By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa
The Bayelsa State House of Assembly on Wednesday held a valedictory session in honour of its former member, late Hon. Vivien Ere-Imananagha, who died at the age of 63 after a protracted illness.
Speaking in his opening remarks, the Deputy Speaker, Michael Ogbere, warmly welcomed both former and serving lawmakers, noting that the session was convened to celebrate the life and service of the late former Deputy Chief Whip, who represented Southern Ijaw Constituency I in the First Assembly. He described her as a trailblazer and pioneer female legislator whose legacy remains remarkable.
“Late Hon. Vivien Ere-Imananagha was a pace-setter, a woman of character and humility. Her leadership qualities and contributions to good governance and societal development are worthy of emulation,” Ogbere said. He also extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, adding that “moments like this remind us all of the reality of life.”
In his tribute, the Majority Leader and member representing Southern Ijaw Constituency II, Monday-Bubou Edwin Obolo, described her death as both sad and devastating. “She lived a fulfilled and impactful life. She was compassionate, courageous, and a true burden bearer who cared for people without discrimination,” he stated. He further noted that she was “a modest and religious woman who lived a Christ-like life,” expressing confidence that she now rests with the Lord.
Other lawmakers, including Charles Daniel, Douglas Sampson-Awudulu, and Felix Enikiyokori Bonny Ayah, described her passing as a rude shock. They praised her transparency, exemplary leadership, and dedication to the welfare of the people. According to them, “She was committed to justice, peace, democratic values, and good governance.”
The lawmakers highlighted her legislative achievements, noting that she sponsored the bill prohibiting female genital mutilation, which was later assented into law. “Her contributions added immense economic, social, and cultural value to the state,” they said, urging her family to take solace in the impactful life she lived.
Former lawmakers also paid glowing tributes, emphasizing that her legacy endures. “Though her journey on earth has ended, her spirit lives on in the lives she touched. She lived a life defined by integrity and an unblemished reputation,” they noted.
In his remarks, former Deputy Governor and Speaker, Peremobowei Ebebi, described her as “vivacious, vibrant, and eloquent.” He added, “Her death was not due to lack of medical care, but because her time had come. Death is inevitable and every living being will pass through it depending on their time.”
Similarly, the Chairman of the Former Legislators Forum, Robert Ayalla Enogha, described her demise as a great loss. “Her death has created a vacuum that will be difficult to fill,” he said.
