It was a day of honour for the late Sgt. Oweiyegha Rowland Imoun Tonlagha (of blessed memory) who hails from Gbazor quarters in Benikrukru community, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, as his descendants among other admirers poured out their hearts in tributes, eulogising the late Father and Hero at the just concluded 28th Remembrance that held in his commemoration on Friday, November 8, 2024.

Attended by Deltans and Nigerians at large from all walks of life, the colourful ceremony which was anchored by the Saint Anthony's Christ Army Church of Nigeria (Okumagba Branch) Warri, featured the presentation of biography of the deceased, Bible readings, singing of hymns, a sermon, and prayers for the deceased, the Tonlagha family and the community.

In this first phase of tributes, the eldest son Elder Emmanuel Tonlagha, among others in the order of Capt. John Roland Tonlagha (the Executive Commissioner on HSE, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission), Mr. Matthew Tonlagha, Godspower Tonlagha, Engr. Michael Tonlagha, Dcn. Joseph Tonlagha, Sir Victor Tonlagha, Mr. Dude Tonlagha and Mr. Solomon Tonlagha, cherished the memories of their late Father and Hero.

Elder Emmanuel Tonlagha wrote, "Dad, your absence in the past 28 years has been greatly missed; yet I find solace in celebrating your remarkable life, your unwavering dedication to our family, community and the nation will forever inspire me. Your legacy embodies unshakeable courage, unwavering resilience, selfless sacrifice, unconditional love and unrelenting passion for justice. As a soldier, you served with honour and distinction. As a father, you guided me with wisdom and kindness. Memories of your warm smile, encouraging words, guiding hands, support, will forever be in my heart. Rest in peace, dear Dad."

The Executive Commissioner on HSE, Capt. John Tonlagha wrote, "On this solemn occasion of my dad’s 28th remembrance, we gather to honour his memory with love and gratitude. His legacy of kindness, strength, and wisdom continues to inspire us each day. AS we reflect on his life, we find solace in the words of Psalms 34:18, 'The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.'

"Dad, you were a beacon of light in our lives, guiding us with your love and compassion. Your presence may be missed, but your spirit lives on in our hearts forever. We remember your words of wisdom. Always encouraging us to be strong and face our fears head on. The battle is always won by the strong hearted.

"As we cherish the memories we shared with you, we find comfort in knowing that you are at peace in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father. Your legacy of love will always be a guiding light in our lives. Rest in peace, dead dad, until we meet again in eternity."

For Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Tonlagha tributes, please read their tributes here: https://www.penglobalinc.com/late-sgt-oweiyegha-rowland-imoun-tonlagha-if-only-you-were-here-mr-mrs-matthew-tonlagha-reminisce-on-late-father-hero

On his part, Godspower Tonlagha wrote, "My papa, as your children fondly call you, your passing has left an infallible void, yet your legacy shines brighter. Though I was a child then, but your love, guidance and sacrifices will forever shape me. Memories of your constant discipline, gentle words, late-night conversations, laughter-filled moments, strengthening bonds, life lessons shaped me into a resilient person. Your impact on me shaped my values and principles; it instilled determination and compassion and also taught me to stand strong. Rest in peace, dear papa. Your love guides me."

In a poetic format, Engr. Michael Tonlagha composition states, "A father’s love, a shinning light, guiding me through life’s plights. Your wisdom, strength, and heart, shaped me, inspired me, from the very start. Your legacy lives on, a treasure true, inspiring generations, forever new. I’ll honour your memory, dear Dad, emulating your virtues, making you proud, always. In heaven’s embrace, may you find peace, your love forever in our hearts, release. Forever grateful, our bond will never be undone. Rest in peace, dear Dad. Your love and guidance will be forever by my foundation," the poetic composition ended.

Another son, Dcn. Joseph Tonlagha (Abosco) recalls, "Dad, your love, guidance, and support have profoundly shaped our lives. Your legacy of kindness, compassion, and integrity will forever be etched in our hearts. We miss you dearly, and your absence leaves an infallible void," while Sir Victor Tonlagha wrote, "Dad, your selfless devotion to our family, community and passion inspired us to chase our dreams. Your wisdom, mentorship, and encouragement nurtured our growth, helping us navigate life’s challenges. I will always love and remember you my dearest father."

On their parts, Mr. Dude Tonlagha wrote, "Dear Dad, you taught us invaluable lessons of resilience, kindness, and compassion, shaping us into strong, empathetic individuals, to lend a helping hand without expectation" while Mr. Solomon Tonlagha said, "Father your strength and courage has been a beacon of inspiration that has guided us through life’s challenges. Your exemplary life has taught us resilience, perseverance and integrity. We miss you greatly Dad."

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