Otumara Laid to Rest As Prominent Leaders, Political Heavyweights Honour His Legacy In Delta
Sylvester Idowu Warri and its environs literally stood still Sunday as prominent political leaders, government officials, traditional stakeholders, friends and associates gathered to bid a final farewell to late Dr.
On Sunday, the vibrant city of Sylvester Idowu Warri came to a standstill as prominent political figures, government officials, traditional leaders and close friends gathered to bid farewell to Dr. Joseph Sisanmi Otumara. Dignitaries present included Delta State Governor Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, his wife Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, former Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, and Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly Hon.
Emomotimi Guwor. Otumara, a celebrated medical doctor, politician and administrator, died after a lifetime of public service holding various key roles in Delta State. The solemn funeral service took place at Yonwuren College, Ugbuwangue, Warri, in Warri South Local Government Area, and was conducted by the Itsekiri Pastors Association under the leadership of Bishop Mike Oyemiren.
Other attendees comprised former First Lady Mrs. Roli Uduaghan, APC State Chairman Chief Solomon Arenyeka, former Senator James Manager and other family members and associates of Otumara. The Warri Choral Society performed songs and tributes during the ceremony, and Bible readings were offered from Ecclesiastes 8:1-9 and 2 Peter 3:3-14.
Otumara, born on December 16, 1960, served as Chairman of the Itsekiri Politicians Forum, held the traditional title of Obarisuwa of Warri Kingdom, and was a three-time Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council. He also served as Commissioner for Health in Delta State until his death. The officiating minister, Bishop Mike Oyemiren, implored Nigerians to lead purposeful lives and leave behind legacies worthy of remembrance.
In his sermon on 'The Marketplace and Its Legacy,' Oyemiren likened life to a marketplace where everyone eventually returns home. He described Otumara as a man who completed his earthly journey and left behind a legacy of service, leadership and positive impact. The preaching urged the audience to fear God and live with eternity in view, asking, 'When we die today, what will men say about us?'
Another minister, Bishop Mike Laju, emphasized the importance of using time wisely, as everyone has a finite tenure on earth. Speaking on Otumara's legacy, APC Chairman in Delta State, Chief Solomon Arenyeka, described the deceased as a man who left 'indelible footprints on the sands of time.' He praised Otumara's kindness, humility, pathfinder spirit and unwavering faith, stating that his contributions to society would remain in the hearts of people.
The Otumara family, prominent Itsekiri leaders and friends also attended the service, observing a special gathering of songs in his honor on Thursday at the deceased's residence. Notable attendees included Warri Federal Constituency representative Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, Amaju Pinnick, Pastor Michael Diden (Ejele), Senator James Manager and many Itsekiri individuals.
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