With profound reverence and hearts weighed by loss, we come together to bid farewell to a man whose life was as rich in purpose as the very soil that nurtured him. Chief (Barr.) Benjamin Founkoro Yeigagha, beloved and affectionately respected as B.F. Yeigagha was not just a son of the earth but a servant to the people whose dedication shaped lives and communities. Though he has departed for the great beyond, his spirit, his tireless work, and the legacy he leaves behind will forever chart the course for generations yet to come.
A LIFE STEEPED IN HERITAGE AND WISDOM
Chief (Barr). Yeigagha Benjamin Founkoro was born on the 11th of October, 1964, at Ayakoromo Town in Burutu LGA of Delta State. He was a distinguished legal practitioner, historian, educationist, and community leader. He hailed from key prominent families in his paternal and maternal divides. He was paternally of the Akeka family of Amapere-ebodo quarters in the ancient Akugbene Mein- Kingdom in Bomadi LGA of Delta State; the Eseimo family of Diamo, Akubiri quarters, Ayakoromo; the Apale lineage of the Bigborogha royal family, Tamokunou Quarters, Ayakoromo; and maternally of the prestigious Badeinmo family; Agbereye lineage of Emokpo quarters, Okofa-edumu of Assessaghabiri and the famous Gillow family also of the Bigborogha royal family, Tamokunou quarters in Ayakoromo Federated Community, Ngbilebiri- Mein in Burutu LGA of Delta State. He was raised at Ayakoromo and Akugbene communities in Burutu and Bomadi Local Government Areas, respectively.
AN UNYIELDING PURSUIT OF KNOWLEDGE
Chief B. F. Yeigagha's academic journey was marked by a strong commitment to education. He attended several schools, including Ayakoromo Grammar School, Ayakoromo, Esenaebe College, Bomadi, and Government College, Bomadi, where he laid the foundation for his intellectual growth. His pursuit of knowledge led him to the College of Education, Warri (1990-1994), where he earned his National Certificate in Education (NCE). Later, he pursued a Bachelor of Law (LLB) degree at Delta State University (2003-2008) and was called to the Nigerian Bar after attending the Nigerian Law School, Kano (2009-2010).
His professional career was equally diverse. Chief B. F. Yeigagha worked as a classroom teacher from 1987 to 1996 and subsequently served as a headmaster in various primary schools from 1990 to 2008. Some of these Primary schools include: Ngbilebiri Primary school, Ayakoromo; Ombutuaowei Primary School, Newtown- Ayakoromo; Tambou Primary School, Egolegbene-Ayakoromo; Ekoro Primary School, Ekorogbene-Ayakoromo; Agedi Primary School, Agedi Zion, Aghoro; Ekumu Primary School, Ekumugbene; Beinmo Primary School, Eseimogbene-Ayakoromo; etc. Following his legal training, he transitioned into a legal practice, which he pursued with dedication until his untimely passing in a tragic motor accident on the 19th of November, 2024.
A LEADER WITH HEART, VISION, AND IMPACT
In addition to his professional life, Chief Yeigagha was deeply involved in community service and leadership. He held significant positions, including Secretary of the Ayakoromo Town Council (1992-1994) and Secretary of the Ayakoromo Town Electoral Commission (1987-1991). He was one of the foremost leaders of the Eseimokumogbene (Eseimogbene) Community, Ayakoromo, and a frontier and dogged supporter for the South-South Coalition for Goodluck Jonathan (2006-2008). Chief Yeigagha was also an active member of the Okowa Team Smart Agenda, Burutu LGA Chapter (2015). His passion for dispute resolution and his role as a mediator earned him respect in both local and wider circles. While at the Delta State University, he was elected as president of Izon Ebe Students' Union, Oleh Campus (referred to as the Pere of Ijaw Students (from 2007 to 2008).
