Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of renowned legal practitioner and statesman, Chief (Barr.) Lucky Ekayama Loyibo (JP), describing his passing as a monumental loss to Delta State, the Niger Delta and Nigeria.
In a condolence message issued on Tuesday and signed by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Valentine Onojeghuo Esq., the APC conveyed its sympathies to High Chief Barr. Mike Ekayama Loyibo, Prime Minister of Tuomo Kingdom, the Loyibo family, the Tuomo Kingdom and the entire Ijaw nation.
“On behalf of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Delta State, under the chairmanship of our esteemed Chairman, Elder Omeni Sobotie, we write to convey our deepest condolences to you, the Loyibo family, the Tuomo Kingdom, and the entire Ijaw nation on the painful passing of your illustrious elder brother, Late Chief (Barr.) Lucky Ekayama Loyibo, JP,” the statement read.
The party said the demise of Chief Loyibo was not only a personal loss to his family but a grievous blow to public service and nation-building, noting that he lived a life defined by integrity, service and commitment to justice.
“The demise of Chief Lucky Ekayama Loyibo is a monumental loss — not only to his immediate family but also to Delta State and Nigeria at large. He was a consummate legal practitioner, an accomplished statesman and a bridge-builder whose life was defined by service, integrity and unwavering commitment to justice and community development,” the APC stated.
Highlighting his career in public service, the party recalled that the late Chief Loyibo distinguished himself at various levels of governance, including local government administration and federal service.
“From his impactful roles in local government governance to his contributions at the federal level — particularly within the National Assembly and the Presidential Amnesty Programme — he consistently demonstrated rare leadership qualities and a deep understanding of the Niger Delta question,” the statement said.
The APC also noted that Chief Loyibo’s final public assignment as a member of the Delta State Judiciary Service Commission further reflected his dedication to institutional integrity and the rule of law. “It was therefore not surprising that on his final service in the Delta State Judiciary Service Commission, he further underscored his dedication to the rule of law and institutional integrity and uncommon fidelity,” it added.
Describing him as a proud son of Tuomo Kingdom and the Ijaw nation, the party said his traditional titles were a testament to a life devoted to the defence of his people and their future.
“As a proud son of Tuomo Kingdom and the Ijaw nation, his chieftaincy titles — Amatelemowei of Obotebe Kingdom and Ebenanaowei of Tuomo Kingdom — were clear affirmations of a life lived in defence of his people, their dignity and their future. He wore these titles with honour and responsibility,” the APC said.
While acknowledging the personal nature of the loss to High Chief Mike Ekayama Loyibo, the party prayed for strength and comfort for the family and the kingdom.
“As Prime Minister of Tuomo Kingdom and a brother, the vacuum left behind is immeasurable. We pray that you find strength in the enduring legacy of excellence, service and honour that Chief Lucky Ekayama Loyibo has left behind — one that will continue to inspire generations yet unborn,” the statement read.
The APC prayed for divine fortitude for the bereaved family and the peaceful repose of the late statesman’s soul. “May the Almighty God grant you, the Loyibo family and the entire Tuomo Kingdom the fortitude to bear this great loss and may the gentle soul of our departed leader rest in perfect peace,” it said.
