By Esther Onyegbula

Former Labour Party (Apapa faction) governorship candidate in the last Edo State election, Dr. Hilton Idahosa, has paid an emotional tribute to his late uncle, Hon. Charles Idahosa, describing his death as a profound personal loss that transcends politics.

In a reflective tribute released on Thursday, Dr. Idahosa said he was speaking first as a member of the Idahosa family before any political identity, noting that the passing of the former lawmaker had created a deep void within the family and the wider public space he occupied.
“My words today are not political. They are personal,” Dr. Idahosa said. “I speak as a nephew who has lost a loved one, a towering presence whose influence shaped both our family and the public sphere.”
He described the late Hon. Idahosa as a fearless and principled politician, known for his courage, clarity of thought and unwavering commitment to his convictions, adding that these attributes defined his political career.

According to him, Hon. Idahosa was never one to avoid difficult conversations or compromise on principled positions, noting that his political journey was driven by conviction rather than convenience.
“He was never one to shy away from difficult conversations or principled stands,” he said. “His political journey was driven by conviction, not convenience.”

Beyond public life, Dr. Idahosa revealed a personal side of his uncle that was largely known within the family, describing him as the “encyclopedia of the family,” a custodian of family history, genealogy and shared memories.
He said the late politician served as a dependable reference point on family milestones and historical events, preserving stories and lessons that might otherwise have been lost.
Dr. Idahosa also acknowledged that his uncle’s strong personality often led to robust debates and differing viewpoints, including between them, but said such exchanges were intellectually enriching and instructive.

“We did not always agree, but our conversations were meaningful,” he said. “Those exchanges shaped my thinking and are memories I will carry for the rest of my life.”
He further noted that Hon. Charles Idahosa’s influence extended beyond family and political affiliations, earning him respect across communities for his candour, institutional knowledge and deep understanding of Nigeria’s political landscape.

According to him, the late politician played significant roles in shaping conversations and decisions that impacted many lives.
Dr. Idahosa said the passing of his uncle marked the end of an era but not the end of his legacy.

“He may be gone, but his voice, his wisdom and his imprint on our family and public life will endure,” he said, adding that Hon. Idahosa would be remembered foremost as a family man of strength, knowledge and unwavering identity.

He prayed for the repose of the soul of the late politician.