After a night of social wake-keep ceremony in honour and celebration of the life lived by the Amaokosuwei of Benikrukru Community in the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, Late Pa. Kwekwe-wei Onimiemene Odibo, families and sympathisers bid the oldest man final goodbye as his body was committed to Mother Earth on the morning of Saturday, May 16, 2026.

According to his biography, the "Late Pa. Kwekwe-wei Onimiemene Odibo, was born on July 18, 1931, at Benikrukru, into the family of Late Pa. Odibo Onimiemene and Late Mrs. Uyakiri Ogbonmu, both of Oboro Quarters," and "was raised with a strong sense of responsibility by his parents, the family, and the larger community."

In the process, "the values of communal service, resilience, and respect for tradition were instilled in him, shaping the man he would become and the role he would play later in the affairs of Benikrukru and in the larger Gbaramatu Kingdom."

Described as "a devoted family man who was blessed with a dynamic household," the late Pa. Kwekwe-wei was known "for his dedication to his family's welfare and the peace, unity, and development of the community." It was said that "Despite the demands of his livelihood, he remained a steady presence in the home and a guiding figure to his immediate and extended relatives."

His occupation of fishing was also "the foundation of his life's journey and community connections." It was said "He began his fishing career in Ogidigben, where he spent his formative years and later married Mrs. Tuma Alakiri from Oporoza, Gbaramatu Kingdom" and the union was blessed with two children—a son and a daughter.

"In pursuit of his trade, he moved on to Daubiriye-Gbene and subsequently to other Benikrukru satellite communities, where he fished for several years. His years along the waterways of Gbaramatu Kingdom built his reputation as a diligent and experienced fisherman, who understood the river and the sea.

"After many years away, he returned to his homeland in Benikrukru community to settle down permanently. On returning to Benikrukru, his leadership qualities and commitment to his people did not go unnoticed.

"He was appointed and installed as the Amaokosuwei of Benikrukru community on 11th March 2021, a respected traditional role that entrusted him with the responsibility of maintaining peace, order, and cultural values within the community. In this capacity, he served as a bridge between the people and the traditional institution, offering counsel and upholding the customs of Gbaramatu Kingdom," his biography reads.

In the end, the verdict of his life by his people was captured in the following words: "Late Pa. Kwekwe-wei lived a life defined by diligent work, loyalty, and service. From the rivers of Ogidigben to the shores of Benikrukru, he carried himself with dignity and left behind a legacy of family devotion and community stewardship. His name remains etched in the history of Oboro Quarters and Benikrukru as that of an elder who honors his roots and contributed meaningfully to the life of his people. He will be remembered not only as a father and husband, but also as a custodian of tradition and a man whose life reflected the enduring spirit of Gbaramatu kingdom."

The late Pa. Kwekwe-wei is survived by a son, six grandchildren, daughter-in-law, and many relatives. "Adieu PAPA! May his soul rest in perfect peace, “Agbunren-Nikoto”, his biography closed.

View photos from the funeral here: 

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