Oporoza, the ancestral headquarters of Gbaramatu kingdom in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, was a beehive of activities at the weekend as the remains of Mrs Pinapina Otuaro, (Nee Omula), the mother of the immediate past Deputy Governor of the state, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro was buried.
The speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly (a son of the soil) was visibly moved by the outpouring of support and solidarity as the community gathered to celebrate the life of an extraordinary woman whom many fondly call ‘Nene’.
Mrs Otuaro, a mother of four who died at age eighty-eight, was interred on Saturday morning after the All-Night Vigil, which was characterized by musical entertainment and some other activities.
Top government officials, relatives, leaders of thoughts, friends, political associates, colleagues, classmates, and well-wishers, joined the immediate past Deputy Governor, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro (eldest of the children) and his siblings as well as grandchildren, to pay their respect to the departed matriarch.
They walked through the distant paths of several jetties in the riverine community of Oporoza to the classically decorated venue for the all-night event, as irresistible music rendition from the stable of an Ijaw-born music maestro, Ezonbi and his band, enveloped the community.
For the mourners, the atmosphere was somber, clad in solemn appearances, faces etched with grief as their beloved mother was interred.
Indeed, it was a moment of mixed emotions and feelings that brought together dignitaries from all walks of life across the state and beyond.
The Speaker of Delta State Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, said it was gratifying that the community came together to bid final farewell to a woman who had touched many lives.
In a statement made available to newsmen by his Chief Press Secretary, CPS, Nkem Nwaeke, Guwor said, “Today, we gather to celebrate the life of an extraordinary woman, the mother of our beloved immediate past Deputy Governor, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro.
“Her passing leaves a void in our lives, but her legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will continue to inspire us”.
The Speaker stated that as a son of the soil, and someone closely related to the bereaved family, he was grateful for the overwhelming support from personalities and groups within and outside Delta State.
Rt Hon Guwor said their presence was a testament to the respect and admiration they have for the Otuaro family, particularly the immediate past Deputy Governor, Dcn Kingsley Otuaro, the Oporoza community and the entire Gbaramatu kingdom.
He prayed to God to grant the soul of Mrs Otuaro rest and eternal peace.
