In an atmosphere of grief, the body of renowned leader and Amadiwei of oil-rich Kokodiagbene Community in the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, Late Chief (Elder) Tonbrapagha Paul Ukuli (JP), who passed away at the age of 59 years, was committed to Mother Earth amidst tears on Friday, May 8, 2026.

Here is an extract from the biography of the gentle leader's personality as read by one of his sons, Mr. Junior Ukuli, during the funeral service that held in the Kokodiagbene Community Playfield. Excerpt:

"Until his passing, Chief Elder Paul Tonbrapagha Ukuli (JP) embodied a rare and reassuring constancy. There was an enduring sense of reliability about him—one that inspired trust and confidence in all who knew him. He was the kind of man people could depend on without hesitation: present in moments of need, steadfast in his commitments, and unyielding even when circumstances grew difficult. Yet, when himself was in need, it was hardly noticed.

"A principled and disciplined father, he drew deeply from the legacy of his own father, the Late Pa. Ameretin Vincent Ukuli Bekenawei, a revered educator whose influence extended across the Gbaramatu Kingdom and beyond. From him, Chief Ukuli inherited not only discipline but also a profound respect for knowledge, character, and service.

"Chief Elder Paul Tonbrapagha Ukuli (JP) was a man of deep empathy. He possessed a natural ability to understand and share in the feelings of others, always mindful not to cause harm. Yet his kindness was never mistaken for weakness. He approached difficult conversations with courage, fairness, and compassion, maintaining dignity even in moments of tension.

"He was a man who embraced responsibility with humility. When he erred, he acknowledged his mistakes openly never shifting blame nor offering excuses. Instead, he chose growth, learning from each experience and striving to become better.

"A distinguished community leader, his life left an indelible mark both within and beyond his immediate environment. Rising from the challenging terrain of the creeks of the Escravos River, he demonstrated remarkable resilience and vision. His ability to transform adversity into opportunity set him apart as a leader of exceptional character.

"Within the Bekenawei/Ukuli dynasty, he stood as a pillar, an embodiment of wisdom, integrity, and excellence. He was a man who honored his word, fulfilling his promises even when it was inconvenient or unseen. Courage defined him; he did not shrink from responsibility but pursued every task to its rightful conclusion.

"He served with honor as a Chief in the Gbaramatu Traditional Council and held the esteemed title of Amadiwei of Kokodiagbene Community. Beyond his titles, he was a devoted father, a dependable brother, and a loving husband—roles he fulfilled with unwavering dedication and grace.

EARLY LIFE

"Chief Elder Paul Tonbrapagha Ukuli (JP) was born on the 19th of September, 1967, at Aguagua Kirighangbene, near Pepe-Ama Community in Gbaramatu Kingdom. He was born into the respected families of Late Pa Vincent Ameretin Ukuli Bekenawei of Kokodiagbene Community and Mrs. Boyemieghan Annah Ukuli (née Ukulor) of Inikorogha Community, both in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria.

EDUCATION 

"Growing up under the guidance of his father, a highly respected and widely traveled teacher—young Paul experienced an education shaped by movement, adaptability, and exposure. His father’s teaching assignments took the family across several communities within and beyond Gbaramatu Kingdom.

"He began his primary education at Ubefan Primary School, Ubefan. However, due to his father’s transfer to Oporoza, he relocated with his family and continued at Fiyewei Primary School, Oporoza. Another transfer later took them to Kokodiagbene, where he completed his primary education at Ebiabu Primary School, earning his First School Leaving Certificate.

"For his secondary education, he was enrolled at Gbaraun Grammar School, Oporoza. During his studies, an unfortunate incident led to the temporary closure of the school. Determined to continue his education, he moved to Warri with the support of his father, where he lived with his uncle, Captain Paul Kenikayoro Ukulor Ogbon. There, he completed his secondary education at Aladja Grammar School, Aladja, in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State, earning his West African Senior School Certificate (WASSC).

EARLY CAREER

"After completing his secondary education, Chief Ukuli returned to Kokodiagbene Community, where he engaged in fishing while seeking broader opportunities.

"In 1991, he secured employment with Western Jocefical Nigeria Ltd. His time there, however, was short-lived, as the company partially shut down in 1992, leading to his redundancy. Undeterred, he continued his pursuit of livelihood and, in 1993, joined the Nigeria Dredging Company. His tenure there also faced challenges, as a workers’ strike over welfare conditions resulted in the dismissal of all participating staff, including himself.

BIOGRAPHY CONTINUES...

