High Chief Kestin Pondi is a figure widely recognized for his extensive philanthropic endeavors across Gbaramatu and Ogulagha Kingdoms in Delta State. His generosity has been a consistent theme, impacting numerous lives through empowerment initiatives. While his primary identity is that of a philanthropist, a recent event revealed a less-known facet of his personality: a profound passion for culture, demonstrated through his masterful direction of a remarkable funeral celebration for his father-in-law, Captain William Ayagbene Elaweremi. This event, described as a “carnival of culture without cloud and clash,” showcased Pondi’s hidden talents in orchestrating grand cultural displays. The narrative of High Chief Kestin Pondi’s philanthropic legacy is well-established. He is often compared to global figures for his boundless generosity. However, his role as a curator, dramatist, and director of plays and movies, with a deep appreciation for cultural expression, was a surprise to many. This aspect of his character came to the forefront during the burial of his father-in-law, Captain William Ayagbene Elaweremi, which took place in Ayakoromo on December 6, 2025. What is a cultural carnival without cloud and clash? It refers to an event meticulously planned and executed to showcase rich cultural traditions and performances without any disruptions, conflicts, or negative incidents. It signifies a harmonious and celebratory atmosphere where all elements of the cultural display unfold seamlessly, leaving a lasting positive impression on attendees. Captain William Ayagbene Elaweremi, a distinguished maritime captain, lived a full life of 87 years before his passing on May 1, 2025. His career with NBTC spanned 35 years, during which he progressed from a deckhand to a captain, retiring in 2005 after an unblemished service record. His roots in Ayakoromo, Isaba, and Peretoru, across Delta and Bayelsa States, signify a deep connection to his heritage. Elaweremi’s passing deeply affected his daughter, Chief Blessing Kestin Pondi. Witnessing her profound grief, High Chief Kestin Pondi devised a dual strategy: to honor his father-in-law’s memory with an extraordinary celebration and to help his wife navigate her sorrow. He believed a vibrant cultural tribute would uplift mourners and provide a cathartic experience. The social wake for Captain Elaweremi on December 5, 2025, was designed to be an unforgettable event. To honor his maritime career, Pondi creatively extended the journey of Elaweremi’s body from Warri to Ayakoromo by using two large barges. These barges were elaborately decorated and served as floating stages for musicians and dancers, recreating the essence of Elaweremi’s life at sea. The procession, which lasted over four hours, became a moving spectacle as the barges sailed through various riparian communities. These communities were treated to a captivating display of Ijaw songs and dance, performed by talented entertainers on the barges and accompanying speedboats. The slow, dignified pace allowed spectators to fully appreciate the cultural richness of the event. Upon reaching Ayakoromo River, the barges strategically stopped to allow for a unique maritime entertainment experience. Cultural troupes from different boats emerged, performing synchronized dances and traditional war songs. A traditional war boat, adorned with palm fronds, captivated the audience with its energetic display, marking a historically significant maritime entertainment for the Ayakoromo people. For over thirty minutes, Ayakoromo was immersed in this meticulously directed maritime spectacle. After the performances, the barges sailed to the waterfront for the disembarkation of attendees. The golden coffin was then ceremoniously transported to Elaweremi’s home, accompanied by the vibrant dance of the casket troupe and pall-bearers, signifying a historically referential ennoblement. The celebration continued into the night with a social wake that brought together dignitaries from politics, entertainment, and business. Various cultural entertainers, including Urhobo and Igbo performers, as well as Ijaw musicians Dr. Izonebi Alfred and Chief Kingsley Takemebo, provided live entertainment. The event was further enhanced by an abundance of food and drinks, with thirty live cows prepared in diverse dishes. As a gesture of appreciation, Pondi distributed bags of rice and groundnut oil to the guests, a novel act of souvenir-giving in Ayakoromo. Despite these elaborate efforts, Chief Blessing Kestin Pondi continued to weep as her father was being lowered into the grave. Pondi’s empathetic advice for her to express her grief fully at the graveyard, so she wouldn’t carry that sorrow home, provided a philosophical balm. The burial of Captain Elaweremi was marked by a day of exceptional weather, with only a brief, symbolic drizzle upon the barges’ arrival. This was interpreted as a sign of divine approval and support. The absence of rain and any form of conflict on December 5, 2025, solidified the event’s description as a “carnival of culture without cloud and clash.” High Chief Engr. Kestin Pondi’s name is now etched in the memory of the Ayakoromo people for orchestrating this historically significant and culturally rich celebration, which will undoubtedly be preserved in their folklore and ballads.
