By Sunday Apah
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri and former Delta State Governor, Chief James Ibori on Saturday joined the bereaved family, close associates and political allies in paying their final respects to the late Prince Isaac Firimokumo Penawou.
The solemn funeral service, conducted at Akugbene Town in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, drew a distinguished assembly of political figures, senior government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders and other eminent personalities who came to celebrate the memory of the departed patriarch.
Prince Penawou, who passed away at the remarkable age of 104, was the father of Delta State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs Prince Kelly Penawou and Chief Joseph Penawou, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of First Marine Engineering Services Limited.
The attendance of the former President, the two sitting governors and the former Delta governor highlighted the stature of the Penawou family and the wide network of relationships cultivated by the deceased and his household over many decades.
Among those present were former Delta State Deputy Governor Deacon Kingsley Otuaro, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, former Senator James Manager, Hon. Nicholas Mutu, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Managing Director of Renaissance Africa Energy Mr. Tony Attah, Seplat Chief Executive Officer Engr. Effiong Okon, and numerous other political leaders and public office holders.
The occasion afforded dignitaries, family members and other mourners the chance to offer prayers and express condolences to the Penawou family while reflecting on the long and meaningful life of a man who lived well beyond a century.
The funeral rites concluded in a dignified celebration of the deceased’s extraordinary lifespan, with relatives and guests expressing deep appreciation for the privilege of having shared in his enduring and influential journey.
The death of Prince Penawou brought to a close an exceptional 104-year sojourn, leaving behind a lasting legacy cherished by his family, his community and the many lives he touched.
