Final Rites for a Legend: Bayelsa Bids Farewell to Ijaw Icon, Chief Mitin, at 76
Over the weekend, Rt. Hon. (Chief) Frederick Yeitiemone Agbedi, PhD, Member representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency, suspended all official engagements to honour the late Chief Mitin Tamaraumieyefa at his final burial rites in Ndoro community, Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Chief Mitin, who passed away at the age of 76, was widely regarded as a towering figure in Bayelsa’s political and cultural landscape. Revered across the Ijaw nation for his wisdom, influence, and steadfast commitment to community advancement, he leaves behind a legacy distinguished by integrity, ideological clarity, and unwavering dedication to causes he championed.
A multifaceted statesman, Chief Mitin was celebrated as a committed traditionalist, social reformer, historian, gifted orator, and masterful storyteller. His political insight and strategic counsel earned him immense respect, with many acknowledging that his endorsement often proved decisive in political contests.
Beyond his public life, he was a devoted patriarch, survived by five wives and 34 children, all of whom he ensured received university education—reflecting his firm belief in the transformative power of learning.
In his tribute, Rt. Hon. Agbedi described the deceased as a dependable and resolute politician who stood firmly by his convictions. He praised him as a bridge-builder, peacemaker, and tireless advocate of justice, noting that his life exemplified loyalty, courage, and commitment to the collective good.
The Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, also paid glowing tribute, describing the late elder as a father figure who championed education and fought steadfastly for just causes. He remarked that Chief Mitin mentored him closely, offering guidance that profoundly shaped his personal and political journey. “He consistently encouraged discipline, growth, and the pursuit of excellence,” Lokpobiri stated.
President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof. Benjamin Okaba, eulogised the late statesman as a custodian of Ijaw heritage whose cultural stewardship and community engagement earned him legendary status within the Ijaw nation.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Hon. Living Mitin, Member representing Ekeremor Constituency II in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, described his father as a philosopher grounded in wisdom, truth, and faith. He revealed that Chief Mitin drew inspiration from the teachings of Plato, harmonising classical philosophical ideals with Ijaw cultural values.
According to him, his father consistently warned against the pursuit of ill-gotten wealth, emphasising that success achieved through haste or unethical means inevitably leads to downfall. He taught that genuine prosperity is rooted in diligence, integrity, hard work, and divine grace.
Hon. Living Mitin expressed heartfelt appreciation to dignitaries and sympathisers who travelled from far and near to honour his father’s memory and stand with the family during their time of grief.
Among the notable personalities in attendance were Chief Godsday Orubebe, former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs; Rt. Hon. Chief Peremobowei Ebebi, former Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State; Rt. Hon. Michael Ogbere, Deputy Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly; Hon. Onniye Isaac, Chairman of Ekeremor Local Government Area; Hon. Chief Great Joshua Maciver of TANTITA Security; and Hon. Christopher Enai, among others.
The solemn ceremony was marked by heartfelt tributes and reflections, underscoring the enduring impact of Chief Mitin’s life—a legacy defined by leadership, mentorship, cultural pride, and unwavering commitment to the progress and unity of his people.
