Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads) Comrade Reuben Izeze, has paid glowing tribute to former Delta State Attorney-General and respected legal luminary, Chief Victor Duro Otomiewo Esq., as he marked his 70th birthday, describing him as a leader, mentor and pillar of support whose influence transformed lives.
In an emotional goodwill message celebrating Otomiewo’s seven decades of life and service, Izeze recounted how the former Attorney-General played a defining role in his personal and educational journey following a turbulent period during his student activism days at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun.
According to him, his ordeal began during the 1998/1999 academic session while serving as Speaker of the PTI Students Representative Council, when he and other student leaders faced disciplinary measures after protesting poor welfare conditions in the institution, including prolonged lack of electricity, water supply and deteriorating facilities.
He alleged that the student leaders were unfairly targeted despite their advocacy contributing to the release of substantial funding to the institution.
Izeze recalled that during the crisis, a PTI staff member directed him to Otomiewo, who was then President-General of the Uvwie General Improvement Union (UGIU).
Their first meeting, he said, took place in August 1999 at the palace of the late Ovie of Uvwie in Effurun after Otomiewo had reviewed a petition the students submitted to key government officials and stakeholders.
He explained that after presenting his case before traditional leaders and the executive of UGIU, Otomiewo encouraged him to pursue a legal career.
According to him, Otomiewo’s words remained unforgettable.
“Young man, what are you wasting your time for in PTI? Forget about them and go and read Law. You are a born lawyer,” he quoted the celebrant as saying.
Izeze revealed that Otomiewo subsequently supported his academic aspirations by funding examination registrations and encouraging him toward university education.
He further noted that with Otomiewo’s support, alongside traditional institutions and student leaders, they eventually secured justice and succeeded in returning to complete their studies.
Beyond academics, Izeze described the former Attorney-General as a mentor who remained steadfast over the years, offering guidance, encouragement and constructive criticism.
He also praised Otomiewo’s commitment to community development and personal relationships, recalling several shared moments spanning more than two decades.
Reflecting on Otomiewo’s vitality at 70, Izeze noted that he still actively participates in football and remains energetic.
He prayed for continued good health and longevity for the elder statesman while expressing optimism about celebrating his 80th birthday in the future.
“May God bless your new year sir and I look forward to celebrating your 80th birthday with you in good health of body and mind,” he said.
Chief Victor Otomiewo, a former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Delta State, is widely regarded as one of the state’s respected legal figures and community leaders.
