The Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Maj-Gen. Barry Ndiomu (rtd) has described the death of prominent monarch, King Charles Ayemi-Botu, as a big loss to the Niger Delta.
He said King Ayemi-Botu, who is the Paramount Ruler of Seimbiri Kingdom in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, was a lover of peace and was also committed to the development of the Niger Delta region.
Speaking during a condolence visit to the family of the departed traditional ruler in Warri, Delta State, Ndiomu said he received the news of his death with great shock and sadness.
According to him, since he assumed office as the Interim Administrator of the PAP, King Ayemi-Botu had been a pillar of support, offering very useful advice that has helped in his approach to some issues.
Ndiomu who regretted that King Ayemi-Botu left at a time he was mostly needed, however said he would be remembered for his good works, particularly in his native Seimbiri Kingdom, where he ruled for an eventful 29 years.
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While urging the family to take solace in God, he also tasked them to sustain his legacies, assuring that the PAP under him will support in any way it can during the funeral activities.
“It is a very sad moment for us all. When I got the news, I was very pained because of how close I was to him. He was a very honest man, outspoken and courageous. He offered very insightful advice each time we had a conversation.
“He was deeply committed to the peace and development of the region. It is very unfortunate that he had to leave at the time he did. We are here to offer our condolences to you (the widow) and the children, and indeed the entire family. We assure you of our support during this period.
“Be strong and take solace in the fact that he was a good man. And it is important that you sustain his legacies, “Ndiomu added.
King Ayemi-Botu who died on October 5, 2023 at the age of 75, ascended the throne on April 4, 1995 when he was presented with the Staff of Office by the then Military Administrator of Delta State, Group Captain Ibrahim Kefas after being crowned in April 2,1994 in line with the customs and tradition of Seimbiri Kingdom.
