Diri Pays Tribute to Late Mother at 13th Memorial Service
Governor of Douye Diri on Friday paid glowing tribute to the memory of his late mother, Mrs. Rose Diri, describing her as a virtuous woman whose good deeds and legacy continue to inspire her family and community.
The governor spoke during the 13th memorial service held in honour of his mother at Ayamasa community in Ekeremor Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, Governor Diri said mothers occupy a special place in the hearts of their children because of the love, care and warmth they provide.
He noted that the late matriarch of the Diri family positively impacted not only her children but also everyone who came in contact with her, adding that her memories remain evergreen because of her kindness and exemplary life.
“Mothers occupy very special places in our hearts. We were indeed very close to our mother,” the governor said.
“We are only remembered by what we have done after our lives on earth. Although she died many years ago, Mama’s memories will remain evergreen in our hearts.
“As we gather here, let us take a moment to reflect on who we are. In all we do, let us try to touch the lives of others. She will forever be remembered for her good nature and enduring legacies.”
Governor Diri explained that since her passing in 2013, he and his siblings had quietly gathered every May 15 to honour her memory, but noted that this year’s memorial attracted dignitaries from different walks of life.
He expressed appreciation to guests who attended the well-attended service, including the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Peter Akpe, and his wife, Dr. Favour Akpe.
Other dignitaries present included Senator Konbowei Benson, member representing Yenagoa/Kolokuma/Opokuma Federal Constituency, Hon. Oforji Oboku, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, former Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peremobowei Ebebi, and former APC governorship candidate, Chief David Lyon.
Also in attendance were former Director-General of the Department of State Services, Dr. Matthew Seiyefa, Bayelsa representative on the Niger Delta Development Commission board, Deinyabofa Dimaro, former presidential adviser, Kingsley Kuku, Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 16, Abubakar Zubairu, and the Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa Command, Daniel Iyamah.
The governor read the only lesson at the service from 2 Timothy 4:6-8.
In a brief exhortation titled, “Mama Rose Came, Saw and Conquered,” the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters, Rev. Godspower Asingba, urged people to live exemplary lives that would earn them positive remembrance after death.
Rev. Asingba said the late Mrs. Rose Diri touched many lives during her lifetime and left indelible marks on her children.
“We are here to celebrate her legacies because one of her fruits happens to be the governor of Bayelsa State and is delivering genuine service to his people. So let your life be a blessing to others,” he stated.
Highlight of the memorial service was the laying of wreaths at the tomb of Mrs. Diri by Governor Diri, his brothers, Friday and Ebiegberi Diri, as well as Mrs. Damiebi Trust.
