Otumara laid to rest as Delta leaders honour his legacy
Translated from English and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.
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- Dr. Joseph Sisanmi Otumara was buried in Warri after a funeral attended by Delta State political leaders, officials, traditional figures, friends and relatives.
- Otumara held several public roles, including three terms as chairman of Warri South Local Government Council and service as Delta State health commissioner.
- Clergy and political leaders praised his public service and urged Nigerians to live purposeful lives and leave meaningful legacies.
Warri and surrounding areas came to a standstill on Sunday as prominent political leaders, government officials, traditional stakeholders, friends and associates gathered to bid farewell to Dr. Joseph Sisanmi Otumara.
Those attending included Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his wife, Tobore Oborevwori, former governor Ifeanyi Okowa and Delta State House of Assembly Speaker Emomotimi Guwor. Former First Lady Roli Uduaghan, APC state chairman Solomon Arenyeka, former senator James Manager, members of the Otumara family and other associates also attended.
Nobody visits the market and does not return home.
The funeral service took place at Yonwuren College in Ugbuwangue, Warri South Local Government Area. The Itsekiri Pastors Association led the service, while the Warri Choral Society performed songs and hymns. Bible readings came from Ecclesiastes 8:1-9 and 2 Peter 3:3-14.
When we die today, what will men say about us?
Otumara, born on December 16, 1960, was a medical doctor, politician and administrator. He chaired the Itsekiri Politicians Forum, held the traditional title of Obarisuwa of Warri Kingdom, served three times as chairman of Warri South Local Government Council and was Delta State commissioner for health. From 2019 until his death, he chaired the Warri/Uvwie and Special Area Development Agency.
Bishop Mike Oyemiren, preaching on “The Marketplace and Its Legacy,” compared life to a marketplace from which everyone eventually returns home. “Nobody visits the market and does not return home,” he said, describing Otumara as a man who completed his earthly race and left a legacy of service, leadership and positive impact. APC chairman Solomon Arenyeka called Otumara kind, humble and God-fearing, saying he left “indelible footprints on the sands of time.” Itsekiri leaders and relatives had earlier gathered at Otumara’s residence for a service of songs.
Indelible footprints on the sands of time
About this summary
Originally published by ThisDay in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.
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