Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, joined former Nigerian President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and other dignitaries to honor the life of Late Madam Ani-Gunn Rhoda Ikiogha during a service of songs held in Yenagoa.
The ceremony, in memory of the 91-year-old mother of Chief Diekivie Ikiogha, former Chief of Staff to the Bayelsa State Government, took place at the family residence on Thursday in Kpansia-Yenagoa.
Governor Diri described Late Madam Ikiogha as a mother figure to many and a pillar of support for her family and community.
“The mother of my brother and friend, Chief Ikiogha, has been a mother to all of us,” the governor remarked. “We are celebrating her life today and praying that her legacy, reflected in her children and grandchildren, will continue to flourish. On behalf of the government and people of Bayelsa State, I extend my condolences to the Ikiogha family and pray for the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.”
In addition to Dr. Jonathan, the service was attended by Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State; Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, Speaker of the State House of Assembly; Mrs. Remi Kuku, a member of the PDP Board of Trustees; state executive council members; local government chairpersons; HRM King A.J. Turnah and his wife; and other top government officials.
In a related development, Governor Diri on Thursday also led the final edition of the weekly Prosperity Walk, a 5-kilometer exercise aimed at promoting healthy living among Bayelsans.
Speaking after the event, he emphasized the importance of regular physical activity in preventing illnesses and fostering well-being.
“With this regular exercise, there will be no sicknesses and no sudden deaths. I encourage all Bayelsans to embrace the weekly Prosperity Walk,” Governor Diri stated.
The event, which saw an impressive turnout of civil servants, government officials, and residents, featured a festive atmosphere with a Santa Claus present to herald the Christmas season.
Participants received cash and food items through raffle draws as part of the celebrations.
Governor Diri however, revealed plans to enhance the exercise in 2025, in collaboration with the Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Daniel Igali. He wished all Bayelsans a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.
