From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, on Saturday, led other members of the family at the funeral of his late father’s younger brother, Chief Jothan Michael Diri, in Sampou community, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the state.
Chief Jothan Diri died on October 26, 2025 aged 83 years.
Speaking during a well-attended funeral service at the Reedemed Christain Church of God, Sampou, Governor Diri expressed gratitude to those that stood with the family in their moment of grief, particularly the clergy, which he said had been a pillar of support at all times.
The Bayelsa governor also stated that the presence of politicians that were once opponents at the event and at state functions was a testament to the unity and peace among the political class in the state.
He advised that the trend be sustained as the state needs unity to move forward.
His words: “I thank all of you for joining my family at this solemn event. Most of you have been with us for days, particularly the cleargy. You have always been there for us whenever you are called upon.
“I also thank all those that have supported us in different ways. Even if I do not mention your names, just know that you are appreciated.
“Let me equally say that I am happy anytime I see David Lyon with us; working with us without any bitterness. That is how it should be. Bayelsa is moving forward. “
Delivering the funeral sermon, Pastor Peter Akpe stated that life was borrowed and as such we owe it to God to live in ways that honour Him.
He also said that life was short just as death is only a shadow, urging the congregation not to be afraid of death but to live an impactful life in service to God.
Dr. Akpe, who is also the Chief of Staff, Government House, Yenagoa, admonished that although it is inevitable, God has power over death, and that at the right time it will be brought to nothing.
Present at the event were the wives of the governor, Dr. Gloria Diri and Justice Patience Diri, Senator Konbowei Benson representing Bayelsa Central, House of Representatives members – Dr. Fred Agbedi (Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency), Oforji Oboku (Yenagoa/Kolokuma/Opokuma), Mrs. Marie Ebikake (Nembe/Brass) – as well as Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere and other state legislators.
Also in attendance were former Deputy Governor, Gboribiogha John-Jonah, former Supreme Court jurist and king of Tuomo Kingdom in Delta State, Justice Francis Tabai (rtd), chairman of the All Progressives Congress state caretaker committee, Dr. Dennis Otiotio, Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Executive Director, South South Development Commission, Preye Aganaba, and members of the state executive coulcil.
Others were President of the Custoumary Court of Appeal, Justice Daniel Ayah, Chief Executive Officer, De Wayles Group of Companies, High Chief Victor Egukawhore, service commanders, religious leaders and traditional rulers, among others.
