“I LOST A CO-FIGHTER” – KINGSLEY KUKU MOURNS MOTHER AT THANKSGIVING SERVICE, THANKS IJAW NATION FOR SUPPORT
Renowned Ijaw leader and environmental activist, High Chief (Dr.) Kingsley Kemebradigha Kuku, has described the passing of his mother, Mama Keketobou Jane Kuku, as the loss of a “co-soldier” and steadfast ally in life’s many battles.
Kuku made the emotional declaration on Sunday during a thanksgiving service held at the First African Church in Arogbo, Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State, following the successful burial of his late mother who died at the age of 90.
The former presidential adviser and signatory to the historic Kaiama Declaration told sympathisers, family members, and friends that his mother stood by him through numerous struggles, both spiritual and physical.
“I lost not just a mother, but a co-soldier. My mum was part of all my battles, and we fought them together. At the fullness of time, after 90 years of endless battles, she became tired and God called her home. We loved her, but God loves her most,” Kuku said, visibly moved.
He described Mama Keketobou as a strong and courageous Ijaw woman who ensured her children were well nurtured and never lacked care, guidance, or support from childhood through adulthood.
Kuku used the occasion to call on Ijaw mothers to invest deeply in the moral, spiritual, educational, and physical upbringing of their children, stressing that the foundation of a better society begins within the family.
According to him, “The society starts from the family, and the kind of children we raise will determine the future of our nation.”
The Ijaw leader also expressed profound gratitude to the Ijaw nation and dignitaries who attended the burial ceremonies, particularly the Governor of Bayelsa State and Governor-General of the Ijaw Nation, Senator Douye Diri, for personally leading a delegation to honour his late mother.
He further appreciated High Chief (Dr.) Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), Senator James Manager, and other prominent sons and daughters of Ijaw land for their solidarity and support during the period of mourning.
The thanksgiving service marked the grand finale of the funeral rites for Mama Keketobou Jane Kuku, whose life was celebrated as one of faith, resilience, and devotion to family and community.
