In the intricate tapestry of democracy, genuine support intertwines the strands of trust, accountability, and civic participation.
A leader’s genuine power is not in their ability to dictate, but in their capacity to evoke authentic support from the depths of people’s souls. While the aforementioned statements hold true, it is only a handful of individuals that come to mind when such claims are made.
Personalities who have distinguished themselves over time and have left a lasting impression in the hearts of many, powerful enough to garner the admiration and good wishes of both men and women persistently even long after their journey through the halls of power has ended.
Chief James Ibori is undeniably a figure worthy of mention in relation to the aforementioned paragraph. Affectionately referred to as Odidigboigbo, he has successfully garnered the admiration of a wide array of individuals, spanning from the elite to the common man.
His arrival at any event is always met with great fanfare, as attendees take every chance to reflect on his significant contributions to society and unwavering dedication to progress during his time in positions of authority.
One such event was the recent ceremonies held to honor the passing of the esteemed monarch, the Asagba of Asaba Kingdom in Delta State, Nigeria.
During a Church service to honour the event, the state’s populace, alongside distinguished individuals from Delta State and beyond, gathered in large numbers to pay their respects to the revered and esteemed leader.
The service was graced by a representative of the President, as well as prominent figures from both the government and private sector, including the current Governor of the state, His Excellency Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the former Governor of the state, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, and other notable personalities including the Lion of the South himself, Chief James Ibori.
The entrance of guests typically elicited cheers and applause, but none was more auspicious than that of Chief James Ibori. Of particular note was an incident that has sparked discussions on social media.
Upon his arrival, Chief Ibori proceeded to greet the guests already present in his usual modest manner. After exchanging pleasantries with the Incumbent Governor of Delta State Upon reaching the seat where the Governor Sheriff was seated and had passed, Ibori came back to speak to the Governor and the Governor remained seated as Chief Ibori stood to talk to him.
This was perceived as a glaring display of disrespect and caused many to question the Governor’s behavior at that moment. Why would such a subtle show of disrespect be directed towards a man who was once his superior, considering that Governor Sheriff was merely an assistant to Chief Ibori when he held the position of Governor of the state?
Although he eventually stood up to continue the conversation, many had taken note of his initial stance, leading to inquiries about the Governor’s conduct.
The consensus is that such behavior is not in line with that of a well-principled leader, and certainly not was expected of anyone who is a thorough-bred Urhobo man.
Amidst the various events that unfolded during the ceremony, the speech delivered by the incumbent Governor was anticipated to be a standout moment of the occasion.
This was especially true as attendees took the opportunity to demonstrate the high regard in which they still hold their beloved son, father, leader, and former Governor, Chief James Ibori. As predicted, the Governor acknowledged the presence of his predecessors, however, he was taken aback by the overwhelming cheers and outpouring of admiration that filled the venue when Ibori’s name was mentioned.
While he did recognize the former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, the applause was minimal in comparison. Yet, when Chief James Ibori was acknowledged, the entire space reverberated with cheers and praises from all directions, signaling unwavering support and preference.
“Odidigboigbo!”echoed throughout the space as attendees stood up to reaffirm his status as the epitome of political excellence and dedicated service to the people.
It seemed as though all other matters were of little consequence during the various speeches, with the audience eagerly anticipating the mention of Ibori’s name for any reason.
The crowd erupted into a chorus of reverence and gratitude each time his name was uttered, drowning out the applause for any other individual present, even for those with significant popularity within the region, such as former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
It was truly a display of acceptance, gratitude, and recognition of who reigns supreme in the hearts of the people and is regarded as the patriarch of the state in all aspects.
Relevance and respect are not bestowed upon individuals; rather, they are earned through consistently providing value, authenticity, and dedicated service to the people.
A significant number of residents in Delta State, as well as across Nigeria, acknowledge Chief Ibori’s substantial contributions to effective leadership and the advancement of Delta State. His legacy has left an enduring impression on the hearts of many, leading them to hold him in high regard.
It is evident that Chief Ibori stands out among his fellow Governors from the 1999 class, as none of them commands the same level of respect and relevance within their respective states and the nation at large.
