By Elohor Foghola/Elizabeth Oduje
Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the pioneer Chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief (Dr.) Wellington Okirika (CON), on the launch of his autobiography titled “Mr. 13% Derivation Fund: The Life and Legacy of Chief Wellington Okirika”.
Governor Oborevwori commended the elder statesman for his contribution to public service and regional development describing the publication as a work of “historical foresight and cultural preservation,”
The Governor who was represented by the Executive Director of Projects on the board of DESOPADEC, Chief (Dr.) Ebenezer Okorodudu at the high-profile launch event held at the KFT Event Centre in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area hailed Chief Okirika as one of the pillars of Delta State and Nigeria.
“Our dear Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, had intended to be physically present at today’s celebration. However, due to urgent state matters, he is unavoidably absent,” Chief Okorodudu stated.
He lauded the former DESOPADEC Chairman as a towering figure in the history of the state and region.
“Dr. Okirika, you are not just one of us—you are one of the pillars of Delta State and, indeed, of Nigeria,” Okorodudu said. “There is no complete history of the Niger Delta without your name. You have been a steadfast patron of the Niger Delta, and today, we honour a life well lived at 83.”
Chief Okorodudu further commended Okirika for taking the bold step of documenting his personal and political journey, calling it an invaluable contribution to history.
“It is a thing of great joy that you have chosen to tell your own story. It is always better to be the author of one’s history than to leave it entirely to others,” he said.
In recognition of his achievements, the Delta State Government announced the procurement of 12 official copies for use in government libraries and educational institutions.
“We are proud to walk this journey with you,” he continued. “Your legacy is not just personal—it belongs to the Niger Delta and to Nigeria as a whole.”
Chief Okorodudu concluded by offering prayers and goodwill messages on behalf of the Governor and the people of Delta State.
“We look forward to celebrating your 90th birthday, your 100th, and beyond. On behalf of the government and the people of Delta State, congratulations, and may God bless you abundantly.”
Dignitaries who graced the occasion were Delta State Ijaw traditional ruler, His Royal Majesty Dr. Joseph Timiyin (JP) Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom; First Vice chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM, Pere of Akugbene Mein, HRMs Ogulaha, Ovie of Uvwie, Ovie of Idjerhe, Ovie of Arhavwarien, Pere of Tarakiri, and other traditional rulers, representative of Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator James Manager; Hon Julius Pondi, Ambassador Dr Igali National President of Pandef, Prof G G Darah, Chief Favour Izoukumor, Executive Director, Social Services (EDSS), DESOPADEC; Hon. Spencer Okpoye, Member Representing the Ijaw Ethnic Nationality on the DESOPADEC Board; and Chief Ominimini Obiuwevwi, former Board Member of DESOPADEC and many other dignitaries
