By Foster Akpore
Orogun, Delta State – August 30, 2024
The family of Chief Do-Good O. Efe-Nogo (JP), the Onotu-Uku of Orogun Kingdom, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Her Excellency, Mrs. Grace Temisaren Akpore, the matriarch of the Demas Akpore Dynasty and wife of the late Chief Demas Onoliobakpovwa Akpore, the former Deputy Governor of the defunct Bendel State.
In a heartfelt message of condolence, Chief Efe-Nogo shared his deep grief at the loss of Mrs. Akpore, emphasizing the profound personal impact she had on his life. “The news of Mama’s passing came as a rude shock to me and my family. Just last month, my wife, Eseoghene, and I celebrated her 95th birthday with great hope that Mama would continue to live on and guide us. Her departure leaves a profound void in our hearts, one that cannot be filled by mere words. Mama was a remarkable woman, a beacon of faith, and an epitome of grace. Her life embodied kindness, compassion, and divine favor, and her memory will forever be cherished by all who were blessed to know her.
“But for me, Mama was more than just a guiding light—she was the mother I never had biologically. It was Mama GTA who took me to Orogun Grammar School and later to the USA. She single-handedly made me who I am today, and for that, I will be eternally grateful. Her love and sacrifice shaped the course of my life.”
Chief Efe-Nogo extended his deepest sympathies to the Abobo and Akpore families, offering prayers for strength and comfort during this period of mourning. He encouraged everyone to find solace in the rich legacy Mama GTA leaves behind—a legacy of love, faith, and unwavering commitment to her family, community, and the field of education.
Mrs. Akpore passed away at the age of 95 in Galesburg, Illinois, United States of America. Her death marks the end of an era, leaving an irreplaceable void in the hearts of her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Born into the Abobo family of Otovwodo-Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, Mama GTA was not only a devoted wife and mother but also an educator who made a significant impact on the community. She taught English and Literature at Orogun Grammar School, Orogun, Ughelli North Local Government Akpore, an institution founded by her late husband, Chief Demas Akpore. Her dedication to education and her students has left a lasting legacy in Orogun and beyond.
“As Galesburg, Illinois, Orogun, and Agbarha Kingdoms stand united in grief with the Akpore family, our thoughts and prayers are with Mama’s children and all those who honor the life of a remarkable woman whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
“On behalf of my family and the entire Orogun kingdom, I extend our heartfelt sympathy to the Akpore family. May God grant you the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss, and may Mama GTA’s soul rest in perfect peace,” Chief Efe-Nogo concluded.