As anticipated and explicitly affirmed by many, Chief Ibori’s significant influence extends beyond the boundaries of the Delta. He was recently extended an invitation by the King of Amasoma Kingdom in Bayelsa state and was set to be honored with the prestigious Chieftaincy title “The Opu Ekie of Ogboin Kingdom,”undoubtedly in recognition of his exceptional leadership achievements and dedication to the people of the South-South region as a whole. Despite the lack of extensive publicity surrounding his visit, the scene that unfolded at the airport upon his arrival was reminiscent of a captivating documentary that could rival the viewership of any international Pop star.
Evidently, news of his impending arrival had permeated throughout the state, and upon his landing at approximately 2pm, amidst the rain, it seemed as though the entire population of Bayelsa had converged at the airport to warmly welcome the man they hold in high esteem.
Amidst the throng of people, airport protocols were disregarded in order to accommodate the influx of individuals expressing adoration and admiration upon his arrival.
While the airport officials deserve praise for effectively managing the crowd and preventing a potential stampede, the overwhelming display of support, gratitude, and approval was evident.
The atmosphere was adorned with banners bearing words of praise and recognition, accompanied by boisterous cheers, songs, and shouts. Chief Ibori was unable to fully engage with the crowd as he warmly waved and was swiftly ushered into a waiting car headed for the Government House.
He was joined by a sizable welcoming party consisting of government officials, the NDDC MD, and numerous others.
Upon Chief Ibori’s arrival at the government house, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa state graciously received him and hailed him as a venerable figure, a guiding light, and a key supporter working diligently behind the scenes to ensure his success and foster sustainable growth and development in the state and the region.
In his characteristic manner, Chief Ibori, in turn, offered prayers for the continued prosperity of the state and commended the Governor for his commitment to effective governance.
A notable incident that captured the attention of all present and garnered favorable analysis and interpretations was Chief Ibori’s gesture of standing up in deference and humility when he wished to address the gathering at the government house in Yenegoa. Despite being urged by the Governor to remain seated and deliver his speech, Chief Ibori insisted on standing out of respect for the Governor and the audience.
This act exemplifies his enduring humility. Governor Diri, in turn, rose to address his response, demonstrating a genuine reverence for Chief Ibori’s character and behavior, qualities that have long been acknowledged. Chief Ibori was accompanied by a substantial entourage of government officials to Amasoma Kingdom where the title ceremony took place.
During the title presentation in Amasoma Kingdom, he reaffirmed his dedication as a son f Ijaw land, Amasoma, and Bayelsa as a whole, and pledged his unwavering support. The King recognized him as a genuine son of the land and emphasized that it was his unwavering dedication to the advancement of his people and the entire Ijaw land that has garnered him this and numerous other titles, regardless of wether he was a native of a foreign land, expressing his immense pride in him.
Many individuals, accompanied by their retinues, had traveled from distant and nearby places to demonstrate their respect and gratitude, individuals who were acquainted with Ibori even upto a personal level.
This further exemplifies his approachable and hospitable nature, a trait that has not gone unnoticed over time. These various groups, in addition to government dignitaries, graced the event in Amasoma and later escorted him to the airport as he departed the state.
This clearly illustrates the respect and admiration Chief Ibori commands, a testament to the impact of his positive contributions and the lives he has positively influenced in the past and continues to do so in the present. Excellence and positive influence will eternally resonate on behalf of an individual, no matter the era or circumstances.
A revered leader does not inspire others by showcasing their own power, but by illuminating the potential within their people. The noblest pursuit of leadership is to unlock the latent abilities of others, a feat that Chief James Ibori has undoubtedly achieved. His influence extends far beyond state borders. It is valid that a beloved leader is not immune to challenges, betrayals, and hardships, and Chief Ibori has certainly faced his fair share.
One thing is certain, his name will forever be inscribed in the annals of history, albeit in a positive light, I must emphasize. That is why wherever he goes, the people never fail to express how much he means to them. I am confident that this will not be the last time that hundreds and thousands resound with the chant “Odidigborigbo”in unison with joyful hearts.
Allison Abanum writes from Yenagoa.