Bayelsa Leaders Converge as Fred Agbedi, Bernard Kenebai Lead Final Farewell for 94-Year-Old Patriarch
Prominent political leaders and dignitaries gathered in Ayama-Ibeni Community, Sagbama Local Government Area, to bid a final farewell to Chief Sunday Canus Kenebai, who passed away at the age of 94.
Among those in attendance was Rt. Hon. (Chief) Fred Agbedi, Ph.D., Member representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. Agbedi joined Hon. Col. (Rtd.) Bernard Kenebai, Member representing Sagbama Constituency II in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly and son of the deceased, to honor a life widely described as one of integrity, discipline, and community service.
The solemn ceremony drew an impressive cross-section of leaders from federal, state, and local government institutions, reflecting the far-reaching influence of the late patriarch.
Chief Sunday Canus Kenebai, regarded as the eldest man in Ayama-Ibeni Community, was remembered as a principled leader and firm disciplinarian whose counsel shaped generations. Speakers at the event described him as a strong advocate for unity, love, and communal development — values that defined his nearly century-long journey.
Leading the tributes, Hon. Bernard Kenebai paid an emotional homage to his father, describing him as a moral compass whose life embodied discipline and unwavering commitment to family and community. He noted that his father’s guidance instilled resilience and responsibility in his children, many of whom have grown to become accomplished professionals and public servants.
In his remarks, Rt. Hon. Agbedi described Chief Kenebai as “a symbol of character and moral strength,” emphasizing that his legacy transcends family boundaries.
“Chief Kenebai’s legacy lives on not only in his children but also in the countless lives he touched through his wisdom and guidance,” Agbedi stated.
The burial ceremony was attended by Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources; Peremobowei Ebebi, former Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State; and Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly.
Also present were Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, Secretary to the Bayelsa State Government; Pastor Peter Akpe, Chief of Staff, Government House; and Hon. Collins Okokodia, Senior Adviser on Political Matters to the Governor.
Others included Hon. Chief Thomas Amule, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Administration; Hon. John Alla, Commissioner for Tourism Development; and Hon. Mrs. Alice Tangi, Chairman of Sagbama Local Government Area, alongside members of the State Assembly and other dignitaries.
Though solemn, the occasion stood as a dignified celebration of a life well lived — one defined by diligence, family cohesion, and steadfast commitment to community progress. Chief Sunday Canus Kenebai is remembered not only as a patriarch of remarkable longevity, but as a custodian of values whose influence will endure across generations in Sagbama and beyond.
