Attorney, Administrator, Monarch
Opening Summary
Timiebi Roupa Okara was a distinguished British-trained lawyer, administrator, and traditional ruler from Bumoundi-Ekpetiama in Bayelsa State. Renowned for his legal excellence, deep knowledge of Northern Ijaw history, and unwavering commitment to the Anglican Communion, he rose to become the Amananaowei of Bumoundi-Ekpetiama. His life was marked by service to justice, community leadership, and steadfast Christian faith.
Birth and Parentage
Timiebi Roupa Okara was born on June 11, 1950, at Jos General Hospital in Northern Nigeria.
He was the son of Justice Robert Pappah Gbaingbain Okara, a distinguished jurist and former broadcaster with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in the 1940s, who later became a Judge of the High Court of Nigeria. His father hailed from Bumoundi-Ekpetiama and was a devout Anglican. He passed away in 1988 while still in active judicial service.
His mother, Mama Sabina Niagwan, hailed from Shendam in Plateau State. She was initially an auxiliary nurse before becoming a successful businesswoman. She tragically died in a motor accident in 1985.
Early Life and Education
Timiebi enjoyed a culturally diverse upbringing. He spent part of his early years in Jos with his maternal grandfather, Pa John Niagwan, an educationist and committed Catholic. He later moved to Bumoundi-Ekpetiama, where he lived with his paternal grandfather, Chief Samson Pappah Gbaingbain Okara, the Amananaowei of Bumoundi-Ekpetiama and a prominent agent of the United African Company (UAC).
He began his formal education at St. Mark’s Catholic School, Oron (now in Akwa Ibom State), and later attended Methodist Boys’ High School, Oron (1965–1967).
He completed his secondary education at Government Comprehensive Secondary School (GCSS), Borokiri, Port Harcourt (1968–1970), earning his West African School Certificate.
Driven by academic excellence, Timiebi proceeded to the United Kingdom for further studies. He attended Walbrook College, London (1972–1974) and later obtained a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from the University of Leeds in 1977.
In 1978, he was called to the English Bar at Gray’s Inn, and subsequently to the Nigerian Bar in 1980, marking the beginning of a distinguished legal career.
Legal Career and Professional Achievements
Timiebi Roupa Okara began his legal career in private practice, initially working under the chambers of Chief Nwobidike Nwonodi in Port Harcourt.
He later established his own law firm:
TJR Okara & Co.
24 Port Harcourt Johnson Street, Port Harcourt
He quickly earned a reputation as a brilliant and principled legal practitioner, known for defending justice and providing legal assistance to the poor and marginalized.
Professional Appointments
His competence and integrity earned him several high-level appointments, including:
- Member, Disciplinary Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (1998–2002)
- Member, Body of Benchers (1998–2003)
- Member, Election Petition Appeals Tribunal (1997)
- Member, Judicial Panel of Inquiry on Koluama and Akassa Crisis (2000)
- Member, Bayelsa State Judicial Service Commission (2000–2005)
- Chairman, Bayelsa State Local Government Election Tribunal (2006, 2010)
Public Service and Administrative Roles
Beyond legal practice, Timiebi contributed significantly to governance and public administration.
His roles included:
- Secretary, Niger Delta State Movement (1980)
- Chairman, Land Allocation Committee, Yenagoa LGA (1985–1987)
- Member, Board of Directors, Risonpalm Nigeria Limited (1987–1992)
- Chairman, Nigerian Red Cross Society, Bayelsa State Chapter (1996–2004)
- Member, Board of Directors, Bayelsa State Oil Company (2013–2015)
Traditional Leadership
Timiebi’s leadership extended into traditional authority.
- In 1982, he was honored with a chieftaincy title by the K-Dere community in Ogoni Kingdom
- In 1988, following the death of his father, he became Regent of Bumoundi-Ekpetiama
- In 1996, he was installed as the Amananaowei (paramount ruler) and recognized as a third-class monarch in Bayelsa State
As a monarch, he was known for fairness, wisdom, and compassion.
Christian Life and Faith
Timiebi Okara was a deeply committed Christian.
Initially baptized in the Roman Catholic Church, he later embraced Anglicanism and was confirmed in 1970 by Bishop E. T. Dimieari.
His service to the Anglican Church was extensive:
- Knighted as a Knight of St. Christopher (1995)
- Served as Diocesan Lay Reader
- Deputy Registrar, Diocese of Niger Delta
- Chancellor, Diocese of Niger Delta West (from 1999 until his death)
He was respected for his bold interpretation of church laws and doctrines and actively participated in synods and church governance.
Family and Personal Life
Timiebi married his lifelong friend, (Dame) Dr. Ebimie Okara (née Pulotua) of Lobia, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, in 1977.
She is a medical doctor and retired Permanent Secretary in Bayelsa State.
Their marriage was blessed with three children.
Beyond his immediate family, he mentored over 20 children and had more than 100 godchildren, reflecting his far-reaching influence and generosity.
Illness and Death
In 2013, Timiebi was diagnosed with colon cancer and sought medical treatment abroad.
Despite his illness, he remained hopeful and often reassured loved ones with the words:
“Don’t worry, I will come back.”
He maintained a strong belief in eternal life and the Christian promise of heaven.
On December 19, 2015, after insisting on being discharged from the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), he passed away peacefully at home at 3:30 PM, at the age of 65.
Legacy and Impact
Timiebi Roupa Okara is remembered as:
- A brilliant legal mind
- A compassionate leader
- A faithful servant of God
- A custodian of Northern Ijaw history
His life reflected integrity, courage, and service to humanity.
He lived by conviction and faith, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations.
Closing Reflection
“For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come…”
— Hebrews 13:14–16
