Sen. Nwoko Mourns as Deputy Gov, Other Dignitaries Bid Late Opia Farewell

It was a sober moment for Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, as dignitaries gathered over the weekend to bid late Joshua Opia, a grassroots politician, security expert and philanthropist farewell.

Opia, who passed away at the age of 48, was a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He served as Director of Security Services in Senator Nwoko’s 2023 senatorial campaign organisation and later,Executive Assistant to the Senator on Security and Niger Delta Affairs (NDDC).

He was also a Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Political Matters to the Delta State Governor.

Speaking during a condolence visit to the Opia family shortly after his interment in Kwale, Senator Nwoko, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Michael, Nwoko described the late Opia as “a dedicated, focused, resourceful and disciplined young man.”

The senator noted that Opia’s passing was a profound personal loss, stating that he “served with uncommon dedication and unwavering loyalty and discharged his responsibilities with a high sense of purpose and decorum”.

He further described the late Opia as a committed advocate of peace, security and development, noting his significant contributions to the Niger Delta struggle for equity and inclusion in the oil-rich but long-marginalised region.

While pledging continued support to the family, especially the widow, Mrs. Ozioma Opia, and the children, Senator Nwoko prayed for the peaceful repose of Opia’s soul and divine strength for the family to bear the irreparable loss.

The funeral ceremony, held in Kwale, was attended by top government officials and political leaders, including the Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme; Executive Chairman of Ndokwa West Local Government, Chief Obi Nzete; APC Chairman, Ndokwa West LGA, Hon. Greg Onah; former member of the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Azuka Azaka; Secretary, 1st Phase Presidential Amnesty Programme, Hon. Pastor Nature Kieghe; and former Chairman ,Isiala Ngwa North Local Government, Abia State, Hon. Sir Ugoala, among others.