Opuoru pays condolence visit to Otumara family, describes late politician as his political godfather

Former member of the Delta State House of Assembly and Executive Assistant on Environment to the Delta State Governor, Chief (Hon.) Matthew Poko Opuoru, has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Obarisuwa of Warri Kingdom, Chief (Dr.) Sisanmi Joseph Otumara, describing him as his “political godfather and leader” who contributed immensely to his political achievements.

The visit took place at the late Otumara’s residence in Ugbuwangue, Warri South Local Government Area, in the presence of Mr. Gbubemi Otumara and other family members.

Opuoru, who is also the Eni of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom in Warri, said the late politician played a defining role in shaping his political career through mentorship and guidance, particularly in helping him overcome his hot temper. “The impact he created in affecting all of us is unbelievable. He demonstrated extreme knowledge in guiding all of us, especially myself,” he said, recalling how Otumara repeatedly urged him to remain calm instead of reacting impulsively, assuring him that “whatever you are looking for, if you work towards it, you will get it.”

Reflecting on his political journey, Opuoru attributed many of his accomplishments to God’s grace working through Otumara. “Truly, most of the things that I have attained politically, I attained it through God's grace because He always sends His angels in the likes of a human being,” he said. He added that the late politician’s support helped him become Special Assistant, Senior Special Assistant, Commissioner, member of the Delta State House of Assembly and Special Adviser to the Governor, describing Otumara as “the only Commissioner we knew” and “the only leader we knew.”

He expressed gratitude to the deceased and his family for the role they played in his life and pledged to participate fully in the burial activities. “Officially, I just want to condole with the family. Whatever comes with the burial, we will participate,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Dr. Andrew Megbele thanked Opuoru and his entourage for the visit, describing it as remarkable. “Your coming here is remarkable. You are one of the few that has been here and you expressed so much emotions on your condolence visit,” he said, before outlining the burial programme, including a service of songs on September 4, a funeral service, interment and reception at Yonwuren College, Ugbuwangue, on September 5, and cultural dances from 12 p.m. on September 6.

Megbele described the late Otumara as a “great man” whose death affected everyone who encountered him, adding that “he died prematurely.” He noted that Otumara served three terms as Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council, was Commissioner for Health and Commissioner for Housing in Delta State, and later chaired the Warri-Uvwie and Environs Development Agency (WUEDA).

Chief (Dr.) Sisanmi Joseph Otumara died on June 12, 2026, at the age of 65 after a brief illness. Born in Warri on December 16, 1960, he was a trained medical doctor, seasoned politician, accomplished administrator and respected grassroots leader whose public service spanned local government administration, the Delta State Executive Council and other key leadership positions.