AKIPELAI – In line with the rich customs of the Akipelai Kingdom, family members and community stakeholders yesterday concluded the mandatory four-day traditional pre-burial gatherings following the transition of the Queen Mother, Madam Ibegi Obebi
Madam Obebi, the revered mother of His Royal Highness, Amoni Clinton Esele Aki (X), the Obanema of Akipelai Community in Ogbia Local Government Area, passed away on Friday, 17th July 2026, after a brief illness.
According to Akipelai tradition, when an aged or highly worthy person transitions, the community and extended families gather daily at the deceased’s family residence for four consecutive days. These essential daily meetings serve as a foundational platform for the family to hold internal discussions, receive condolences, and collectively plan for a formal, befitting burial.
Yesterday marked the fourth and final day of this traditional gathering at the royal residence, successfully concluding the preliminary mourning phase and paving the way for formal funeral preparations.
In an official statement released at the close of the meetings, community leadership honoured the late Queen Mother as a pillar of unity, humility, and peace within the Akipelai Kingdom. Beyond her royal status, she was widely respected as a diligent farmer and community matriarch who dedicated her life to fostering social harmony and mentoring future generations.
“Her passing is a profound loss not only to the Royal Family but to the entire kingdom,” the statement noted. “She lived a life defined by honest labour, sacrifice, and motherly devotion, leaving behind an indelible mark on the history of our people.”
The Esele Royal Family, the Palace of the Obanema, and the Akipelai Community Council of Chiefs expressed deep appreciation to the public for the overwhelming support received throughout the four days of the traditional watch.
The leadership acknowledged the presence and condolences of several notable traditional rulers, political stakeholders, professional bodies, and community leaders who stood in solidarity with the grieving kingdom during the sessions.
The official delegation of acknowledged dignitaries includes:
1. Hon. Golden Jeremiah – Executive Chairman, Ogbia Local Government Area.
2. H’Chief Ebiango Okoba Egai (Emafi VI) – Former Chairman, Ogbia LGA / APC Flagbearer, Ogbia Constituency I.
3. Chief Engr. James Karimo – Personal Assistant to the Former Senator Representing Bayelsa East Senatorial District.
4. HRH Amakiri Ekine – Paramount Ruler of Sabatoru Community.
5. HRH Miruobebh Dogood Akpufu.
6. Hon. Ebinimi Omubo – Executive Assistant to Former Senator Deinyefa Diri.
7. Sir Chief Bright Nathan Ogbuku.
8. Chief Ekpokoba Oto.
9. Chief Etulankimor Douglas Eteli.
10. Chief Douglas Ogele.
11. Chief Naru Okpu Augustine.
12. Chief Kotete Ibadan.
13. Daziba Apiri – Pioneer President, Ogbia Brotherhood Youth Wing/Council.
14. Mr. Akpo Igelege.
15. Dr. Ronami Ikogi – MD/CEO, Multipurpose Cooperatives.
16. Hon. Abai Jokori.
17. Engr. Eluanatein Jokori.
18. Dr. Eden Robinson Anthony.
19. Faith Ogidi.
20. Barr. D. K. Amos.
21. Chief Barr. Nabai Inemugha.
22. Eluan Pedrick.
23. Barr. Benjamin Wilson.
24. Amasueba Bamekpar.
25. Chief Martin Ijuakawei.
26. Chief Bright Yousuo Ofor.
27. Deputy Chief Isekpar Ejeke.
28. Hon. Ibaralate Kuro.
29. The Akipelai Community King’s Cabinet.
30. The Akipelai Community Council of Chiefs, Elders, Women, and Youths.
The palace noted that the collective prayers and presence of these dignitaries have provided immense strength to the Royal Family during this period of grief.
With the initial four-day pre-burial meetings concluded, the community leadership has indicated that the formal schedule and specific dates for the final burial rites of the late Queen Mother will be meticulously structured by the committee and communicated to the public in due course.
The statement concluded with prayers for the eternal repose of her soul and for fortitude for His Royal Highness and the entire Akipelai Kingdom to bear the loss.
Signed:
Chief Azibanakinayam Kelsey-Aduein
Chairman, Akipelai Community Council of Chiefs
Chief S. F. Ibegi Itum
For the Families