Prominent Ijaws and Nigerians from all walks of life, on Tuesday, thronged the Effurun private residence of the late Architect Chief Piniki Azaiye Duwogbegha, venue of the service of songs for the late architect and talent groomer.
The service of songs officiated by Bishop Felix Piniki of Fire Faith Praise Missions Int’l Inc, started by 4pm, marking the beginning of the rites of passage for the foremost architect and pillar of support, with top dignitaries from across the state and beyond adding to the overflowing massive guests and sympathizers. Underscoring the deceased social impact and charitable efforts, which has supported several youths in their academics, businesses and careers.
As the late Piniki begins final journey to mother earth on Thursday, 10 October, 2024, the mammoth turnout at the service of songs reflected a strong will to celebrate his remarkable life and the lasting impact on society.
Some notable guests at the service included High Chief Amb. Godspwer Gbnekama JP Ph.D Fiyewi of Gbarmatu Kingdom; High Chief Dr. Bello Oboko, the Ebiyedouwei of Gbarmatu Kingdom; High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Pondi, the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited ; Chief Favour Izoukumor the Executive Director of Socials, DESOPADEC; Hon. Spencer Okpoye, Commissioner representing Ijaw ethnic nationality in the Board of DESOPADEC, among others.
In their tribute to the late Arch. Chief PAD, the Gbaramatu Traditional Council described the deceased as a “special personality” and praised him for his many contributions to the kingdom, notably his architectural masterpiece which they said has now become his “signature”, while ending the tribute with a consolation to the family of the late Chief.
Holder of the traditional title of The Ganpamowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Arch. Chief PAD lived up to the meaning of his chieftaincy title as he brought a tsunami of development both in Gbaramatu and in the Diaspora.
Speaking to our reporter at the service, Elder T.K Ogoriba, leader of Oporoza House, said the death of Chief Architect Piniki has created a huge vacuum in Oporoza House that will be difficult to fill as he was an active member.
He said: “this man Chief Azaiya Piniki, is a member of Oporoza House, its unfortunate an active member like him would just suddenly die. Its a big vacuum that has been created and we do not know how to refill, God brought him, and taken him back and we do not have powers to question God. May his soul rest in peace.”
The late Arch. Chief Azaiye Piniki, who died on 25 September, 2024 after a brief illness, is survived by two wives: Mrs. Piniki D. Hannah and Mrs. Piniki D. Ufuoma; and seven children amongst whom are Ebisinde Azaiye, Pinasinde Azaiye Gabriella, Elohor Azaiye Tamaraun-emi, Douiba Azaiye, Derick Azaiye, Desmond Azaiye, and Lizzy Korekumor Azaiye Piniki.
His remains would be buried on Thursday 10 October, 2024 in his native home, Oporoza, in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State.
