Oba Okpoma, Yala – April 11, 2025
The serene community of Oba Okpoma in Yala Local Government Area came alive on Friday, April 11, as dignitaries from across Cross River State gathered to pay their last respects to the late Paramount Ruler of Yala, His Royal Majesty Ogamode Onah Ipuole, who passed away in 2024.
The state funeral ceremony, held at the community playground, was attended by a cross-section of political, cultural, and traditional leaders. Among the notable guests was the Honourable Member representing Yala 1 State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Brian Odey, who joined mourners in honouring the life and legacy of the revered monarch.
Also present was Francis Peters, son-in-law to the late royal father and a member of the Cross River State Internal Revenue Board. Peters, who is married to the late monarch’s youngest daughter, played a prominent hosting role during the solemn occasion.
The event also featured the strong presence of Omgbotuche Ayi Yala Welfare Association, a foremost Yala socio-cultural movement. The group was led by its National President, Chief Dominic Ogri, and the pioneer president, Comrade Okori Benard, both of whom described the late Ogamode as a unifier and a custodian of Yala traditions.
The funeral was graced by the Chairman of Yala Local Government Area, Dr. Fred Okem, who led other council executives including the Vice Chairman, Mr. Godwin Odama, and the Council Secretary, Mr. Stephen Ogbaji, in organizing the official ceremonies.
Representing the state government was Mr. Augustine Ibu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Surveillance. He was joined by Omoba Prince Williams Edrah, the Security Adviser to the Yala Local Government Chairman.
The event was marked by cultural displays, traditional rites, and eulogies that celebrated the life of a monarch who stood as a symbol of peace, justice, and cultural heritage in Yala land.
The late Ogamode Onah Ipuole is remembered as a towering figure whose reign left indelible marks on the unity and development of Yala Local Government Area.