Ethiope East Legislators Pay Condolence Visit To Family Of Late Pioneer Chairman

By Faith Ebireri

The Legislative Arm of Ethiope East Local Government Area, led by the Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Emojeya Emmanuel, paid a solemn condolence visit on Tuesday, 9 December 2025, to the family of the late Hon. (Chief) A. Y. Esiekpe, the pioneer Chairman of Ethiope East Local Government.

The delegation, comprising councillors and principal officers, was received at the late Chief Esiekpe’s residence in Warri.

The family warmly welcomed the visitors, adhering to traditional protocols. A spokesperson for the family extended greetings, after which an elder introduced family members. Among those present was Hon. Okoro Jeck, the APC State Organising Secretary and a councillor in 1997.

Speaking on behalf of the councillors, Hon. Iggue Oghenero Odiri, Deputy Majority Leader, explained the purpose of the visit.

Rt. Hon. Emojeya Emmanuel addressed the family, stating “The 8th Assembly of the Ethiope East Legislative Arm is here today to pay a condolence visit to the family of the first democratically elected Executive Chairman of Ethiope East.”

He expressed profound grief and solidarity, offering words of encouragement and assuring the family of the Legislative Arm’s continued support.

A formal condolence letter, signed by the Clerk of the House, Comr. Alonu Sylvester C., conveying the lawmakers’ deep sorrow over the loss of the revered statesman, was presented to the eldest son. The family discussed proposed funeral arrangements and promised to keep the council informed.

Rt. Hon. Emojeya Emmanuel described the late Chief Esiekpe as “A quintessential gentleman, a bridge-builder, and a man whose leadership footprint remains indelible in the history of Ethiope East.”

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An elder of the family recounted Chief Esiekpe’s political achievements, noting that he had served as Chairman of the undivided Ethiope constituency before its separation into East and West, and later as the pioneer Chairman of Ethiope East Local Government Area.

The councillors extended heartfelt sympathies to Mrs A. Y. Esiekpe and the entire family, praying for divine strength and comfort during this difficult time.

They assured the bereaved that Chief Esiekpe’s legacy of integrity, dedicated service, and commitment to community development would continue to be honoured.

The visit concluded with prayers for the peaceful repose of the departed soul and for God’s grace upon the family.