By Peter Omopo
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, on Friday paid glowing tribute to his late mother, Mrs. Rose Diri, describing her as a virtuous woman whose legacy of love and kindness continues to inspire many.
The governor spoke during the 13th memorial service held in honour of the late matriarch at Ayamasa in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, Governor Diri said mothers occupy special places in the hearts of their children because of the care, warmth and sacrifices they make.
He noted that his late mother positively impacted the lives of her children, family members and others who came in contact with her during her lifetime.
According to the governor, her good deeds and enduring values remain evergreen in the memories of the family.
“Mothers occupy very special places in our hearts. We were indeed very close to our mother,” he said.
“We are only remembered by what we have done after our lives on earth. Although she died many years ago, Mama’s memories will remain evergreen in our hearts.”
Governor Diri urged people to reflect on their lives and strive to positively impact others through acts of kindness and service.
He disclosed that he and his siblings had quietly gathered every May 15 since her passing in 2013 to honour her memory, adding that this year’s memorial attracted dignitaries from different walks of life.
The well-attended service was graced by the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr. Peter Akpe, and his wife, Dr. Favour Akpe, alongside several political leaders and government officials.
Also present were Senator Konbowei Benson, representing Bayelsa Central Senatorial District; House of Representatives member, Oforji Oboku; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; and Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere.
Former Deputy Governor Peremobowei Ebebi, former APC governorship candidate Chief David Lyon, and former Director-General of the Department of State Services, Matthew Seiyefa, also attended the memorial service.
Others included the state representative on the Niger Delta Development Commission board, Deinyabofa Dimaro; former presidential adviser, Kingsley Kuku; Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 16, Abubakar Zubairu; and the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Daniel Iyamah.
Governor Diri read the Bible lesson from 2 Timothy 4:6-8 during the service.
Delivering a brief exhortation titled “Mama Rose Came, Saw and Conquered,” the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters, Rev. Godspower Asingba, urged people to live exemplary lives that would leave lasting positive memories.
He said the late Mrs. Diri touched many lives and left enduring values in her children.
Wreaths were later laid at her tomb by Governor Diri, his brothers Friday and Ebiegberi Diri, as well as Mrs. Damiebi Trust.
