By Mokobia Rita.
WARRI/Nigeria: Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and other political leaders on Saturday joined family members, associates and community leaders in Warri to honour the late Dr. Joseph Sisanmi Otumara, former Delta State Commissioner for Health and three-term Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council.
The funeral service, held at Yonwuren College, Ugbuwangue, Warri, brought together prominent figures from Delta’s political, traditional and community circles to celebrate the life and public service of the deceased.
Among those who attended were Governor Oborevwori and his wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; former Governor Okowa; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; former First Lady, Mrs. Roli Uduaghan; Delta State APC Chairman, Chief Solomon Arenyeka; and former Senator James Manager.
The service was conducted by the Itsekiri Pastors Association under the leadership of Bishop Mike Oyemiren.
In his sermon, titled “The Marketplace and Its Legacy,” Bishop Oyemiren urged the congregation to reflect on the purpose of life and the kind of legacy individuals leave behind.
He described life as temporary and encouraged people to pursue values and deeds capable of making a lasting difference beyond their lifetime.
The cleric said Otumara’s years in public service and leadership provided a basis for remembering him as someone who contributed to the affairs of his community and state.
Also speaking during the service, Bishop Mike Laju stressed the importance of making responsible use of time, noting that everyone has a limited period to fulfil their purpose on earth.
Born on December 16, 1960, Otumara occupied several political and administrative positions during his lifetime.
He served three terms as Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council and later served as Delta State Commissioner for Health.
He was also Chairman of the Warri/Uvwie and Special Area Development Agency and, until his death, Chairman of the Itsekiri Politicians Forum.
Otumara also held the traditional title of Obarisuwa of Warri Kingdom.
In his tribute, Arenyeka described the deceased as a humble, God-fearing and visionary leader whose contributions to governance and community development touched many lives.
The APC chairman said Otumara’s involvement in public affairs had left an impression on the political and social landscape of Warri and Delta State.
The gathering ended with tributes to the deceased and reflections on his years of service to the state and his community.
