Jonathan, Oborevwori, Diri, Andayr Others Bid Farewell to Penawou Family Patriarch
AKUGBENE – In a remarkable gathering that brought together leaders, dignitaries, family, friends and people from all walks of life, Akugbene in Bomadi Local Government Area became a meeting point of honour and remembrance as the community celebrated the life of one of its most revered patriarchs, Pa Prince Isaac Firimokumo Penawou, who passed on to glory at the remarkable age of 104.
The final interment was not merely a farewell, but a grand celebration of a life that spanned more than a century and touched generations. Widely regarded as the longest-living man in Akugbene, Pa Prince Isaac Penawou witnessed the evolution of his community and left behind a remarkable legacy of family, wisdom, values and memories that will endure for generations.
The Executive Chairman of Bomadi Local Government Council, Hon. Dagidi Rawlings Andaye, Chief Dr. Barry Gbe, Hon. Barr. Funyei Manager received and welcomed the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, who joined the Penawou family and other distinguished guests to honour the departed patriarch and celebrate his extraordinary journey.
Hon. Dagidi Rawlings Andaye expressed heartfelt condolences to High Chief Joseph Penawou, Chairman and CEO of First Marine Engineering Services Limited; Hon. Prince Kelly Penawou, Delta State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs; and the entire Penawou family, including all the children, grandchildren, relatives and loved ones of the deceased. He also extended his condolences to the people of the entire Akugbene Mein Kingdom.
Indeed, Pa Prince Isaac Firimokumo Penawou lived a long, fulfilled and impactful life. His 104 years on earth provided him with the rare privilege of witnessing several generations, while his presence, wisdom and values helped shape the family and community around him. His transition therefore marks the end of an extraordinary chapter, but also the celebration of a legacy that will live on.
The occasion attracted an array of eminent personalities, including former President of Nigeria, His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, and the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, who travelled to Akugbene to join the family and community in honouring the late patriarch.
Also in attendance were Chief James Ibori, Dcn. Kingsley Otuaro, Senator Joel-Thomas Onowakpo, Senator James Manager, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, alongside other political leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, captains of industry, family members and well-wishers from across the Niger Delta and beyond.
As family, friends and dignitaries gathered to bid their final farewell, the atmosphere was one of gratitude for a life exceptionally well lived. Pa Prince Isaac Firimokumo Penawou may have taken his final bow, but the story of his remarkable 104-year journey, his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind will remain indelible in the history of Akugbene and the entire Akugbene Mein Kingdom. May his soul rest eternally in perfect peace.
