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Preparations have reached an advanced stage for the burial of renowned community leader, grassroots politician, and respected elder statesman, Hon Sunday Kpikpi Kotor, popularly known as “Ilewheri,” whose final funeral rites have been scheduled for Friday, June 26, 2026, in his hometown of Okwagbe Waterside, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.
The announcement, made by members of the Kotor, Oruku, and Akpotor families, has continued to attract reactions from political associates, community leaders, friends, and admirers across Delta State, many of whom have described his death as a painful loss to the Urhobo nation and the wider political community.
Late Sunday, Kpikpi Kotor, who passed on at the age of 63, was widely known for his active participation in grassroots politics, community development initiatives, and efforts aimed at fostering peace and unity among diverse groups within his area of influence.
Throughout his lifetime, he built a reputation as a man who believed strongly in service to humanity. His commitment to helping people, resolving disputes, mentoring younger generations, and promoting communal harmony earned him the respect and admiration of many within and outside his community.
According to the funeral programme released by the family, activities marking his final journey will commence on Monday, June 22, 2026, with a Day of Tributes at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
The event is expected to attract political leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, community stakeholders, and friends who will gather to celebrate the life and times of the late Ilewheri and reflect on his contributions to society.
A Service of Songs will follow on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Faith Baptist Church, DSC Township, Warri, beginning at 4:00 p.m. The service will provide an opportunity for family members, church faithful, friends, and associates to offer prayers and songs of worship in honour of the deceased.
The high point of the funeral activities will take place on Friday, June 26, when the remains of late Sunday Kpikpi Kotor will be conveyed from the Nigerian Navy Hospital, Effurun, to Okwagbe Waterside.
A funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. at Okwagbe Secondary School Field, where ministers of the gospel will officiate and pay tribute to a man many have described as a pillar of support to his family, community, and associates.
Following the funeral service, interment rites will be conducted, after which guests from across the state and beyond will be entertained at the same venue.
The final funeral activity will take place on Sunday, June 28, 2026, with a Thanksgiving Service at Central Baptist Church, Okwagbe Waterside, where family members and well-wishers will gather to appreciate God for the life, accomplishments, and legacy of the departed patriarch.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr Conference Kotor and Mr Emuesiri Kotor expressed appreciation to all those who have shown love and support since the passing of their beloved father and brother. They called on friends, associates, political allies, and members of the public to join the family in giving the late Sunday Kpikpi Kotor a befitting farewell.
Meanwhile, tributes have continued to pour in from various quarters, with many describing the deceased as a humble leader, committed grassroots mobilizer, and dependable community figure whose life was dedicated to the service of others.
Several associates recalled his generosity, accessibility, and passion for community progress, noting that he remained a strong voice for the people and a steadfast advocate for peace and development throughout his lifetime.
For many residents of Okwagbe and surrounding communities, the passing of Sunday Kpikpi Kotor marks the end of an era. However, they maintain that his legacy of service, friendship, compassion, and dedication to humanity will continue to inspire future generations.
