...Describes Him As A Unifying Leader
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Wednesday paid a condolence visit to the family of former Commissioner for Health, late Dr. Joseph Sisanmi Otumara, at his country home in Ugbuwangue, Warri South Local Government Area.
Speaking during the visit, Governor Oborevwori described the late physician, community leader and politician as a man who lived an impactful life marked by humility, service, peace and dedication to his people.
The governor said the large gathering of mourners at the residence was a testament to the remarkable life Dr. Otumara lived and the enduring legacy he left behind.
He said: "I am not here to mourn because when you look at the faces here today, you will understand that Dr. Otumara lived a fulfilled life. He touched many lives and earned the respect and admiration of people across different communities".
The governor recalled his long-standing relationship with the deceased, noting that he had known him for many years and admired his consistency, simplicity and commitment to peace.
He said: "I knew Dr. Otumara so many years ago. He remained the same humble and peaceful man throughout his life time. He was a man who brought people together and never discriminated against anyone. He loved his community and always worked for the unity and progress of the people.
"I personally visited him after church one day and was planning another visit. Sadly, that did not happen. It is very painful and very sad".
He assured the family and the people of Warri South that the state government would continue to honour the memory and contributions of the late elder statesman.
According to him, one of the greatest tributes that could be paid to Dr. Otumara would be the sustenance of peace and unity in the community.
"What we owe him now is the commitment to sustain the unity and peace he worked so hard to build. Dr. Otumara was a peaceful man who accommodated everyone. Whenever I visited his home, I always found people around him because he was respected by all," he said.
Continuing, he said; "Warri is my second home. This is where I lived most of my life. Dr. Otumara served his people faithfully and with a good heart. We thank God for his life and we thank all those who stood by him and his family."
While signing the condolence register, Governor Oborevwori wrote: "I commiserate with the Otumara family over the demise of Dr. Joseph Otumara. May God grant the family and the people of Warri South the fortitude to bear the great loss.
"My prayers and thoughts are with the family. May his soul rest in peace. Adieu Otus!"
Speaking on behalf of the family, Dr. Andrew Megbele thanked the governor for his unwavering support and friendship towards the deceased, particularly during his illness.
Megbele said; "I know for sure that Your Excellency visited him several times, even before the election campaigns. You were very close to him and did everything possible to ensure he received the best treatment and medication while he was in the hospital.
"As a family, we appreciate all that you did for him. Though we spared no effort in seeking medical care for him, when it is time to go, it is time to go. We are grateful that our governor can testify to the quality of life he lived and the kind of person he was."
