The final journey of Navy Captain Caleb Omoniyi Olubolade (Rtd) unfolded over two poignant days filled with reflection and gratitude, culminating in heartfelt ceremonies that celebrated his life and legacy.
The ceremonies commenced with a Service of Songs on Friday evening at St. John Military Protestant Church, Bonny Cantonment. Among the mourners, Dame Patience Jonathan read from Ecclesiastes 2:1–12, while Mrs. Esther Yemisi delivered another scripture reading, intertwining faith with the solemnity of the occasion.
As prayers filled the air, waves of tributes flowed from friends and colleagues worldwide, some shared in person, others pre-recorded. The following morning, mourners gathered once more for a funeral service, after which the cortege moved to the Vaults and Gardens in Ikoyi for interment. The day concluded with a reception at the Naval Dockyard Limited, Victoria Island.
A Life That Bridged Regions and Cultures
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) poignantly described Olubolade as “a nobleman and illustrious son,” noting that his passing occurred when he was most needed. In a message signed by National Chairman Amb. (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, the forum highlighted Olubolade’s dual identity as both a sailor and a politician, revered for his stern leadership paired with warm humanity.
Though proudly Yoruba, Olubolade was affectionately regarded as “an Ijaw man in spirit” for his deep love for Bayelsa State, where he served as Military Administrator. PANDEF urged his family to take pride in his impactful legacy, emphasizing that life is measured by the influence one has, rather than the years lived.
Bayelsa’s Governor Recalls a Man of Peace
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State painted a vivid portrait of Olubolade as a man belonging to multiple regions. He described him as a “dual citizen” of Nigeria—Yoruba by birth and Bayelsan by service. Diri recounted a tense moment during Olubolade’s tenure when he chose peace over violence, avoiding the shedding of innocent blood. “We love him, but God loves him most,” Diri said, reflecting on how Olubolade’s recent 70th birthday celebration felt like a farewell.
Ekiti’s Governor Urges Pride in His Legacy
From the Southwest, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji encouraged Olubolade’s family to find solace in the glowing tributes that depicted him as an exemplary father. He expressed gratitude to Bayelsa for honoring one of Ekiti’s finest, demonstrating a spirit of national unity.
Aide-de-Camp Remembers a Visionary Leader
Rear Admiral Ayodeji Olumide Olugbode, Olubolade’s former Aide-de-Camp, described him as a visionary leader whose influence extended across the Navy and public administration. He recounted Olubolade’s foundational contributions to Bayelsa’s governance and his establishment of the State Council for Arts and Culture, which continues to preserve Ijaw heritage.
Olugbode noted that Olubolade’s later ministerial roles—such as Minister of Special Duties and Minister of Police Affairs—were testaments to his competence and integrity in both military and democratic realms.
Friendship Forged in the Military
Rear Admiral Rotimi Ademoletin reminisced about their bond, which began at the Nigerian Defence Academy, where both men were state scholarship recipients. It was Olubolade who encouraged him to join the 16th Regular Course, shaping his career. They celebrated life’s milestones together and remained inseparable throughout their journeys.
Rear Admiral John Jonah shared lighter memories, including how Olubolade taught him to drive in India, pushing him onto the highway at high speeds after just an hour of practice.
A Farewell, Not a Goodbye
As the ceremonies concluded and the sun dipped over Lagos, one enduring truth emerged: Olubolade was more than a naval officer, politician, or administrator. He was a bridge between cultures, a leader who prioritized peace, and a friend whose influence spanned decades.
In the words of one mourner, “We say goodbye for now, but never goodbye forever.”
