Okowa mourns renowned sociologist, Onigu Otite
By Nosa Akenzua, Asaba
Delta state Governor, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa, has expressed his grief over the passing of one of Nigeria’s renowned sociologists and anthropologists, Prof. Onigu Otite.
Gov. Okowa, in a message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu, extended his heartfelt condolences to the Otite family, the people of Okpara Inland in Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state, the Agbon Traditional Council as well as the Urhobo nation and the National Association of Sociologists and Anthropologists on the painful demise of the pioneer sociologist.
The governor affirmed that as an author, the late Otite exuded vibrancy, intelligence and innovation in his works as a social commentator, constantly in search of plausible answers and solutions to contemporary issues bedeviling the society.
Through his research, the governor declared that Otite was focused on ethnic conflicts and resolutions with particular interest on the Niger Delta ethnic groups where there were frequent communal clashes leading to the disruption of crude oil production and loss of both life and property.
He added that “he was key at the University of Ibadan where he pioneered the social science department as early as 1967 and introduced courses, such as the African social thought.
The governor encouraged all Nigerians, the literary community and lovers of art to honour Otite’s memory by imbibing the didactic message of his works. He prayed God to console all who mourn the departed academic.
