Cheers, Praises As Diete-Spiff Clocks 70

Rivers State Governor, Rt Hon Chibuike Amaechi, has joined thousands of dignitaries across the country to pour encomiums on the legacies of first Governor of old Rivers  State and Amanyanabo of Twon Brass, King Alfred Diete -Spiff  on his 70th birthday.

Speaking at a special birthday party held in honour of the former governor at Government House, last Saturday, Amaechi wished him more years ahead.

‘I wish you a wonderful birthday and I wish and pray to be 70 years like you”, Amaechi said.

Governor Amaechi, who gave a Jaguar SUC car to the ex-governor as birthday gift, also promised that the state government would build a house for him, if need be.

Secretary to the State Government, Mr George Feyii said King Diete-Spiff was worthy of celebration, while describing him as  a jovial and sociable person.

Prof. Otonti Nduka described the former governor as one who had made the most improvement in the lives of Rivers people.

Prof Nduka congratulated the former governor on attaining the biblical three-scores and one and commended him for the patience he displayed during his tenure as member of the state cabinet during the war.

Chairman of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council, King Godwin Giniwa lauded the state government  for the honour done to Diete-Spiff, and recalled that he and the ex-governor had known themselves for over 50 years.

Publisher of the Hard Truth Newspaper, Mr Opunabo Inkoh-Tariah described Diete-Spiff as an icon and  an institution. “A man worthy of celebration”.

On his part, King Diete-Spiff expressed delight for the honour done to him, and thanked the people and government of Rivers State for sharing in the moment.

His words, “ It’s been a pleasant journey through life. I have met people, especially those who give you advice that may not be too pleasant.

“For you all, keep on doing what you are doing, insist to keep doing the right thing all the time. Your effort will amount to something,” he said.

Highlights of the occasion include special performance by the state Council of Arts and Culture a symphony led by Dr Wodi Williams, who read the former governor’s biography.

Former Deputy Governor, Sir Gabriel Toby oversaw the cutting of the birthday cake, while trophies were presented to winners of a golf tourney in honour of the king by the Port Harcourt Golf Club.