From Fred Itua, Abuja
The central working committee, alongside subcommittee committee chairman and secretaries for the burial of the longest-serving Monarch in Rivers State, Prof. T.J.T Princewill has been inaugurated in the capital Buguma Asari Toru local government signaling commencement of activities for the burial of the late monarch.
Prince Tonye Princewill, the late monarchs first son, is the chairman. David T Briggs is the co-chairman. Others are Tammy Danagogo, Dr. Dax George Kerley and Prof. Victor Omuaru as secretary.
Other members are Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Igo Aguma, Senator Seriake Dickson, Mujahid Dokubo Asari, Rtd Navy Capt Ibim Princewill, Nasiru Danu, Mrs. Betsy Godwin Obaseki and Mr. Segun Owolabi
Speaking to newsmen shortly after the inauguration, the regent of the Kalabari kingdom, Dr Charles Numbere Princewill, said he is expecting maximum commitment with a view to having a pan-Kalabari nation burial ceremony.
Dr Princewill further said the burial celebration will foster peace and unity amongst Kalabari people and Ijaws in general
The son of the late monarch and the chairman of burial committee, Prince Princewill also said the burial will demonstrate unity, peace and will showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Kalabari kingdom.
He said though it was a sad reality, he took heart in the knowledge that the King had lived a good life and left a legacy that will serve as a template for us to live.
The co-chairman of the burial committee Dr. Briggs said that he was looking forward to the responsibility and he expected the entire Kalabari nation to now participate fully with a view to having a befitting burial ceremony for the late Monarch.
He commended the work done so far and said it was very clear that the Kingdom was awake.
Meanwhile, the state chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, D B Kaladokubo on his part assured that he would ensure that the Christians in Rivers state turn out to honour a King who was truly deserving. The burial is fixed for the 29th and the 30th of November.