The Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki; and his predecessor, Adams Oshiomhole, were among the notable dignitaries in attendance as Helen Okunbo, the mother of the late billionaire businessman and Chairman of Ocean Marine Limited, Hosa Okunbo, was laid to rest.
The deceased, who passed away on April 7, 2023, was buried last weekend at her residence in Benin City, the capital of Edo State. At the reception, purple was the colour of the day, as guests turned up in different ‘aso-ebi’ styles.
There was also a thanksgiving service at the Christ Apostolic Church of God Mission International, Benin, with the colours of the event being white and purple.
In his tributes, a son of the departed, Tinyan Okunbo, noted that his late mum shared her life with others.
On her part, the first daughter of late Captain Hosa Okunbo and the granddaughter of the departed, Olori Aiyivieruewinoya Emiko-Atuwatse, described the late matriarch as irreplaceable. Emiko-Atuwatse, who is the queen of the Olu of Warri, said, “We learnt the principle of the ages through your firm but loving instructions very early, including grace, kindness, respect, humility, diligence and integrity. We promise to always celebrate the matriarchal legacy you left behind, and continue to share the beautiful lessons of life and dignity that you inculcated in us.”
Other notable personalities in attendance include the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu; a former governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the state, Osagie Ize-Iyamu; and a former Managing Director of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria, Osagie Okunbor.
Veteran singer, King Sunny Ade, was on the ground to thrill guests and add spice to the event.
