“What manner of a man is Otive, many may not know, but one thing is sure, he is a man sent by God to give relief and opportunities to strangers and associates-struggling to survive life. This is evident in so many young people, whom he has recommended for opportunities without any condition attached to it”
By Mark Orgu, News/Comments, September 3, 2023
It was Nicolo Machivelli (1469-1527), in ‘The Prince’ that reminded us that while fate and fortunate characterize half of our lives, the other half will surely depend on the other.Today, Dr. Otive has joined a league of diamond jubilee as he celebrate 60 years today- a landmark journey on earth. So, he is now Sexagenarian.
Dr. Otive is a man great, full of ideas and compassionate to the core. Yes, he was not born rich but divine providence made him rich with knowledge, wisdom and contentment through the promises of God Almighty in the book of Deuteronomy 8: 18 (8:18), “But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he promised unto thy fathers, as it is this day”
The second fulfilment of God’s promise in Dr. Otive’s life is the gift of offspring, recorded in Deuteronomy 28:3 “He will bless you in the city and in the field. He will bless you and give you many children. He will bless your land and give you good crops”
This attest to the fact that, the man we celebrate today, his way pleases God, and so, he enjoys the glory and blessings attached to it hence a blessing to our generation.
However, working with Dr. Igbuzor, as a Chief of Staff to the Deputy Senate President, distinguished Senate Ovie Omo-Agege between 2019-2023 was memorable. This is because, as I reported to him in his office in the Senate chamber after my appointment as aide to the former, and having knowledge of my expertise in the media, he quickly asked” Do you want to go to the media unit of the Deputy Senate president’ I responded in affirmation, yes sir, that is my field. He then gave me a note to report to the Special Adviser on Media and publicity to the DSP, Mr. Yomi Odunuga, whom we worked harmoniously.
That was my journey through him to the media unity of the former Deputy Senate president. While there, we shared ideas together whenever I go to his office downstairs , and he became a father and guardian to me. For once, he never in any way rejected any of my request as long as it is within the confide of his authority. What manner of a man is Otive, many may not know, but one thing is sure, he is a man sent by God to give relief and opportunities to strangers and associates, struggling to survive life. This is evident in so many young people, whom he has recommended for opportunities without any condition attached to it. A man who has submitted himself as servant and made himself visible to all irrespective of age, affluent and power.
Today, the host of heaven, humanity celebrate you, as I remember one of the psalmists; “what marvel, the lord works for us, indeed, we were glad”. Therefore, rejoice and be glad for the Lord God has favoured you.
Dr. Otive Igbuzor is an activist, but his activism is geared on the principle of ideology and redemption, thereby focusing on how humanity can be free from the shackle of bad leadership, bad democratic process and corruption. Many may not know that Otive is a true democrat and politician, not just a pastor, who will rather throw in the towel in time of political bitterness and desperation. He will never participate in such, in fact, he may pull out because his name, and integrity is more important to him. I remember in one of the occasions he had to single handedly take me to see our boss (Omo-Agege) to present my book, “historiography of Orogun” where I also captured the achievement of the DSP, and his late father, Justice James Omo-Agege, and other prominent Orogun indigenes. This was after one of the powerful aides denied me access ( a badly omen in political offices) to see the DSP; even as an aide and even as he (Otive) already gave me a note to that effect-He had to take it upon himself . Dr. Otive hate injustice and pride but, will rather stand for what is right and just.
Truly, irrespective of his high profile standard and exposure, Otive still accords me the honour regularly : “ My editor’. A man of his words, who is ever willing to help others grow, and he will never be arrogant even in the mist of any provocation. Yes, I do not have the power to judge whether Otive has attained immortality on earth or not, but I know, that, it is on the account of our immense contributions to the promotion of humanity and services to God that we gain immortality after our journey here on earth.
As you mark 60 years today, it is my prayer that God Almighty will continue to use you as a shadow of his instrument and redemption to humanity, Amen. Happy birthday Sir.
Mark Orgu, Editor, Afrikanwatch Network, Lagos ( 08028592006)