High Chief Leonard Oise-Oghaede’s Family Sends Love, Appreciation To All

Flowing from the announcement made recently by the Oise-Oghaede’s family of Ivbiamarusi Quarters of Avbiosi New Site, Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State as regards the passing of their patriarch, High Chief (Engr.) Roland Leonard Adebayo Akhamere Oise-Oghaede on July 24, 2020 at a glorious age of 88 years; funeral activities were held in his honour last week in his home town of Avbiosi.

In response to the overwhelming and remarkable success achieved, the family expresses their profound gratitude to the Almighty God for His goodness, mercies and blessings showered on them throughout the period of the auspicious occasion.

Special thanks were also sent to families, friends and other dignitaries for their supports in making the occasion a memorable one.

The “talk of the town” event witnessed the influx of families and friends from different parts of the country as early as Wednesday August 19, 2020; and, by Thursday afternoon, the slaughtering of cows opened the floodgates of masterfully planned programme.

On Friday August 21, the Igele Quarters Traditional Band rendered beautiful music to usher in the day’s activities. At about noon and to the amazement of all and sundry, the sky opened up and poured torrential rain on Avbiosi Land for the first time in over two months.

Interestingly, by the evening when it was time to convey the remains of the “Ohenren”, the rain stopped to make way for a colourful carnival-like procession from the Okougha Medical Centre in Uzzeba Town all the way to Avbiosi where it was received by the traditional 21 gun salute. The body which was gorgeously dressed and placed in a massive white casket was then taken into his residence for the lying in state.

Prayers and Service of Songs were conducted by officiating ministers from the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Bethel Parish, Avbiosi. This was closely followed by social wake/entertainment of guests amidst various traditional music tunes from the Igele Children Cultural Dance Group which was climaxed by the scintillating performance of Sir Golden Lucky and his First Class Highlife Music Sound till dawn.

On Saturday August 22, the body of High Chief (Engr.) R.L.A. Oise-Oghaede was laid to rest in his residence after funeral service and prayers by officiating ministers from the RCCG. This was followed by traditional gun salute which was complimented by fireworks display by some children and grandchildren. Thereafter, entertainment continued with Prince Wadada and his group providing fine music performance to the delight of everyone.

On Sunday August 23, families and friends converged at the church auditorium for thanksgiving service to glorify the Almighty God for immense love and favour. This was immediately followed by entertainment of guests at the family compound.

On Monday August 24, the customary “Izevoin rites” were performed and this was followed by the visits of traditional rulers and titled chiefs/elders of Avbiosi and the surrounding communities. After the traditional presentation of Kolanuts and assorted drinks, prayers were offered; and, the guests were adequately entertained.

Also, in line with the tradition, a pig presented by the first daughter of the deceased was slaughtered and prepared accordingly. Thereafter, various branded souvenirs were shared in memorial of the departed icon. At this point, another round of traditional gun salute was triggered; and, this was followed by beautiful cultural music display by various groups from far and near such as the Ivbiamarusi Quarters Traditional Band; the Angels of God Ladies Social Club, Ojeavu, Owan East LGA; the Ivbiamarusi Wives and Daughters Group; and, Prince Wadada amongst others.

Summarily, the funeral will be remembered for its uniqueness, refinement and glamour for many years to come.

“It is based on this note that, the family wishes to use this medium to give unequivocal thanks and glory to the Almighty God for His grace and favour,” a statement from the family reads in part.

“Profound gratitude also goes to families, friends and other dignitaries for their co-operation and supports. We sincerely pray that God will continue to guide, protect and immensely bless every one of us in all ramifications in Jesus mighty, glorious and merciful name…Amen.

“On a final note, we pray that the soul of our patriarch, High Chief (Engr.) Roland Leonard Adebayo Akhamere Oise-Oghaede (Babame) will continue to rest in the bosom of the Lord…Amen. Thanks and God bless.”