Award-winning Nigerian poet and author, Mingi-Yai Nengi Josef Owei-ilagha, fondly called Pope Pen The First, has kept his forty-day pledge to write and publish the first book on Navy Captain Omoniyi Caleb Olubolade, former military administrator of Bayelsa State, as he marked his 70th birthday anniversary on November 30, 2024.
Speaking to newsmen in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, the author clarified the paradox in the book entitled “The First Captain Of Creek Haven”, adding that it is an enduring commentary on the unique achievements of Olubolade.
“The fact of the matter is that the first Military Administrator of Bayelsa State, Navy Captain Phillip Ayeni, occupied Government House, Yenagoa. But the seat of power in Bayelsa was called Creek Haven only when Olubolade took office. In that sense, Olubolade was the first captain of Creek Haven, and his achievements are still visible in Yenagoa today.
“I began writing this book on October 21, 2024, three days after I received a challenge that I couldn’t undertake the assignment.
The book was in my hand twenty-four hours before the birthday event, and I felt justified when I handed a copy personally to the celebrant on his 70th birthday.
“I am truly grateful to retired Navy Captain Caleb Olubolade for taking a personal interest in the project and encouraging me all the way. This book tells, not just his story, but the story of Bayelsa in its infancy. It is a document that every son and daughter of Bayelsa will find valuable”, Pope Pen said.
Nengi Owei-ilagha has worked as a journalist, broadcaster, and public relations officer. Born in the Nembe local government area of Bayelsa State, he was a one-time editor of the Tide and served as the speech writer and special adviser on Research and Documentation to the Governor of Bayelsa State under the administration of the late Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha and former President Goodluck Jonathan.
