Governor Diri mourns Bayelsa traditional ruler killed in auto crash
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of HRH Auditor Onakpohor, the Amananaowei (paramount ruler) of Ofoni Federated Community, who died in a fatal auto crash on Friday.
The accident occurred along the Sagbama-Ekeremor road when the vehicle carrying HRH Onakpohor and about 12 other traditional rulers veered off the road and somersaulted into the bush near Sagbama.
All occupants of the vehicle were promptly rescued and taken to the Sagbama General Hospital. While first aid was administered to the injured, those in critical condition were later transferred to the Niger Delta Teaching Hospital in Okolobiri for specialised care.
HRH Onakpohor was part of the Bayelsa West delegation travelling in the convoy of Senator Henry Seriake Dickson on a New Year visit to Governor Diri’s country home in Sampou.
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In a statement by his spokesman, Daniel Alabrah, Governor Diri expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the late monarch and the Ofoni Federated Community. He also sympathised with the other victims and their families.
The statement read:
“Governor Diri has been briefed by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who also hails from Ofoni. On behalf of the state government, the governor expresses sincere condolences to the paramount ruler’s family and the people of Ofoni Federated Community.
“He also extends his sympathies to the other victims of the accident and their families, praying for their speedy recovery. The governor equally commiserates with his predecessor, Senator Dickson, who led the delegation.”
Upon learning of the incident, Governor Diri directed the immediate cancellation of the visit as a mark of respect for the deceased.
Written by Sakinat Musa Abubakar, Editor at Neptune Prime
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