On Friday, November 3, the oil-rich Ogulagha community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, came together in a grand celebration to remember and bid farewell to Late Pa Jonathan Okebor, affectionately known as “I meet Good.” Pa Jonathan Okebor was the father of Chief (Mrs) Evelyn Okebor Ogeleka, the Koretiemo-ere of Ogulagha Kingdom.
The Commemoration:
The commemoration began at Ame Specialist Clinic on Okumagba Avenue, Warri, where the remains of Pa Jonathan were honored. At around 10:30 am, family members gathered to commence a solemn funeral procession. The journey began at the popular Miller Waterside in NPA, where his remains were placed in a speedboat for the final voyage to Ogulagha town in Ogulagha Kingdom, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.
A Heartfelt Welcome Home:
Around 12:30 pm, the boats reached their destination in Ogulagha Kingdom, and the community extended a heartfelt welcome to Late Pa Jonathan through an extraordinary procession. The procession made its way to his residence at Obukoware Quarters in Ogulagha Community, where a final farewell was accorded to him. The community was filled with sorrow and mourning as they bid adieu to their beloved patriarch. The sight of masquerades dancing in reverence marked the return of their cherished matriarch to his eternal resting place.
Remembering a Legacy:
Late Pa Jonathan Okebor was a distinguished figure in Ogulagha Kingdom and its surroundings. He was the second child and the first male child of his father among six children. Maternally, he was a royal descendant and the second son of the late Princess (Mrs) Azuge Okebor (Nee Dode), who happened to be the first daughter of His Royal Majesty, the late King Dode of Amatolu Quarters, Kiagbodo. Known for his sense of humor and sound judgment, he served as an opinion leader in Ogulagha Community. Late Pa Jonathan made significant contributions to the community’s development and served on the advisory council. He peacefully passed away on March 28, 2023, at the age of 82 after a brief illness.
An Evening of Celebration:
The remarkable celebration continued into the night with a lively social wake-keeping event held in Ogulagha Community. The atmosphere reverberated with the sounds of Ijaw melodies and culture, as Mr. Best May, one of Ijaw’s finest musical artists, filled the night with captivating rhythms. His melodies entertained the assembled guests and onlookers.
The night was graced by distinguished personalities and dignitaries from diverse backgrounds, including top political figures, the Ijaw Women Connect (IWC), business leaders, special individuals, chiefs, and prominent figures from various kingdoms. They all gathered to pay their respects and honor Late Pa Jonathan.
Cultural dancers, including the Divine Perpetual Dancers, added a cultural dimension to the ceremony. Their unique dance steps and captivating performances transformed the night into a splendid cultural extravaganza. The melodies and rhythms continued to enchant the guests until the early hours of dawn.
This grand celebration served as a heartfelt tribute to Late Pa Jonathan Okebor, celebrating a man who left an indelible mark in the community and beyond.
By Chairman Ojumiri & Bella Moses
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