Okara family, the Bayelsa State government as well as the literary world
over the demise of foremost poet and novelist, Pa Gabriel Imomotimi Okara,
who died at the age of 97.
In a message of condolence he personally signed, Dr. Jonathan described
the exit of the literary giant as a colossal loss to the Ijaw nation, the
country and the African literary community.
A statement by Mr. Ikechukwu Eze, his media adviser, noted that the former
President further extolled Pa Gabriel Okara as a great man of arts and
wit, whose legacies permeated the field of humanities and statesmanship.
It said: “The death of a loved one, no matter his age, brings grief to our
heart and tears in our eyes, but we must take solace in the fact that Pa.
Okara lived a long and glorious life.
“He was a pioneer voice in modern African literature, a consummate
journalist, a seasoned administrator and a statesman who lived a life
worthy of emulation.”
Dr. Jonathan also prayed that God will continue to bless members of the
Okara family, and grant them the fortitude to bear his exit.”