By Abel Johngold Orheruata
Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, on Saturday, April 27, 2019, led tributes to renowned Queen Mother of the Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Late Nene Itoto Seigha Samson Ogoba (Nee Igere), as she was buried at her country home in Oporoza in Gbaramatu Kingdom Warri Southwest Local Government Area of the State.
Okowa in his tribute described the matriarch of the Samson Ogoba family, who passed away at 96 years of age, as “a Queen Mother of note”. He described her as a mother who lived a life of commitment, passion and dedication to God and the entire Gbaramatu kingdom.
Okowa, who was represented by his deputy, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro concluded with a reception at Oporoza open play ground noted that the “Queen Mother lived up to her calling as wife, mother, grandmother, and great – grandmother”. Adding that the legacy she left behind will live as an inspiration with them.
While thanking all Gbaramatu kindred and other guests for gracing the burial rites ceremony, Gov Okowa recommended the departed Queen Mother’s “legacy of diligence, honesty and peace” to her three children, forty grandchildren, twenty three great -grandchildren and two great – great grandchildren.
Among other dignitaries at the funeral ceremonies that attracted mourners from various parts of Nigeria apart from the State Deputy Governor Kingsley Otuaro, who was there in three capacities ie: Representative of Governor Okowa, Son of the Soil and as one of the chief mourners, were some of the State Commissioners, Hons. Henry Siakpara, Karo Ilolo, Jude Sinebe, Julius Takeme, Delta South PDP Chairman Emmanuel Amgbaduba,, State Deputy Chief of Staff Hon. Steve Eruotor as well as several and past top government functionaries.