By Tosan Edematie
Prominent Nigerians, family members, friends, and associates have expressed their sorrow over the passing of Olorogun (Hon.) Taleb Avwerosuo Tebite, the Executive Director of Projects at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Commission (DESOPADEC). The well-loved politician from Okpare, Olomu in Ughelli South LGA, Delta State, passed away on Monday, August 5, 2024. Reports indicate that he died in a Lagos hospital.
Olorogun Taleb Tebite, a Knight of the Anglican Church and a chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), was also a former Member representing Ughelli South Constituency at the Delta State House of Assembly.
The mourners, among others, took to social media to share their feelings about Tebite, fondly called “Take Over,” Aare, Uncle T, and Bros T.
Expressing his sadness, Senator (Barr.) Ovie Omo-Agege, CFR, Former Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate, wrote: “I received the news of the passing of Olorogun (Hon.) Taleb Tebite, Executive Director Project on the board of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC with shock, disbelief and sadness. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and political associates. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time of mourning and sadness. May the gentle soul of Olorogun (Hon.) Taleb Tebite and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God, rest in peace.”
Hon. Ken Pela, Delta State Labour Party Candidate in the 2023 Governorship Election, lamented, “Once again the fleeting nature of life is revealed. Rest in peace my dear friend and brother – Olorogun Taleb Tebite!!!”
Prominent US-based veteran entertainer and stand-up comedy guru, Dr. Jude Onakpoma, also mourned Tebite, stating, “Taleb…Why Why Why. You followed me all through my career from Uniben to Lagos to the United States. Our journeys to financial independence rose from Niteshift to Fiogret to Ogun State govt house. You were with me all the way at Orerokpe 1994 when I visited Nigeria from the United States. You visited my country home in Naugatuck- Connecticut USA. You were my biggest cheerleader. You touched so many lives. You will never be forgotten. Adieu my friend. Good night my brother. Farewell till we meet again. R.I.P. Olorogun Taleb Tebite.”
Legendary Nigerian singer John Odafe Asiemo, also known as ‘Daddy Showkey’ and an Ambassador of DESOPADEC, wrote: “It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I pen these words. Yesterday, our DESOPADEC family lost a true titan – Olorogun Taleb Tebite, our esteemed Executive Director of Projects. His sudden departure has left an immeasurable void in our hearts and in the fabric of our organization. Olorogun Tebite was not just a colleague; he was a visionary, a mentor, and a driving force behind the transformative projects that have reshaped our mandate areas. Olorogun Taleb’s passion for development was infectious, his dedication unwavering. He saw potential where others saw challenges, and his innovative spirit touched countless lives across Delta State. As we grapple with this shocking loss, we find solace in the legacy he leaves behind – a legacy of progress, compassion, and true commitment to our communities. May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may his vision continue to guide us as we carry forward his noble work. DESOPADEC and indeed all of Delta State will forever remember and honor Olorogun Taleb Tebite’s immense contributions. Adieu.”
Hon. Amah Agbajoh, former Chairman of PDP, Warri South Local Government Council, shared on his Facebook page: “Taleb, my dear brother and friend, I am pained to hear about your death and completely off balance. You were loved by everyone you had contact with and we will surely miss you but God knows the best. May your dear soul rest in peace. Amen.”
