Prominent Bayelsa Leaders Rally Around Deputy Speaker Michael Ogbere Over Mother’s Passing
By Passman Akpos
A wave of condolences has continued to pour in for Michael P. Ogbere, Deputy Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, following the death of his mother, Late Mrs. Nanakumor Korobou, as political leaders and community stakeholders gathered in solidarity with the grieving family.
Among those who paid a condolence visit was Degi-Eremienyo Biobarakuma, former deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2019/2020 elections. During his visit on Thursday, Biobarakuma described the loss of a mother as one of life’s deepest sorrows and prayed for divine comfort and strength for the Ogbere family.
He noted that the late Mrs. Korobou lived a life defined by faith, discipline, service, and devotion to both family and community, urging the Deputy Speaker to find solace in the enduring legacies she left behind.
“May her memories remain a blessing, and her legacies continue to inspire generations to come,” he said.
Community, Political Leaders Join MourningSeveral prominent figures across Bayelsa State also joined sympathizers during the traditional canopy events held in honour of the late matriarch.
Hon. Selekebina Saboh, who attended one of the ceremonies, described the gathering as a moment of unity and reflection, emphasizing the importance of cultural solidarity in times of grief. Similarly, Comrade Gboluseri Timipre Samuel, Director-General of Alabini Peoples Congress, expressed heartfelt condolences, noting that the late Mrs. Korobou impacted many lives within and beyond her immediate community.
Former Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Peremobowei Ebebi, also visited the Deputy Speaker at the Assembly quarters, accompanied by other dignitaries, where he signed the condolence register and prayed for strength for the bereaved family.
Grand Finale Draws Top Government Officials
The grand finale of the traditional rites took place in Yenagoa, attracting a distinguished gathering of political leaders and stakeholders, including the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, and the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere.
Tributes highlighted the late Mrs. Korobou’s humility, resilience, and dedication to education and community development. Speakers described her life as a testament to compassion and selfless service.
The ceremony featured solemn cultural rites and musical renditions, creating an atmosphere of reflection and celebration of a life widely regarded as impactful and fulfilled. The late matriarch reportedly passed at the age of 88.
Family members and sympathizers prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul and for strength for the Ogbere family as they navigate the difficult period of mourning.
