By Wilson Macaulay
The traditional rites for the late HRM Pere Bigborogha 11 (JP), Pere S.H. Perekeme, of the Ngbilebiri Mein kingdom, who passed away on August 16, 2017, are scheduled to take place from August 12th to 18th, 2024.
This announcement was made in a statement released by representatives from all the autonomous villages comprising the Ngbilebiri Mein Kingdom. Following a well-attended general meeting of the kingdom's autonomous communities at Kiagbodo in the Ngbile ancestral playground, a central burial committee was established. Apostle Dr. Simeon Dode was appointed as the Chairman, with Mr. David Mieyeseigha Okpe as the Secretary.
The communique detailed the proceedings of the meeting, stating, "We, the chairmen, leaders, and stakeholders of the autonomous communities of Ngbilebiri Mein Kingdom, convened a crucial meeting at Kiagbodo Ngbile playground, the traditional headquarters of our kingdom, on Tuesday, April 9th, 2024, to deliberate on the funeral arrangements for our late Monarch, HRM Pere Bigborogha 11 (JP) RFML."
After thorough discussions, it was unanimously agreed that the burial rites for Late Pere Bigborogha 11 would be conducted from August 12th to 18th, 2024, in honor of his legacy according to the customs and traditions of the kingdom.
During the general meeting, attendees, including the eldest man of Kiagbodo Town, Pa Okosuye Okotiye Ova, affirmed the kingdom's readiness to provide a fitting royal passage rite for the late Pere.
Chairman of the Central Burial Committee, Apostle Dr. Simeon Dode, and Secretary Mr. Mieyeseigha Okpe David, along with representatives from various communities, vowed to fulfill their duties diligently.
Notable figures such as Hon Godwin Masah, Elder Alfred Ayewubaka, Hon. Paul Kurugbe, Chief Emmanuel Korokoro (JP), Mr. Amadi Yeigagha, and others echoed their support for the chosen dates and emphasized the significance of honoring the late monarch's memory.
Prince Dr. Christopher Perekeme, the late monarch's eldest son, urged unity among the kingdom's residents, both locally and abroad, to ensure a dignified passage for his father. He expressed gratitude to all involved in setting the burial date and pledged to inform the local and state governments through the Central Burial Committee.
The sentiments shared by Prince Dr. Christopher Perekeme underscored the profound respect and solemnity surrounding the upcoming burial ceremony of Late Pere Bigborogha 11.
The late HRM Pere Bigborogha 11, revered as the Pere of Ngbilebiri Kingdom, left an enduring legacy through his unwavering dedication to his subjects. As preparations for the burial rites progress, the Ngbilebiri Mein Kingdom remains steadfast in honoring his memory with reverence and unity.