GOVERNOR Douye Diri of Bayelsa State and his siblings, on Friday, honoured the memory of their late father, Pa Abraham Joseph Michael Diri, at a low-key memorial service held at the mausoleum of the family’s patriarch in Sampou community, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Council of the state.
The late Pa Diri, a retired headmaster and Layreader in the Anglican Church, died at 88 years on February 12, 2023.

In his remarks, Governor Diri said the low-key event was deliberately planned following the demise of his late deputy, but expressed surprise at the number of dignitaries that showed up.
He expressed appreciation to them for joining his family to remember their late father, saying they were strengthened by the show of love and solidarity.
The governor recalled how his father brought up his children in the fear of the Lord, saying their upbringing was the reason they grew up with the right values.

His words: “As a result of the death of our deputy governor, I decided to downplay this year’s remembrance. I thought I was just coming to meet with family members, pray and leave but I was ambushed getting here and seeing so many people.
“It was just a wreath-laying ceremony but I thank all of you for taking out time to honour our father, who raised us all well in discipline and in the fear of the Lord.”
In a brief sermon, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religion, Rev. Godspower Asingba, urged the living to live a worthy life so that they can be remembered for good when they die.

The highlight of the event was the laying of wreaths by the governor and members of his family.
Present at the event were the wives of the governor, Dr. Gloria Diri and Justice Patience Diri; Senator representing Kaduna South, Sunday Katung; Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere; his deputy, Michael Ogbere, and other members of the State Assembly.
Also in attendance were the Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Yenagoa, Irorodamie Komonibo; Chaplain of the Government House King of Glory Chapel, Pastor David Yala; political appointees, among others.