A veteran journalist in the Niger Delta and publisher of Daily Watch, Mr. Cletus Opukeme, has revealed that he paid his late mother, Mrs. Goodluck Opukeme, salary for 14 years as a show of appreciation to her.

Opukeme made the revelation while showing his appreciation to members of the Ijaw Publishers Forum, IPF, an umbrella body of publishers in the Ijaw Nation, for their solidarity in his moment of grief over the recent demise of his dear mother.

Mrs. Opukeme passed away on Friday, September 20, 2024, after a brief illness at a private hospital in Sagbama, Bayelsa State.

According to the veteran journalist, while thanking fellow members of the IPF also counseled those whose parents are still alive to show them love now that their parents are still alive.

He said, "...one message for all is, [if] you have a surviving parents, please pay them a stipend while they are alive. I paid mom salary for 14 years even though she was doing well," he added.

The late Mrs. Opukeme, born February 15, 1951, in Tuomo town, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, was a pillar of strength to her family and community.

The passing of the late Mrs. Opukeme had been earlier announced in an heartfelt press statement by the journalist, expressing his deep sorrow and gratitude for the outpouring of support.

"The Opukeme family is deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved matriarch, Mrs. Goodluck Opukeme," wrote Opukeme in the statement. 

"Her passing leaves a void in our lives, but we take comfort in the memories of her love, wisdom, and unwavering support.

"The family will convene to determine the formal burial date, which will be announced shortly.

"Mrs. Goodluck Opukeme's legacy will be cherished by her family, friends, and the community she touched through her life," the statement reads.

In the meantime, condolences from friends and well-wishers of the Opukeme family have been pouring in over the loss of the deceased.

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