Collins Julius Pekene (1933 – 2004)

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Collins Julius Pekene (1933 - 2004)

Collins Julius Pekene (1933–2004) was a distinguished educational administrator and scholar from Nembe, Bayelsa State. He served as the pioneer Registrar of the Rivers State College of Education (now Ignatius Ajuru University of Education), Port Harcourt, for over 20 years. With a strong commitment to education, he helped many Ijaw students access tertiary institutions. He was also an active member of the Ijaw National Congress and contributed to the Pan Ijaw movement. Pekene’s legacy includes his pivotal role in advancing education in old Rivers State, where he empowered countless individuals to pursue higher education and improve their qualifications.

Boma Tom Erekosima (1949–1996)

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Boma Tom Erekosima (1949-1996)

Boma Tom Erekosima (1949–1996), known by his alias “Country-Man,” was an iconic Niger Delta humorist and one of radio’s finest voices in the 1980s and 1990s. Best known for his use of African proverbs in Pidgin English, Erekosima became a sensation on Radio Rivers, where his witty and humorous broadcasts earned him the title of “King of Talk Radio.” His unique blend of humor captivated audiences, and in 1995, he even made the then Head of State, General Sani Abacha, laugh heartily during a visit to Rivers State.

Born in Eku, Delta State, Erekosima had a varied education and went on to become a respected journalist, teacher, and stand-up comedian. He worked as a Senior Sub-Editor for the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation and later served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Nigeria Tide Newspaper before transitioning to the Rivers State Broadcasting Corporation, where his Pidgin English broadcasts elevated him to stardom.

Augustine Angasei Ekeowei (1939-1993)

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Augustine Angasei Ekeowei (1939-1993)

Augustine Angasei Ekeowei (1939-1993) was a notable and astute police officer from Azuzama community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. He was known for his dedication to fighting crime with vigor and his strong stance against illegality. Despite the meager earnings of the Nigerian Police Force at the time, he lived a happy and contented life. Augustine Angasei Ekeowei passed away in 1993 at the age of 54.

Kesiye St. Sagbe (1926-2007)

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Kesiye St. Sagbe (1926-2007)

Justice Kesiye St. Sagbe (1926-2007) was a distinguished jurist and legal luminary who made significant contributions to the judicial system in Nigeria. He was instrumental in drafting the laws and edicts of old Rivers State from 1972 to 1983. Appointed as Permanent Secretary and Solicitor-General of old Rivers State in 1983, he became a High Court Judge in 1985, renowned for his uprightness, erudition, and hard work. After Bayelsa State was created in 1996, he continued to serve as a Judge of the High Court until his retirement around 2004. His legacy includes his role in shaping the legal framework of both Rivers and Bayelsa States, and his exemplary service as a judge, dispensing justice with integrity and fairness.

Abraham Bagshaw Batubo (1904-1999)

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Abraham Bagshaw Batubo (1904-1999)

Teacher, Principal, Administrator Abraham Bagshaw Batubo was an educationist who made immense contributions to the development of the school system in the Niger Delta for over five decades and was best known for his indelible services in the Nigeria Baptist Convention. Synopsis Born on September 4, 1904, in Buguma city, Southern Nigeria (now Rivers State), … Read more

Chief Dr. Obi Wali (1932-1993):

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Senator -Obi-Wali

Chief Sen. Dr. Obi Wali (1932-1993) was a pioneering academic, politician, and activist from Rivers State. He was the first Ikwerre man to earn a PhD, lecture at a university, and become a senator. As a commissioner, he reformed education by creating the State Schools Management Board and Teaching Service Commission, and was instrumental in establishing key infrastructure like schools and hospitals in his community. His advocacy for ethnic representation led to many Ikwerre people gaining public service employment. He also pushed for the creation of Port Harcourt State, contributing to Bayelsa’s eventual formation. His legacy endures, notably with the **Obi Wali Conference Centre** built in his honor.

Alabo Bourdilon Tonipre Christian Epe (1939 – 2007)

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Alabo Bourdilon Tonipre Christian Epe (1939 - 2007)

Alabo Bourdilon Tonipre Christian Epe (1939-2007) was an award-winning insurer and actor from Twon-Brass Island, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. He gained fame for his roles in many soap operas and theater plays of the 80s, notably starring as Mr. Amadioha in “Inside Out.” He also had a successful career as a Public Relations Manager at Rivbank Insurance and later became a Chief in Kemmer-ama, Twon-Brass Island.

Captain Perebo A. Dakolo (1957 – 1990)

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Captain Perebo A. Dakolo (1957–1990)

Captain Perebo A. Dakolo was a fearless Nigerian Army officer known for his role in the failed April 1990 coup led by Major Gideon Gwaza Orkar. Born in 1957 in Bayelsa State, Dakolo was passionate about justice and resource control for the Niger Delta. He served with distinction in the Nigerian Army, excelling in several specialized military courses and earning a reputation as a capable and charismatic leader. Dakolo’s involvement in the 1990 coup was driven by his belief in a more equitable Nigerian federation. Despite the coup’s failure, Dakolo chose to face the consequences with honor and was executed by the military junta in August 1990 at the age of 33. His sacrifice remains a symbol of courage and commitment to justice.

Dr. Vincent Keniye Kalaiti (1932-1990)

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Dr. Vincent Keniye Kalaiti (1932-1990)

Dr. Vincent Keniye Kalaiti (1932-1990) was a distinguished agriculturist and medical doctor from Tombia, Bayelsa State. Known for his dedication and professionalism, he made significant contributions to the agricultural sector and health services in old Rivers State. He served as the Medical Officer in charge of Niger Hospital, Port Harcourt, and was a respected community leader. Dr. Kalaiti was also involved in politics, running for the office of Governor of Rivers State in 1990. He passed away in December 1990 at the age of 58.