By Amos Odhe, Yenagoa
The people of the Territory of Alei in Oyiakiri Clan have elected a new Alei of Aleibiri.
He is Agbekeme James Sarakiri, who holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Corporate Finance from the Rivers State University and a retired public servant.
Dr. Agbekeme Sarakiri was the sole candidate for the Alei stool, in the election, which took place on Saturday, September 21, 2024, and polled a total of 60 “Yes” votes out of 61 ballots cast by delegates from the four zones of the Alei territory.
One invalid vote was recorded.
The election of the new Amananaowei of Aleibiri comes after Chief Simon Ebebi was proclaimed to have joined his ancestors on April 6, 2024.
A team of observers from the Bayelsa State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs led by Mr Samuel Okara commended the regent, Chief Justin Enairegha; the Alei Council of Chiefs chairman, the 5-man electoral panel and people of Alei territory for the peaceful and successful election.
The state government team also congratulated the Alei-elect.
Meanwhile, the regent, Chief Justin Enairegha; the chairman of Alei Council of Chiefs, Chief Elisha Guembe; Chief Suru Oyarede and a former deputy governor of Bayelsa State, Mr Peremobowei Ebebi all said the Alei-elect, Dr Agbekeme Sarakiri’s proven track record in service and passion for the development of the Alei territory stood him out.
They expressed confidence that his reign will usher in peace, unity and prosperity to the territory and people of Aleibiri.
The former monarch was the father of the former speaker and Deputy governor of Bayelsa state, Rt Hon Peremobowei Ebebi was on the throne from 1983 to 2024.
