BIOGRAPHY OF LATE CHIEF BRUNO IGWEMHOR AIKABELI (1942-2024)
Early Life and Family Background:
Late Chief Bruno Igwemhor Aikabeli was born on October 6, 1942, into the family of Late Pa Momoh Aikabeli and Madam Salametu Emariemhe Aikabeli (née Agbayekhai) in Ivhido Quarter, Ogbona town, Avianwu, Etsako Central Local Government Area, Edo State. He was the second child of his mother, who had three sons: Late Pa James Akhagbemhe Aikabeli, Christopher Imhonikhe Aikabeli (the last surviving member of their lineage), and their half-brother, Late Pa Julius Akhibe Aikabeli.
Education:
Chief Bruno began his education at Etsako District Council School (EDC) from 1954 to 1959, where he earned a one-year scholarship from the Ogbona Progressive Union due to his high level of responsibility. He continued his secondary education at St. Thomas Secondary School (now St. Peter’s Secondary School) in Agenebode from 1960 to 1961 and St. Andrew’s Anglican Secondary Model School in Fugar from 1961 to 1962.
Work Experience and Entrepreneurial Spirit:
Chief Bruno’s career was marked by resilience and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. His determination to succeed saw him venture into multiple business ventures throughout his life. He began his professional journey at the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources in Okpe farm settlement, Igarra, from 1963 to 1964. After being denied recruitment into the police force in 1964, he refused to give up. He worked for Mr. Anderson H. Smith, a Canadian expatriate and educational adviser, as a domestic servant from 1964 to 1966. His spirit of persistence then led him to Monier Construction Company (MCC) in Warri, where he rose from being a laborer to a clerk, managing site workers’ employment and payroll from 1966 to 1972.
In 1972, Chief Bruno ventured into the oil and gas business, becoming a dealer for Total Oil. With the same determination, he registered as a contractor with the Edo State Government, securing contracts that included construction of buildings, supplying furniture to hospitals and government institutions. By 1976, he transitioned from Total Oil to British Petroleum (BP), where he operated until 1993. His entrepreneurial pursuits continued in the cold room business, which he managed from 1996 to 2006. He stepped back from active business in 2006 due to health challenges.
Marital Life:
Chief Bruno married Mrs. Celina (née Nasamu Odior) in 1968, The union was blessed with a daughter before the marriage ended in divorce. He later married Mrs. Victoria Izokone (née Iwenekhai) in 1978, who remained his wife until his passing. He also married Mrs. Ayo (née Onobun) in 1980 and Mrs. Anne (née Ikediashi). He was blessed with nine children: two sons and seven daughters.
Humility, Kindness, and Legacy of Empowerment:
Chief Bruno was known for his deep humility and kindness. He welcomed everyone who crossed his path, opening his home to many and generously sharing his resources to uplift those in need. Whether young or old, he empowered people by providing financial support and mentorship. His house became a beacon of hope for many, a home to all who needed shelter, support, or guidance. His legacy of generosity left a lasting impact on his community, as he was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He remained a happy man even during times of lack and difficulty, always maintaining a positive and cheerful outlook. His virtues and good works left an indelible mark on those who knew him, and he will be deeply missed for his compassion, joy, and service to humanity.
Social Life:
A social and community-minded individual, his love for his community and people was unrivaled. In service to his community, Chief Bruno was a very active member of the Ogbona Imhakhena Union (now Ogbona Federated Union) he joined the union when he arrived in Benin City in 1965. He served as the union’s treasurer from 1972 to 2003 and was recognized for his long service and dedication. He was also a patron of Oboareke Social Club, Ibadan, and a member of Oyakhilome Social Club, Benin, where he served as treasurer and an auditing panel member. For his dedication, love, and services to the development and growth of the Ogbona community, in 1994, he was conferred with the chieftaincy title of “Igbevhome of Avianwu” by His Royal Highness, the Oghieavianwu of Avianwu.
Christian Life:
In 1995, Chief Bruno fully embraced the Christian faith and became an active member of Believers Ministries, where he was baptized and served in various capacities, including treasurer of the Uselu-Ugbowo Zonal Fellowship. He continued his Christian service at Sower Bible Church, and later at Christian Family Love Ministry International, where he was ordained as an elder in 2010. He served faithfully in this role until the Lord called him home on August 4, 2024.
May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.
