Pauline Onyibe 
Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri has extolled the virtues of King Christian Atani Okpofaa Otobotekere, the late Amananaowei (king) of the Tombia community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of the state.
Governor Diri who spoke during the monarch’s funeral service at Our Saviour’s Anglican Church, Tombia- Ekpetiama at the weekend, said he not only impacted his family, but his community, clan, state, and the country.
A statement by the governor’s Chief Press
Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, quoted him as saying that life was so ephemeral that “98 years of our father looked like a few years ago.”
“If it were our wish, we would have loved this poet, author, traditional ruler, and father to stay longer. But we are just mortals.
“We celebrate the life and times of a man who has not only impacted his family but also his community, clan, state, and this country.
“In all his experiences in life and work, he was a man of character and integrity.
“So, for the time we have here on earth, let us encourage that bond of unity and love that has brought us together as humans and as a state.
“On behalf of the government and people of Bayelsa State, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the Otobotekere family, the Tombia community, and the Ekpetiama Kingdom. We pray God to give you the fortitude to bear this loss.”
Dignitaries at the funeral included an acting chief judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Matilda Ayemieye, former deputy governors of the state, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (Rtd) and Werinipre Seibarugu among others.
