August 18, (THEWILL) – The people of Oporoma in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, led by the Amananaowei of the ancient community, HRH (Amb) Ayibakuro Peter Ogidi-Oke, Opu-Oporomo Igbedi-Ogbologhe, Pere IV of Oporoma Kingdom, have organised a grand reception for the LGA Chairman, Hon. Target Isaiah Segibo, at the Council Secretariat Pavilion
Segibo, incidentally the first indigene of Oporoma to become the Chairman of Southern Ijaw LGA since its creation 33 years ago, in his response to the encomiums and goodwill messages from political leaders, traditional rulers and well-wishers, thanked God for keeping him alive to see the grand reception in his honour.
Segibo, a pioneer member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, exuding confidence and brimming with joy, expressed gratitude to the Amananaowei of Oporoma and his Deputy, His Highness (Dr.) Andy Zighadina, and the people of Oporoma for organising the reception in his honour.
The Southern Ijaw LGA Chairman said although he was a trained teacher, he veered into politics by providence. He said politics requires patience to succeed and enjoined those looking for anything good to hold on to God. He also advised youths to abstain from taking hard drugs, violent conduct and other social vices detrimental to societal development.
Segibo informed that he had a humble beginning as a member of the Baptist Church and played all manners of drums from the church to the community, saying that the honour done him by the people is a call to greater service and promised not to betray the confidence reposed in him.
The Silga Council Boss announced the appointment of Tariebiye Igeoun from Korokorosei as a Special Adviser in appreciation of a giant art painting of himself and his wife presented at the occasion. He also thanked traditional rulers, political leaders, Chairmen from sister local government areas and everyone who graced the occasion.
Earlier, the chairman of the occasion, Surveyor B. J. Egberibin, represented by Dr. Dennis Egberibin, in his opening remarks, noted that the election of Hon. Segibo as Chairman of Southern Ijaw LGA is a dream come true for the people of Oporoma, adding that others from different communities have occupied the position and have done their bit. He urged Oporoma indigenes to guide Hon. Segibo to surpass the records of previous chairmen.
In his Welcome Address, the Chief Host of the reception, the Amananaowei of Oporoma Kingdom, HRH (Amb) Ayibakuro Peter Ogidi-Oke, Pere IV, said they were grateful to God that a son of Oporoma is now the Chairman of Southern Ijaw LGA and expressed joy that it happened during his reign as the Paramount Ruler of the community.
He noted that Oporoma has produced great sons and daughters, saying that “when you conceive good ideas, it will always yield positive results” and thanked his Deputy, His Highness (Dr) Andy Zighadina, for mooting the idea of the reception.
The Oporoma Paramount Ruler expressed gratitude to all the Royal Majesties of Clans, paramount rulers from other communities, and everyone who found time to honour their invitation.
Also speaking, a former chairman of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Chief Robert Ayallah Enogha, described Hon. Segibo as a team player well accepted beyond Southern Ijaw LGA.
He advised the Council boss to allow the grace of God to lead him and strive to bequeath legacies that will stand the test of time
On his part, Ambassador (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali said it was the making of God for Hon. Segibo to be the Chairman of Southern Ijaw LGA, emphasising that “when God’s time comes, nobody can stop us from manifesting our potential”.
Igali, on behalf of the people of Oporoma and the entire Southern Ijaw, thanked Governor Douye Diri for the choice of Segibo to lead the council and prayed to God to grant the Vice Chairman and Councillors team spirit to work harmoniously with the Chairman to succeed. He assured the Chairman of the support of the people.
The Councillors of the LGA from the 17 wards, led by the Leader representing Ward 5, Otuan, Hon. Eward Oweila, thanked the Chairman and his Vice for the smooth working relationship and promised to maintain the tempo to move the council area forward.
The Amananaowei of Enewari, HRH Darius Job, gave the vote of thanks, while Dr (Mrs.) B. B. Okiki was named the Mother of the Day.
Multiple award-winning Bayelsa State Council for Arts and Culture troupe, Egbelegbele Dance Band of Oporoma, M.C Koboko, and M.C Billionaire entertained guests at the occasion while Aotendeke Boloigha, popularly known as permanent secretary of microphone matters and M.C A.J were the comperes.
The Leader of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, RT. Hon. Monday Edwin Bubou Obolo, Chief Nigeria Ebidoughebo Kia, Chairmen of Nembe LGA, Chief David Alagoa, Mrs. Beatrice Tengi of Sagbama, Andy Obed of Ogbia, former Councillors, and captains of industries were among dignitaries present at the occasion.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
