Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of HRH Auditor Onakpohor, the Amananaowei (paramount ruler) of the Ofoni Federated Community in the Sagbama Local Government Area, following a fatal accident on Friday.
The incident occurred along the Sagbama-Ekeremor road when the vehicle carrying HRH Onakpohor and approximately 12 other traditional rulers flipped and veered off the road, landing in the bush near the Sagbama community.
Rescue efforts were carried out, and the victims were taken to the Sagbama General Hospital for medical attention.
While some of the victims received first aid, those with more serious injuries were stabilized and transferred to the Niger Delta Teaching Hospital at Okolobiri.
The late monarch was part of a Bayelsa West delegation accompanying Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, representing the Bayelsa West senatorial district, on a New Year visit to Governor Diri’s country home in Sampou.
Governor Diri was promptly informed about the accident and the loss of life, leading him to cancel the planned visit.
The governor, through his deputy Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who hails from Ofoni, expressed condolences to the family of the monarch and the people of the Ofoni Federated Community.
He also conveyed sympathies to the other victims of the accident and their families, wishing them a speedy recovery. Furthermore, the governor extended his condolences to his predecessor, Senator Dickson, who led the delegation.
He said: “Governor Diri has been briefed by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who also hails from Ofoni, and on behalf of the state government expresses sincere condolences to the paramount ruler’s family and the people of Ofoni Federated Community.
“He also extends his sympathies and that of the government to the other victims of the accident and their families just as he prays for their quick recovery.
“The governor equally commiserates with his predecessor, Senator Dickson, who was leader of the delegation.”
