The coastal community of Kurutie in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, was over flooded with excitement as a prominent son of the soil and Niger Delta leader, the Ibe-Ebidouwei of Izon Nation, High Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, the Ódókóríkódó 1, returned home to the community on a 'Thank You' visit on Thursday, October 31, 2024.

Though not his first homecoming in a long while, however, the Niger Delta leader who had earlier visited the community in his participation of the recently concluded cultural Amadifie festival, was thrilled by the laudable reception accorded his personality, mostly by the women of Kurutie, during the period the festival lasted.

Kurutie, one of the major communities in Gbaramatu Clan, which plays host as the take-off site for the Nigerian Maritime University (NMU), has been known for its hospitality. And no doubt, the community women amplification of that theme left an unforgettable impression in the mind of the chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited who decided to honour them with a 'Thank You' visit on his return in demonstration of his appreciation.

In his remarks as they converged in the community town hall, Tompolo conveyed his deep appreciation to the mothers and elders of Kurutie, reflecting on the immense sacrifices they have made for the betterment of the community. And in recognition of their contributions, he promised to present a token as a gesture of his gratitude, emphasizing that his visit was primarily about giving thanks and honoring the enduring strength of the women and elderly men in Kurutie.

"The great people of Kurutie, our mothers, I come to appreciate and thank you all," Tompolo began in his brief remark in the town hall. "When I come, your warm entertainment and reception are worth it. As the saying goes, 'He that gave birth to a child will never kill his/her child.' With this, I will give a little token of appreciation from my heart for all the effort our mothers have put in and the challenges they've passed through during the struggle for survival," the Niger Delta leader pledged.

Speaking further, Tompolo, while acknowledging the pivotal role the women of Kurutie played in supporting their men, praised their resilience and contributions as well as expressed his heartfelt gratitude for their steadfastness, especially during challenging times.

"Though we are men," he continued, "the women of Kurutie have tried a lot to stand by the men in all circumstances. May you all be blessed," the Niger Delta leader prayed for the women.

Earlier, on his arrival in the community, the women of Kurutie had put up an impressive performance in welcoming their son as they danced vigorously. His remarks later would reflect his genuine connection to his people as well as their longstanding bond of mutual respect.

"I was not expecting this; I never knew that the visit would be this phenomenal. I would have called some of my friends and people with me," said Tompolo who was visibly surprised and overwhelmed by the warm reception from the community. "Even when different dignitaries visit the Kurutie community, the women and our mothers stand and welcome them warmly. So, I say thank you," Tompolo once again appreciated the women.

In his poignant response, the chairman of KUFECO (Kurutie Federated Community), Mr. Peter Uduboh, thanked Tompolo for the visit while noting that it was a significance event he is glad occurred during his tenure as the executive chairman.

"On behalf of my executive team and the great people of Kurutie, we want to express our deepest gratitude for the warm welcome and the heartfelt gifts extended by our illustrious son and brother, and to also appreciate him for all that he has been doing in the community. May God continually bless him," the chairman prayed.

Speaking on behalf of the women, Pst. Dcns. Justina Timiyan JP, who said the information of the visit was an impromptu one described Tompolo's homecoming is "like a son visiting his parents or his mother" and added, "We're so glad and so proud that the hero was born and brought up in Kurutie community and he has come back to visit them, to play with them, and again his coming was to say 'Thank You'.

"Indeed we are proud of it and we are so lucky. And we pray that most of these visits we are expecting from him or from any other illustrious son wherever they may be, to come back home and visit their people; to play with and dine with the people. We cannot even tell it all but we are all happy and we pray that this unity and the love shall continue," she added.

An elder in the community, Chief Godspower Uyabiribinde, who is the Amadiwei of Kurutie Community, said the visit was Tompolo's recognition of the important roles that the women are playing towards the community and Kingdom development, adding that "This visit connotes peace, unity and development; which means that we are all together."

The landmark homecoming of the Niger Delta leader stands as a testament to Tompolo's enduring connection to Kurutie and his recognition of the community’s foundation built on the resilience of its people. His commitment to the welfare of Kurutie, coupled with his sincere acknowledgment of the sacrifices of its women and elders, has further strengthened the bond between him and his hometown, leaving a legacy of gratitude, respect, and unity.

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