Diri, Nwifuru, Oborevwori, CNS Abbas Extol Late Feghabo’s Leadership Qualities At Funeral
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri; Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru; and Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori were among top dignitaries who paid glowing tributes to the former Military Administrator of Ebonyi and Delta States, Late Chief Walter Feghabo-Amain, at his funeral over the weekend.
The governors, in their separate remarks at a well-attended funeral service held at King Koko Square in Ogbolomabiri, Nembe, acknowledged the immense contributions of the retired Navy Captain to nation-building, describing him as a true patriot, disciplined officer, and statesman.
Governor Diri, represented by his deputy, Dr. Peter Akpe, noted that the late Feghabo-Amain made Bayelsa proud through his impactful leadership in Ebonyi and Delta States during his tenure as military administrator. He said the deceased left behind enviable legacies worthy of emulation.
He further highlighted that after his retirement from the military, Chief Feghabo-Amain continued to serve his people diligently as Chairman of the State Project Monitoring Committee and as Alternate Chairman of the Nembe Council of Chiefs.
Describing him as a legend, intellectual, and a man of integrity, Diri said his good works would continue to speak for him. He also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to stand by the bereaved family and expressed appreciation to the governments of Ebonyi and Delta States for their solidarity and support.
“Our departed father, brother and leader was an intellectual, a military officer per excellence and a legend who left indelible marks. Bayelsa, Nembe and indeed Nigeria will miss him. To the family, we will continue to stand by you,” he said.
Also speaking, Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, represented by his deputy, Princess Patricia Obila, described the late naval officer as a man of vision, discipline, and uncommon patriotism who laid a solid foundation for the socio-economic and political development of Ebonyi State in its early years.
He extended condolences to the family, the government, and people of Bayelsa State, and announced a donation of ₦50 million to support the Feghabo family.
On his part, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by his Chief of Staff, Prince Johnson Erijo, noted that although the late Feghabo-Amain’s tenure in Delta State was brief, he contributed to the stability of the state and ensured a smooth transition to civilian administration.
In his remarks, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Abbas, represented by the Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral S.D. Ibrahim, stated that the late Chief Feghabo-Amain served the Nigerian Navy and the country meritoriously throughout his military career.
Tributes were also delivered by Chief Nimi Barigha-Amange and Chief Joseph Ilagha on behalf of the Nembe Council of Chiefs and the bereaved Amain, Kien, Alagoa, and Koki families.
Delivering the exhortation from Ecclesiastes Chapter Three, Reverend Marcus Oweifa of the Christ Evangelical Mission emphasized the inevitability of death and urged all to live in service to God and humanity in preparation for eternity.
Other dignitaries present at the event included the First Lady of Abia State, Mrs. Priscilla Otti; former Ebonyi State Governor, Chief Sam Egwu; former Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Bayelsa Elders Council, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (rtd); President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Daniel Ayah; and former Military Administrator of Cross River State, Navy Captain Christopher Osondu (rtd).
In a related development, Governor Douye Diri, represented by his deputy, also attended the funeral ceremony of Late Senator John Brambaifa at Agbere in Sagbama Local Government Area, where he described the deceased as an illustrious son of Bayelsa and urged the family to take solace in the legacies he left behind.
The funeral drew a large gathering of political leaders, traditional rulers, and community members, all united in celebrating the life and enduring legacy of Late Chief Walter Feghabo-Amain.
