Ruth NWORIE
Governor of Bayelsa state, Douye Diri has paid a tribute to the late Chief Tamaraumieyefa Mitin, describing him as a proud custodian and worthy ambassador of the Ijaw cultural heritage.
The governor spoke on Tuesday during a service of songs held in honour of the late regent at the Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall in Yenagoa.
Diri said the former Regent of Oporomor Kingdom, which spans communities in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa and parts of neighbouring Delta State, devoted his life to promoting unity and preserving the traditions of the Ijaw ethnic nationality.
In his tribute, the governor recalled Mitin’s active role in advancing the Ijaw language, particularly during the administration of former Governor Seriake Dickson, when he served as one of the focal persons engaged to revitalise the language on the state-owned Radio Bayelsa.
According to him, Mitin’s death was not only a loss to Bayelsa but also a personal one, as he was a close friend and confidant who worked tirelessly to ensure that Ijaw culture and tradition did not fade into extinction.
“Chief Mitin was someone who loved the Ijaw ethnic nationality without reservation. He loved his community, Ndoro, his local government and clan,” Diri said.
He noted that although the deceased did not have the benefit of tertiary education, he demonstrated wisdom and foresight by ensuring his children attained higher education.
The governor urged members of the Mitin family to remain united and uphold the values their patriarch stood for.
“I advise the wives, children and the entire Mitin family to remain united regardless of your maternal backgrounds. There is always strength in unity and do not allow anything to set you apart,” he added.
On behalf of the government and people of the state, Diri extended condolences to the family, the Ndoro community and Ekeremor Local Government Area, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
In a separate tributes, former member of the House of Representatives for Burutu Federal Constituency, Hon. Frank Enekorogha, described the late regent as sociable and accommodating, noting that he related freely with people across age groups.
Similarly, Mr. Sardauna Orubiri said Mitin contributed significantly to the growth of Ndoro community through his involvement in business, politics and social engagements.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr. Famous Daunemugha said the vacuum created by Mitin’s demise would be difficult to fill, and expressed appreciation to the governor, government officials and sympathisers for their support.
Delivering an exhortation, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Religion, Rev. Godspower Asingba, urged the congregation to reflect on the kind of legacy they would leave behind and to emulate the exemplary life of the deceased.
Chief Mitin, who passed on June 30, 2025, at the age of 76, is survived by five wives and 34 children, including Living Mitin, member representing Ekeremor Constituency 2 in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly.
