Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has extended heartfelt condolences to his Principal Secretary, Dr. Ayebaesin Jacob Beredugo, on the passing of his mother, late Mama Ayebadieye Edward Igbeta.
Speaking at the funeral service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Luke, Anglican Communion, in Nembe City, Bayelsa State, on Thursday, Governor Fubara described Dr. Beredugo as a trusted ally and key stakeholder in his administration. He urged him to find solace in God, emphasizing that while the pain of losing a mother is profound, divine wisdom prevails in all things.
“We are here as a government to show that in this difficult time, we stand with him. We know that there is no consolation here that can fill the gap of this loss, more especially the loss of a mother,” Governor Fubara said.
Quoting the scripture, the Governor reminded the congregation that “It is the Lord that giveth, and it is also the Lord that taketh,” stressing that those who live righteously are called to a place of eternal peace. He expressed confidence that, given Mama Ayebadieye’s virtues, she now rests on “the good side in heaven.”
During the service, Governor Fubara noted the state of the Cathedral where the funeral was held and pledged ₦50 million from the Rivers State Government to support its completion in honor of the deceased matriarch.
“We have been made to understand that the Cathedral needs strong support. We are willing to support the completion of the Cathedral. We will support the building in memory of Mama with the sum of ₦50 million,” he announced.
The Bishop of the Diocese of Western Izon, Rt. Rev. Victor Okporu, in his sermon titled “Hope in the Face of Death,” urged the congregation to seek Christ, repent of their sins, and prepare for eternity. He emphasized that true hope in the face of death is anchored in faith and righteous living.
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Reading the biography of the late matriarch, her brother, Mr. Godwin Ekine, described her as an embodiment of love, kindness, and generosity, recalling how she touched lives through her compassion and care.
Friends, family, and dignitaries from Bayelsa, Rivers, and Delta states gathered to pay their last respects, sharing fond memories before a reception at King Koko’s Square in Nembe Town.
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Among those present were Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu; Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo; member representing Ikwerre/Emohua Federal Constituency, Hon. Boniface Emerengwa; and Chief of Staff, Government House, Dr. Edison Ehie.
Also in attendance were the Head of Service, Dr. George Nwaeke; Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dagogo Israel Iboroma, SAN; Dr. Tamunosisi Gogo-Jaja; Chief Hanny Woko; Amaopusenibo Fubara Hart; Chief Theodore Georgewill; as well as other members of the State Executive Council, special advisers, top politicians, and community leaders.
The burial ceremony was a solemn yet dignified event, honoring the life and legacy of a woman remembered for her virtues, love, and service to humanity.
