publishing LTD, Makurdi and an ardent adherent to the Catholic Faith.
He was actively involved in the church and was fully engaged in its organization including various pious societies especially the Legion of Mary, the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary and the English Choir.
Governor Alia extolled the sterling qualities of Late Sir John Onaivi, highlighting the very significant role he played in his formation as a Catholic Priest.
He expressed profound gratitude for Onaivi’s constant support, life-changing advice, unending prayers and selfless sacrifices which helped many of them to become who they are today
While thanking the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Moses Iorapuu and his team for putting together the memorial which he said meant so much for him and the state, Governor Alia called on the people, particularly the worshipping community of Holy Ghost Parish, Makurdi to pray for the repose of the soul of Late Sir John Onaivi.
He invited the congregation to make the church their friend, saying if John Onaivi was not a friend of the church the people would not have been there to celebrate his life.
Earlier in a homily, Rev. Fr. Moses Iorapuu said the death of Sir John Onaivi should remind the people of their time of death and they should prepare themselves to receive Christ anytime He comes to them.
