Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State yesterday joined hundreds of mourners in Agbere community, Sagbama Local Government Area, to pay tribute to the late Engr. Charles Dorgu, the pioneering chairman of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. Dorgu, who passed away at the age of 80, was remembered as a key figure in shaping both Bayelsa's political landscape and the development of the PDP in Nigeria.
Speaking at the funeral service, Governor Diri expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the revered statesman, describing him as a man who left an indelible mark on his party, state, and country. "Engr. Charles Dorgu came, he saw, and he conquered," Governor Diri said. "He was a true pioneer, a visionary who added value not only to the PDP but also to Bayelsa State and to Nigeria."
The Governor, flanked by other top political figures and members of the state’s leadership, conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the Dorgu family, the Agbere community, and the entire people of Bayelsa. "On behalf of your government, the government of prosperity, and the people of Bayelsa State, we send our heartfelt condolences to the Dorgu family, the children, and to the Agbere community," Diri continued. "We are here today to honor the memory of our father and brother, a man whose life and work significantly shaped the political future of our state."
Engr. Charles Dorgu was a founding member of the PDP in Bayelsa State and held the position of the party's first chairman. His contributions to the growth of the party, both within the state and nationally, were widely acknowledged. He was a political strategist who played a vital role in steering the party through its formative years and ensuring its dominance in Bayelsa’s political sphere. Beyond politics, Dorgu was known for his dedication to community development and his efforts to uplift the people of Bayelsa, particularly those in his home community of Agbere.
Dorgu's passing marks the end of an era in Bayelsa politics. His legacy as a committed public servant, a father, and a mentor will continue to influence the state’s political landscape for years to come. While the political community mourns his death, many in Bayelsa, especially those who worked alongside him, have fond memories of his leadership, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the growth of his party and the state.
As the people of Agbere and Bayelsa bid farewell to a man they regarded as a father figure, Governor Diri’s words resonated deeply: “We are not just mourning the loss of a politician; we are mourning the loss of a pillar of our community and a champion of our state.” The funeral service concluded with a traditional farewell, as family, friends, and political allies came together to honor a life well-lived.
Engr. Dorgu’s death has left a profound void in the hearts of many, but his legacy of service to the people of Bayelsa will undoubtedly endure for genera tions to come.
