KWALE/Nigeria: Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has expressed deep condolences to the family of the late Joshua Opia of Ndokwa West Local Government Area, describing his death as a painful loss to politics, security advocacy and community development in Delta State.
Opia, who died at the age of 48, was a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a close political associate of Senator Nwoko. He served as Director of Security Services in the senator’s 2023 campaign organisation and was later appointed Executive Assistant to the Senator on Security and Niger Delta Affairs.
The senator, who spoke during a condolence visit to the Opia family shortly after the interment in Kwale, was represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Michael Nwoko. He described the late Opia as “a dedicated, focused, resourceful and disciplined young man” whose commitment to service stood out among his peers.
According to Senator Nwoko, Opia’s passing represents a profound personal and political loss, noting that he served with uncommon dedication, unwavering loyalty and a high sense of responsibility, discharging his duties with purpose and decorum.
He further described the late APC stalwart as a passionate advocate of peace, security and development, stressing that Opia made notable contributions to the Niger Delta struggle for equity and inclusion in the oil-rich but long-marginalised region.
While pledging continued support to the family, particularly the widow, Mrs. Ozioma Opia, and the children, Senator Nwoko prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul and for divine strength for the family to bear the irreparable loss.
The funeral ceremony in Kwale attracted a large gathering of political leaders and government officials, including the Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme; the Executive Chairman of Ndokwa West Local Government, Chief Obi Nzete; APC Chairman in Ndokwa West, Hon. Greg Onah; former member of the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Azuka Azaka; Secretary of the 1st Phase Presidential Amnesty Programme, Hon. Pastor Nature Kieghe; and former Chairman of Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, Abia State, Hon. Sir Ugoala, among others.
Until his death, the late Joshua Opia, a grassroots politician, security expert and philanthropist, also served as Senior Special Assistant on Political Matters to the Delta State Governor.
