Ogbia Kingship (Obanobhan) Stool in Retrospection

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HRM Dumaro Charles Owaba

The Ogbia tribe, a unique ethnicity in the Niger Delta, has significantly shaped Nigeria’s socio-political history. The Ogbia land pioneered oil and gas activities from 1956 and produced the first Executive Governor of old Rivers State and a President of Nigeria. The Ogbia stool was never a monarchy. The history of Obanobhan Ogbia dates back to the second half of the 20th century, with centralized institutions of traditional government developing in Ogbia in 1940 through the Ogbia Brotherhood. The first Obanobhan Ogbia, Rev. G. I. Amangala, was invested in 1958. Subsequent Obanobhans included King Bennett A. Isiki and HRM Emmanuel Joel Igoniwari. The current Obanobhan Ogbia III, HRM Dumaro Charles Owaba, was elected in September 2016 and coronated on March 25, 2017, marking the culmination of a 25-year journey.

Brighten Sorgwe (1944 – 2022)

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Brighten Sorgwe (1944 - 2022)

Brighten Sorgwe, hailing from the vibrant heart of the Niger Delta, emerged as a luminary within Nigeria’s broadcast industry, leaving an indelible mark on its sands of time. A charismatic media icon, he didn’t merely walk, but danced through the corridors of old Rivers State, where his presence was synonymous with the pulse of entertainment. As a formidable DJ, his turntables spun tales of joy and rhythm, weaving a tapestry of melodies that became the soundtrack of an era. With each beat, he etched his name into the annals of history, elevating the very essence of entertainment and leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations.

Gboribiogha John Jonah

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Gboribiogha John Jonah

Engr. Gboribiogha John Jonah is from Nembe. He was a fine Naval Officer that made his mark in the Nigeria military. For he came, he saw and he ,conquered. From 2012 to 2019 he was the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa state.

Prince Ekenyo Mohammed Omieh

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Prince Ekenyo Mohammed Omieh

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Prince Ekenyo Mohammed Omieh, widely known as DJ Ekenyo Mohammed, is a highly respected and accomplished DJ from Nigeria’s Niger Delta region. With over three decades of experience, he has significantly contributed to the growth of the entertainment industry in Nigeria and beyond. His skills on the turntables continue to captivate audiences, earning him the title of “The Spinning Sensation.” Born in Bayelsa State, he began his education at various schools due to his father’s job, eventually completing his secondary education in 1985. After a brief stint in soccer, he shifted his focus to music and became a renowned DJ, working at Radio Rivers FM 99.1 and various nightclubs. He established his own music studio, “Showtime Music,” and managed the Platinum Night Club in Port Harcourt. DJ Ekenyo Mohammed’s enduring career and commitment to his craft continue to inspire and influence the DJ community in Nigeria and beyond.

Prince A.E.O Amgbare (1947-2020)

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princeAgmbere

Prince A.E.O Amgbare was a remarkable ex-boxer who achieved significant success and garnered numerous medals and laurels for himself and the Old Rivers State Sports Council. He was a 1st National Sport Festival Middle Weight Gold Medalist in Lagos in 1975, a Bronze Medalist at the 1973 Sport Festival in Berlin, Germany, and Nigeria’s only Olympic Gold Medalist in Budapest in 1974. Beyond his athletic career, he served as a Referee, Ringside Announcer, and Judge of international repute, showcasing his expertise and dedication to sports. His contributions to the public service and sports community in both the old Rivers State and Bayelsa State were outstanding.

Lawrence Baraebibai Ekpebu (1935-2022)

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Lawrence Baraebibai Ekpebu (1935-2022)

Lawrence Baraebibai Ekpebu was a distinguished professor and diplomat from the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, celebrated for his intellectual contributions and leadership. He holds the notable distinction of being the first African graduate of Harvard University in the United States. Ekpebu played a pivotal role in the infrastructure development of the old Rivers State, leaving a lasting legacy in both education and regional progress.

David Koripamo Ungbuku (1938-2008)

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David Koripamo Ungbuku (1938-2008)

David Koripamo Ungbuku (1938–2008) was a pioneering jurist and the first Chief Judge of Bayelsa State. He retired as the longest-serving Chief Judge in southern Nigeria and was honored with the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR). Born in Sabageria, Bayelsa State, he began his career as a teacher before pursuing law, graduating from the University of Lagos in 1970 and being called to the Nigerian Bar in 1971. Known for his discipline and intellectual rigor, Justice Ungbuku was sworn in as a judge in 1983 and became Chief Judge of Bayelsa in 1992. He passed away in 2008 at the age of 70.

Alabo Barrister Oluremi Ayodele Coker-Ineyougha (1945 – 2010)

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Chief Barrister Oluremi Ayodele Coker-Ineyougha was a versatile individual, serving as a legal practitioner, politician, philanthropist, wise and caring chief, dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and a valuable member of his community in Nembe, where he became a naturalized member. He displayed a strong devotion to the Baptist denomination, embodying the qualities of a benevolent and honest gentleman. Additionally, he was recognized for his excellent oratory skills and critical thinking, as a staunch advocate for justice, and notably, as a superb cook, among other notable attributes.

Ebikebina Tantua ( 1929-2014)

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HRH Ebikebina Tantua

Ebikebina Tantua (1929-2014) was a renowned school founder and philanthropist from Amassoma, Bayelsa State. He established Tantua International School in Ghana in 1970 and later founded Tantua International Nursery, Primary, and High School in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, in 1987. His contributions to education and philanthropy have left a lasting impact, with his schools continuing to offer quality educational services. He also established a hospital and market in his hometown, providing essential services to the community. Ebikebina Tantua passed away at the age of 85.