"Chief Elder Paul Tonbrapagha Ukuli was never one to settle for limitations, particularly in the pursuit of knowledge. Though he had achieved a respectable level of education earlier in life, he remained deeply aware of the value of continuous learning and self-improvement. This inner drive and intellectual curiosity compelled him to return to the classroom in pursuit of greater academic fulfillment.

"In 2010, he took a bold and inspiring step by gaining admission into Imo State University, where he enrolled to study Political Science. Balancing academic demands with his personal and professional responsibilities, he demonstrated remarkable discipline, resilience, and focus throughout his studies.

"His dedication to excellence soon became evident, as he consistently distinguished himself in his coursework, earning outstanding grades in many of his subjects. In 2015, he successfully graduated with a Second Class Upper Division—an achievement that reflected not only his intellectual capability but also his unwavering commitment to growth and self-development.

"His academic journey stands as a testament to his belief that learning is a lifelong endeavor and that it is never too late to strive for higher goals.

LEADERSHIP ROLE

"Late Chief Paul Tonbrapagha Ukuli was a devoted and exemplary community leader whose life was defined by service, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the progress of Kokodiagbene community. His numerous contributions to the growth and development of the community remain visible and enduring, serving as a testament to his selfless leadership.

"At various points in his lifetime, he held several key positions of responsibility. He served as the General Secretary of Kokodiagbene community, a role he carried out with remarkable humility, diligence, and a strong sense of duty. In this capacity, he distinguished himself as an eloquent communicator and a meticulous record keeper, ensuring that community documentation was maintained with accuracy and professionalism.

"In addition to this, he also served as the Vice Chairman of the community, where he played a vital role in decision-making and governance. As a respected member of the Council of Elders, his wisdom and experience were consistently sought in matters of communal importance.

"Chief Ukuli further contributed as the Chairman of the Town Planning Committee, where he helped guide the structural and developmental direction of the community. Until his passing, he remained actively involved in leadership and advisory roles, including serving as a member of the Advisory Committee on the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), as well as holding the revered traditional title of Amadiwei of Kokodiagbene community.

"Through these roles, Late Chief Paul Tonbrapagha Ukuli exemplified true leadership—marked by service, accountability, and a deep commitment to the collective well-being of his people.

BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL LIFE

"Late Chief Elder Paul Tonbrapagha Ukuli was a visionary and industrious entrepreneur whose business acumen and determination set him apart as a man of purpose and resilience. Driven by a strong desire to achieve excellence through his own efforts, he built his professional life on hard work, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to self-reliance.

"Through persistence and dedication, he became a registered contractor with major oil and gas companies, including Shell Petroleum Development Company, Chevron Nigeria Limited, and SPDC. His engagements with these reputable organizations reflected his competence, credibility, and the high level of trust he earned within the industry.

"As the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Tonbrapagha and Sons Nigeria Limited, he oversaw and executed numerous construction and development projects both within and beyond Gbaramatu Kingdom, one of which is the construction of a segment of the Kokodiagbene community health center. Under his leadership, the company became known for quality service delivery and reliability, contributing meaningfully to infrastructural growth in the region.

"Beyond his personal success, Late Chief Elder Paul Tonbrapagha Ukuli was deeply committed to empowering others. He invested in people, mentoring and supporting many individuals who, through his guidance and opportunities, grew to become self reliant and successful in their own right. His legacy in business, therefore, extends beyond profit and enterprise, it is firmly rooted in capacity building, community development, and the transformation of lives.

"Through his professional journey, Late Chief Elder Paul Tonbrapagha Ukuli exemplified the values of hard work, integrity, and visionary leadership, leaving behind a lasting impact in both the business world and his community.

FAMILY LIFE

"Late Chief Elder Paul Tonbrapagha Ukuli was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who placed great value on family and unity. He was happily married to his beloved wife, Mrs. Onome Ukuli, a proud daughter of Okpokunu Community in Akugbene, Mein Kingdom. Their marriage was characterized by love, mutual respect, and unwavering commitment, and it stood as an example to many within their environment.

"During his lifetime, he was blessed with seven (7) children, namely, Mrs. Princess Tony, Mr. Paul Junior Ukuli, Mr. Peres Ernest Ukuli, Mr. Powede Ukuli, Miss Preye Vincent Ukuli, Master Peremobowei Precious Ukuli, and Miss Praise Peremoboere Ukuli. He nurtured them with care, instilled in them strong moral values, and took great pride in their growth and accomplishments.

"Late Chief Elder Paul Tonbrapagha Ukuli was also a proud grandfather to nine (9) grandchildren, who brought him immense joy and fulfillment. He cherished every moment spent with them and remained a constant source of wisdom, guidance, and inspiration.

"His legacy of love, discipline, and dedication to family will continue to live on through his children and grandchildren, who will forever remember him with deep affection and respect."

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