Delta Governor, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has expressed sadness at the passing of Mrs Omatsola Williams.

Williams, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Community Development in Okowa’s first term, reportedly died on Sunday night in Benin City, Edo, after a brief illness.

In a statement on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, the governor commiserated with the people of Warri North Local Government Area and the Itsekiri nation, on the demise of the renowned politician and founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta.

According to him, the deceased was a thoroughbred politician who had remained relevant by successfully serving in every administration in our state since 1999.

He said: "On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of a great woman and one of the most consistent female politicians, Rev. Mrs Omatsola Williams, who passed on in Benin City on Sunday.

“The news of her death came to me as a great shock as she wasn't reported ill before her demise.

"She was a great politician, who distinguished herself in the service of the state in several capacities she was appointed to serve.

"As a member of the state‘s Executive Council in our first term, Mrs Williams demonstrated commitment to the unity and development of the state and served diligently.

"For her diligence and consistency, she was always entrusted with more tasks and that ensured her being an integral part of all the administrations in the state since 1999.

"Until her death, she was the member representing Delta South Senatorial District on the board of Delta State Sports Commission."

Okowa regretted that the deceased former cabinet member passed when her services were needed more, adding that the state government and the people would miss her sorely.

He prayed God to accept her soul and grant fortitude to the family and friends she left to bear the loss.

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