Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Senator John Kojo Brambaifa, describing his passing as a great loss to the state and the nation.
Senator Brambaifa, who represented the Bayelsa West Senatorial District in the 5th National Assembly between 2003 and 2007, died on Saturday in a hospital in Abuja. He was 81 years old at the time of his death.
In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, Governor Diri said the late senator, popularly known as JKB, was an illustrious son of Bayelsa State who devoted his life to public service and community development.
The governor noted that Senator Brambaifa was widely respected for his political experience, leadership qualities, and commitment to the growth of his state and country. He said the former lawmaker distinguished himself during his years in public office and earned a reputation as a dependable and principled leader.
Governor Diri described the late senator as an elder statesman and an amiable gentleman whose contributions to governance would not be forgotten. According to him, Bayelsa State and Nigeria have lost a seasoned politician and a community leader who played key roles at different levels of government.
He said Senator Brambaifa left behind a legacy of unblemished service, noting that his career reflected dedication to duty and loyalty to the people he served. The governor added that the former senator’s impact was felt not only in Bayelsa State but also during the period when the state was part of the old Rivers State.
In his message, Governor Diri extended his heartfelt condolences to the Brambaifa family and the Agbere community in Sagbama Local Government Area, where the late senator hailed from. He urged them to take solace in the fact that Senator Brambaifa lived a fulfilled life marked by service and leadership.
The governor also encouraged the family and community to be comforted by the late senator’s meritorious public and political career, which he said stood as a testament to his commitment to societal progress and good governance.
Until his death, Senator Brambaifa served as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Agriculture, Bassambiri, located in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. His appointment to the position reflected his continued relevance and contribution to national development, particularly in the education sector.
Before his role at the university, Senator Brambaifa held several important positions in public service. He was a former chairman of Sagbama Local Government Council during the era of the old Rivers State, where he was credited with grassroots leadership and administrative experience.
He also served as the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Board of Internal Revenue, a position in which he played a role in strengthening the state’s revenue generation framework. His service in that capacity further highlighted his versatility and commitment to state development.
Senator Brambaifa’s death has drawn reactions from political associates, community leaders, and residents of Bayelsa State, many of whom remember him as a calm and principled leader. His contributions to politics and governance are expected to be remembered as part of the state’s political history.
As Bayelsa State mourns his passing, Governor Diri said the late senator’s legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to the public good would continue to inspire future generations.