A MAN OF SPORT, SPIRIT, AND PASSION
A man of many interests, Chief Yeigagha had a passion for reading, football, boxing, and wrestling. Late Chief B. F. Yeigagha was a distinguished and versatile individual, known for his contributions to his community and his outstanding athletic abilities. He was not only a revered leader but also a gifted footballer and boxer.
A case in point of his sporting prowess occurred while playing with Python's football Club Ayakoromo when he played in a football tournament that saw his maternal Community, Ayakoromo, square off against his paternal Community, Akugbene. Chief Yeigagha, representing Ayakoromo, scored a goal in the match. However, the people of Akugbene protested, arguing that their son should not play against them, and as a result, he was removed from the field and made to watch from the sidelines. This event stood as a testament to his skill and his deep-rooted connection to both his maternal and paternal communities.
In his earlier years, Chief Yeigagha was also an accomplished boxer, and he toured with the legendary fighter Mauritala Timoko of Ayakoromo as his first fighter. His passion for sports was evident in both football and boxing, and his competitive spirit brought him admiration across his communities. His leadership commitment to his people and achievements in sports have left a lasting legacy.
Late Chief Yeigagha was a remarkable lawyer who dedicated his career to fighting for the rights of the less privileged. What's even more impressive is that he did this at most times without accepting appearance fees from those he helped, demonstrating his genuine commitment to justice and equality.
As a lawyer, Chief Yeigagha utilized his expertise to set free individuals who had been wrongly sentenced or condemned to years of imprisonment. His work not only brought hope to those who had lost it but also contributed to the improvement of the justice system as a whole.
Chief Yeigagha's selfless actions and strong sense of justice are a testament to the impact one person can have on their community. His legacy serves as an inspiration to lawyers and individuals around the world who are passionate about fighting for justice and human rights.
A HISTORIAN WHO PRESERVED THE PAST AND BUILT THE FUTURE
Chief Yeigagha was a multifaceted individual, renowned not only for his legal prowess but also for his profound knowledge of history. As an erudite historian, he possessed a deep understanding of the histories of his immediate environment, including the rich cultural heritage of his maternal and paternal circles.
His expertise in local history was likely honed through his connections with the community and his passion for uncovering the stories of the past. Chief Yeigagha's knowledge of history was not limited to mere dates and events but encompassed a nuanced understanding of the social, cultural, and political contexts that shaped the lives of his ancestors
As a historian, Chief Yeigagha's work was characterized by meticulous research, attention to detail, and a commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of his people. His contributions to the field of local history have left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations to explore and appreciate the rich cultural legacy of their community.
His commitment to resolving conflicts in his community and beyond made him a respected figure in various spheres. His leadership, sportsmanship, historic rigour, advocacy for education, and legal expertise will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
A LEGACY THAT WILL NEVER FADE AS WE GATHER TO MOURN
As we gather to mourn the passing of Chief Yeigagha, we also gather to celebrate the profound and lasting impact of his life. He was not merely a lawyer, a leader, or an educator; he was a husband to two wives, father, a brother, a son, and a friend. His life was a journey of selfless service, of tireless work to improve the world around him. His unshakeable belief in justice, his boundless love for his people, and his relentless dedication to making the world a better place will continue to echo long after his passing.
Chief Yeigagha’s legacy is not merely one of achievement but of profound inspiration. He leaves behind a world richer, brighter, and more just because he walked this path. His spirit endures a luminous reminder of the impact of service, the strength of community, and the eternal force of love.
Though Chief Yeigagha has left this world, his spirit lingers in the hearts he touched and the lives he shaped. He will forever walk beside us, whispering wisdom in the winds, stirring courage in our souls, and reminding us of the unbreakable bonds of love and community that time can never erase.
Rest in peace, Chief Yeigagha. Your legacy will live on, not as a memory, but as an enduring flame for generations to come.
Until his passing, Chief Yeigagha held the prestigious title of Olonemuowei of Akugbene-Mein Kingdom..
ENGR. YEIGAGHA HENRY
(Sibling).
No comments:
Post a Comment