PORT HARCOURT/Nigeria: In a recent meeting with a high-powered delegation led by Prince Tonye T.J.T Princewill, the Chairman of the burial committee for the late King Prof. TJT Princewill, AMACHREE XI, the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, expressed heartfelt sentiments and assured that the late King deserves a dignified burial.
Akpabio, who hails from the Niger Delta region and served as the former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, conveyed his personal connection to Port-Harcourt, where he received crucial tutelage. In a statement echoing his commitment, he declared, “I can tell you, this King deserves a befitting burial.” He pledged to spare no effort in ensuring that the transiting King receives the honor he merits, even in death.
The Senate President further disclosed plans for National Assembly members to pay their last respects to the late King on the floor of the Chambers, with some, including himself, attending the funeral. These assurances were given during the courtesy call made by the delegation to Akpabio’s Abuja residence.
During the meeting, Akpabio took the delegation on a reflective journey, recounting his experiences as the Governor of Akwa Ibom state and the influence of his time in Port-Harcourt on his development. He affirmed his familiarity with the Kalabari people and asserted that a man of the late King’s caliber deserves an honorable burial.
Earlier in the proceedings, Prince Tonye T.J.T Princewill, the only child of the late King and Chairman of the burial committee, extended gratitude to the Senate President for accommodating the delegation on short notice. Emphasizing the significance of the visit, Princewill introduced the delegation members to the Senate President and briefed him on the funeral rites.
In response, the Senate President warmly received the Kalabari sons and expressed his appreciation for the delegation’s visit. His Highness Anabs Sara-Igbe of Kula, speaking on behalf of the delegation, highlighted the historical ties between Akwa Ibom and Rivers States, urging the Senate President, a self-proclaimed “Port-Harcourt boy,” to personally attend the funeral.
The delegation also visited the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, who described the passing of the Kalabari King as a significant loss. While acknowledging that he was not closely acquainted with the late King, the Warri monarch pledged to send a substantial delegation to ensure a befitting farewell.
Prince Tonye T.J.T Princewill briefed the Olu on the funeral rites, extending a formal invitation to him as a mark of respect. Despite cultural restrictions preventing the Olu from attending, the gesture was deemed a strong signal by Princewill.
Chief David Briggs, in his vote of thanks, expressed gratitude to the Senate President for the warm reception and assurances, vowing to convey the sentiments back to their community. The delegation, which included Pastor Tonye Cole, Sir Opunabo Inko Tariah, and Mrs. Chinwe Ezeanya, concluded their series of visits with appreciation for the support received in their quest for a dignified farewell for the late King.
