Former Nigerian President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, and the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, have jointly paid glowing tributes to the late Paramount Ruler of Ayakoro Community, King Righteous Inegbagha.
A Final Farewell in Ayakoro
The dignitaries gathered at the weekend for the funeral service of the monarch in Ayakoro, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The event drew a significant crowd to honour the king who passed on recently.
In his heartfelt remarks, Dr. Jonathan described the late king as a man whose character was a true reflection of his name. He stated that King Inegbagha lived a genuinely righteous life, and his reign was marked by considerable development and progress for the Ayakoro people.
Personal Bonds and Public Service
The former President revealed a personal connection with the departed royal father, noting that King Inegbagha was not just a respected traditional ruler but also a good friend and senior colleague from their days at Martha Dei High School in Imiringi. Jonathan expressed his sincere gratitude to everyone who attended the funeral to celebrate the monarch's life and legacy.
NDDC Boss Hails a Legacy of Peace
Echoing the sentiments, NDDC's Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, praised the late king for personifying the values of righteousness. He linked the enduring peace experienced in Ayakoro during the king's rule directly to his virtuous leadership.
"When the righteous rule, the people rejoice," Ogbuku quoted from scripture, emphasising that the burial was a celebration of a life that was both fulfilled and impactful.
He called on other traditional rulers across the Niger Delta region to emulate the late monarch's virtues by actively promoting peace and unity in their domains. Ogbuku stressed that sustainable development can only flourish in an atmosphere of harmony.
A Foundation for Future Progress
Dr. Ogbuku further highlighted that the visible unity and progress recorded in Ayakoro were clear testimonies to King Inegbagha's leadership, which was defined by godliness, humility, a collaborative spirit, and governance driven by love for his people.
Expressing optimism for the community's future, the NDDC boss affirmed that the solid foundation laid by the late king would serve as an inspiration for emerging leaders to build upon his remarkable legacy.
