Former Edo permanent secretary, Dr. Felix Ekhaguere, dies at 84

A former Permanent Secretary in the Ministries of Health, Agriculture, and Natural Resources, Edo State, Dr Felix Amasihohu Ekhaguere, has passed on at the age of 84.

Dr Ekhaguere reportedly passed on in Benin on Monday, June 1, 2026 following a brief illness.

A statement by the family, signed by his son, Engineer Osaretin Ekhaguere, confirmed his passing.

He described his late father as an extraordinary man whose life was defined by grace, perseverance, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to the healing of others.

“My late father was a devoted family man, a distinguished physician, mentor, and friend. He touched countless lives through his wisdom, kindness, and dedication to medicine and to God.

“He is loyalty personified – responsible and steadfast,” he said.

Dr Ekhaguere was born on October 26, 1941, in Utoka village, Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State, to Mr Morgan Osarinmwan Ekhaguere, of the Asabor family of Ezoti, Ogbe quarters, and Mrs Grace Ehiarinmwian Ekhaguere (née Imadiyi), both of blessed memory.

He was a devout Roman Catholic, a devout Christian whose life was a testament to his unwavering faith and commitment to justice.

He was a member of the Knights of St. Mulumba (KSM), serving as Grand Knight of the New Benin Subordinate Council from 2011 to 2014, and attaining the 4th Degree of the Order.

As a public servant, Dr Ekhaguere served the people of Nigeria with exceptional distinction across four decades of professional life.

He was appointed Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Central Hospital, Benin City, rising through the ranks to Senior Consultant and ultimately Chief Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist.

In 1984, he became the Medical Director of Central Hospital, Benin City.

The Late Dr Ekhaguere is survived by his beloved wife, Mrs Sweet Madagwa Ekhaguere (Nee Egbuson), six children, namely Engr. Osaretin Ekhaguere, Mrs Adesuwa Ladoja (MD/CEO, Lagos Free Zone), Mrs Esosa Mohammed, Mr Ebitimi Egbuson, Mr Iyare Ekhaguere, Dr Osayame Ekhaguere and 12 grandchildren.