Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has paid glowing tribute to the former Military Administrator of the state, late Navy Captain Omoniyi Olubolade (rtd), highlighting his role in preventing what could have been a deadly confrontation during his tenure.
Speaking at the funeral service held at the St. John Military Protestant Church, Bonny Cantonment, Victoria Island, Lagos, Diri reflected on Olubolade’s calm and humane leadership during a tense incident in Yenagoa, when some youths stormed the Government House demanding the release of detained colleagues.
According to a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, on Sunday, August 10, 2025, the Bayelsa Governor said Olubolade chose not to use military force in response, opting instead for a peaceful resolution to avoid bloodshed a decision Diri described as motivated by his genuine love for the people of Bayelsa.
“If it had been someone else, lives would have been lost,” the governor remarked, noting Olubolade’s rare restraint and compassion during a potentially volatile moment.
Diri praised the late naval officer’s dedication to service, not only in Bayelsa but across Nigeria. He fondly recalled Olubolade’s frequent choice to wear Ijaw traditional attire, symbolizing his deep connection to the people and culture of the state.
“He lived a life of service, patriotism, and cultural acceptance. He symbolically held dual citizenship of both Ekiti and Bayelsa. His contributions will be remembered for generations,” Diri said.
Olubolade served as Bayelsa’s third military administrator from June 27, 1997, to July 9, 1998, following the state’s creation in 1996 by late Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha. He later served as Minister of Special Duties and of Police Affairs.
Also paying tribute, Ekiti State Governor Abiodun Oyebanji thanked the Bayelsa government for honouring Olubolade with a befitting burial. He described the late officer as a compassionate leader who made lasting impacts wherever he served.
“Navy Captain Olubolade genuinely cared for others and brought up his family in a godly way. His memory will live on,” Oyebanji said.
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Dame Patience Jonathan, representing her husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, described Olubolade as a man who left indelible marks and urged the bereaved family to take solace in God. She also commended Governor Diri for supporting the family and ensuring a dignified farewell.
The funeral was attended by a high-powered delegation from Bayelsa State, including First Lady Dr. Gloria Diri; members of the National and State Assemblies; the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei; Chief of Staff Dr. Peter Akpe; and other senior officials.
Also present were Olubolade’s successor Col. Edor Obi (rtd), Mrs. Margaret Alamieyeseigha (widow of Bayelsa’s first civilian governor), Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), Prof. Steve Azaiki, and traditional rulers including King Bubaraye Dakolo and King Joshua Igbugburu.
Governor Diri concluded by noting that Olubolade’s 70th birthday, celebrated in Yenagoa, was a symbolic farewell — a final act of service to a state he came to love deeply.
“Bayelsa loved him, and he loved Bayelsa. But God loved him more,” he said.
