WARRI/Nigeria: Former Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has described the death of former Commissioner and political leader, Chief Dr. Joseph Sisanmi Otumara, as a monumental loss to Delta State, saying his passing marks the end of an era of dedicated public service, grassroots leadership and political mentorship.
Okowa spoke on Tuesday during a condolence visit to the family of the late elder statesman in Warri, where he paid glowing tribute to a man he described as a dependable friend, trusted ally and accomplished public servant whose contributions to the development of Delta State would remain unforgettable.
The former governor said Otumara distinguished himself through decades of service to the people, earning widespread respect for his humility, calm disposition and unwavering commitment to the progress of his community and the state.
According to him, the late politician played significant roles in governance and development, particularly in Warri and its environs, where he left an enduring legacy through various leadership positions he held over the years.
Chief Otumara served three terms as Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council and later held key appointments as Commissioner for Special Duties, Commissioner for Housing and Commissioner for Health in Delta State. He also served twice as Chairman of the Warri/Uvwie and Environs Development Commission, where he spearheaded several developmental initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and living conditions in the area.
Reflecting on their long-standing relationship, Okowa recalled the pivotal role Otumara played during his successful 2015 governorship campaign, serving as Director-General of the campaign organisation and contributing significantly to the political process that culminated in his election as governor.
“We lost a great statesman, a great politician and community leader. Dr. Joseph was a good friend, ever calm and humane. Chief Dr. Otumara played a great role in my race to Government House, Asaba, as Governor. Thanks for all you did, Joseph. May your gentle soul rest in peace. Adieu, our brother,” Okowa said.
The former governor was received on arrival by Pa Erebo Ebiyon, Head of the Ebisanine Family, alongside leaders of the Warri South Political Family, where the deceased was widely regarded as a respected leader, mentor and bridge-builder.
Okowa later met with the widow, Mrs. Tina Otumara, and other members of the bereaved family, offering words of comfort and prayers while urging them to draw strength from the remarkable legacy of service, leadership and integrity left behind by the late statesman.
He noted that although Otumara’s death had created a vacuum in Delta’s political and social landscape, the values he embodied and the lives he touched would continue to inspire future generations.
Family members, political associates, community leaders and sympathisers who gathered during the visit paid tribute to the deceased, describing him as a unifying figure whose influence transcended politics and whose commitment to public service positively impacted countless lives.
Okowa prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed leader and encouraged the family to find solace in the enduring legacy he bequeathed to Delta State and the people of Warri South.
The condolence visit formed part of a growing stream of tributes from political leaders, associates and admirers across the state, reflecting the immense respect and affection Chief Dr. Joseph Sisanmi Otumara commanded during his lifetime.
