How Oborevwori’s CPS mum’s quiet devotion became community legacy
On a bright Saturday morning in Ovwodavwaren, Ughelli, Delta State, the pews of Bishop Agori-Iwe Memorial Anglican Church filled steadily with worshippers, family members and dignitaries. At the heart of
On a bright Saturday morning in Ovwodavwaren, Ughelli, Delta State, the pews of Bishop Agori-Iwe Memorial Anglican Church filled steadily with worshippers, family members and dignitaries.
At the heart of it all sat a woman whose presence drew both reverence and curiosity—not just because she had reached the rare age of 100, but also because of how she had lived every one of those years.
Mrs. Esther Ahon, mother of the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Delta State Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, did not arrive as a frail observer of her own celebration.
She came as she always has—early, composed and fully present in worship. For many in the congregation, that simple act said everything.
“Even at 100, she remains punctual and active in the church,” Venerable Oghomena Diakeleho-Edjere remarked during his sermon, his tone both reflective and admiring.
He described her as a “living legend,” a woman who chose to be celebrated in her lifetime, not for mere longevity, but also for a life rooted in unwavering faith and service.
In a world where consistency often fades with time, Mama Ahon, as she is fondly called, has built a quiet legacy on showing up.
Decade after decade, she has maintained a rhythm of devotion: attending church regularly, participating actively, and embodying the values she holds dear. It is this constancy, more than her age that has made her an enduring symbol within her community.
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Her story is also one of family and far-reaching influence. As the mother of Sir Festus Ahon, CPS to Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other prominent children, she is widely acknowledged as the moral compass behind a household known for discipline and purpose.
Those close to the family often point to her as the foundation upon which their values were built.
Representing Governor Oborevwori, the Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, echoed this sentiment.
He noted that while reaching 100 years is remarkable, what stands out most is the quality of those years—marked by humility, dignity and an enduring commitment to raising responsible children and contributing positively to the society.
He reflected on the deeper meaning of honour, stressing that beyond political titles and public recognition, the most respected identity is one earned through character.
For Mama Ahon, that honour finds expression in the revered title of “Okpakorere”—a status reserved for elders whose lives reflect integrity and divine favour.
For her family, the celebration was both joyous and deeply emotional. In a heartfelt vote of thanks, her son, Moses Ahon, described her as the first in their lineage to reach such a milestone—a matriarch whose longevity has become a symbol of pride, unity and reflection.
“We are grateful not just for her long life, but also for the life she has lived,” he said, capturing the mood of a family aware that they were witnessing history.
The celebration extended beyond the church into a colourful reception at Ughelli Garden Hotel grounds.
There, the atmosphere shifted into festivity—music, laughter and warm embraces filled the space as guests from across political, traditional and social circles gathered to honour her.
Among them was the Executive Chairman of Bomadi Local Government Council, Dagidi Andaye, who described Mama Ahon as a virtuous woman, whose legacy is visible in the lives of her children and the values they uphold.
His presence, he noted, also reflected a personal bond with the family, particularly with Sir Festus Ahon.
As the centenarian took centre stage once more—this time surrounded by children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren—the moment carried a powerful symbolism.
With steady hands and a radiant smile, she cut her birthday cake, marking not just the passage of time, but also a century filled with faith, resilience, sacrifice and quiet triumphs.
In an age defined by speed and constant change, Esther Ahon’s life offers a different lesson—one of patience, discipline and enduring faith.
It is a reminder that greatness is not always loud or dramatic. Sometimes, it is found in a lifetime of small, consistent acts: showing up, staying grounded and living by values that outlast generations.
At 100, Mama Ahon is not simply celebrating a milestone, she is also telling a story—one that will continue to echo long after the candles are blown out.
