Engineer | Politician | Monarch | Businessman
His Royal Majesty, Engineer Richardford Orukarebai Koroye, was a distinguished son of Toru‑Orua community in Sagbama Local Government Area, Bayelsa State. A visionary engineer, astute politician, and revered monarch, he devoted his life to service, excellence, and the advancement of his people. Through the 1970s and 1980s, he stood among the finest minds shaping the infrastructural and socio‑economic development of the former Rivers State. His reign as Pere of Tarakiri Kingdom crowned a lifetime of achievement, integrity, and leadership.
Early Life and Heritage
Born on November 27, 1937, Richardford Koroye hailed from royal lineage. His father, King Okorie Kpadia, was a respected and affluent monarch of the colonial era, remembered for his statesmanship and representation of the Western‑Ijaw people in the House of Chiefs in Western Nigeria. His mother, Queen Abariara (Kemepado), was from Ogoinwari quarters in Patani, Delta State. As the eldest and only son among four children, young Richardford inherited a legacy of discipline, intellect, and service.
Education and Formation
A prince with a passion for learning, he began his education at Community Primary School Agbere and Community Primary School Ebedebiri in Sagbama LGA. He later attended Government College, Ughelli, where he earned his West African School Certificate. His pursuit of excellence led him to Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he graduated in 1966 with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering—a rare feat for his generation and a testament to his determination.
Professional Career
Engineer Koroye began his career with T.A. Oni & Sons Ltd., Ibadan, before joining the Bendel Development and Planning Authority (BDPA) in Benin City (1969–1972). His brilliance soon drew the attention of the Rivers State Government, where he transferred in 1972 and rose to become Director of Highways in the Ministry of Works and Transport. His tenure was marked by precision, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
In 1983, his leadership and expertise earned him appointment as Commissioner for Highways under the administration of Governor Melford Okilo. Known for his open‑door policy and humility, he welcomed all who sought his counsel. Though his service was interrupted by the military takeover later that year, his contributions to the state’s infrastructure and governance remained indelible.
Beyond public service, Engineer Koroye was a versatile entrepreneur. He established successful ventures in livestock farming, bakeries, ice‑cream production, and civil construction, combining technical acumen with business insight. His enterprises provided employment and fostered economic growth across the Niger Delta.
Political and Royal Ascendancy
A quiet yet influential political figure, Koroye championed the interests of the Western‑Ijaw people throughout his career. His advocacy for development and empowerment earned him deep respect among his peers. In 2000, he sought the throne of his ancestors—the Pere of Tarakiri Kingdom—and though his first bid was unsuccessful, destiny prevailed in 2012. On October 6, 2012, he was crowned HRM (Engr.) Richardford Orukarebai Koroye Kpadia V, Angolokirimosou, Pere of Tarakiri Kingdom, at Ebedebiri. His reign was characterized by peace, wisdom, and progress until his passing on October 17, 2022, at 7 p.m.
Leisure and Personality
Beyond his professional and royal duties, King Koroye was a man of refined taste and gentle spirit. He found joy in swimming, photography, fishing, and reading, pursuits that reflected his contemplative nature. His generosity and philanthropy touched countless lives, and his home was a haven of warmth and hospitality. He cherished family moments, valuing unity and love above all.
Family and Legacy
A devoted husband and father, King Koroye’s family life mirrored his sense of order and responsibility. All his children were born within lawful marriages. His first wife, Queen Pere‑Ere (Obodugu) of Adagbabiri, was joined by Queen Cecilia Eneni (Nelson Abali) of Otakeme and Queen Ebikenie (Oweifie, deceased) of Isampou. He is survived by two wives and twenty‑one children, all university graduates—a testament to his belief in education and legacy of excellence.
Passing and Remembrance
The transition of HRM (Engr.) Richardford Orukarebai Koroye on October 17, 2022, marked the close of a luminous chapter in Bayelsa’s history. His life embodied service, intellect, and leadership. As engineer, commissioner, monarch, and philanthropist, he built bridges—literal and symbolic—that continue to connect generations. His memory endures as a beacon of dignity, progress, and devotion to the Tarakiri Kingdom and the Ijaw nation.
May his noble soul rest in eternal peace.
