Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, his Imo State counterpart, Senator Hope Uzodimma, and Member Representing Warri Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Chief Thomas Ereyitomi JP, have commiserated with Delta State Governor, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa, on the death of his father, Sir Arthur Okorie Okowa, aged 88 years.

Dr Fayemi in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, said his thought and prayers were with Governor Okowa and family during this grieving period, adding that despite the fact that the late Chief Okowa lived to a ripe age, he would still be missed by the family.

The Ekiti Governor urged Governor Okowa and the entire family to be comforted by the fact their late father lived well and impacted positively on the lives of the people as an outstanding teacher and community leader of repute.

He said the late Sir Okowa moulded the destinies of many young people who have now become great men and women in their areas of endeavours and was a rallying point for the family and the community as a high chief of Owa Kingdom in Delta State.

Dr Fayemi said the late Senior Okowa was renowned for his kindness, forthrightness and selfless service to the people, qualities which his son, Governor Okowa, continues demonstrate in his private and public life.

“I, on behalf of my family, the government and good people of Ekiti State commiserate with my brother, Governor Okowa. Though papa lived to a ripe age of 88 years, losing one’s father, especially one who is very supportive could be quite challenging.

“I urge my brother, Governor Okowa and the entire family to be comforted by Papa’s good works, good name and the legacy of selfless service he left behind. May the good Lord grant Papa eternal rest and the family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Fayemi said.

Governor Uzodimma, on his part, said that news of the passing of Sir Okowa at this time was sad but was thankful to God for the impactful life the governor’s father led.

He noted that Pa Okowa’s legacies are not only seen in the service he rendered to his community, state and nation, but in the quality of training he gave to his children for which Governor Okowa is a testimony.

Uzodimma said the fact that Pa Okowa lived to a ripe age of 88 bears witness to the grace of God upon him and his relationship with his creator.

He urged Governor Okowa, his siblings and the entire people of Delta State to be consoled by the fact that Pa Okowa died a fulfilled man.

He also encouraged Governor Okowa to draw strength from the life and times of his late father epitomised in the service to humanity.

Uzodimma also prayed God, on his behalf and the good people of Imo State, to grant Pa Okowa’s soul a peaceful repose.

Also condoling Governor Okowa and his family, Rep Ereyitomi described Sir Arthur Okowa as a true politician “whose political prowess his son the governor took over and has displayed sagacity in the administration of the state.” He added that late Pa Okowa lived a good life and left good legacies behind.