Notable NAF Pilot Officer, Air Commodore DJ Otaru Rtd Dies in Abuja.

A revered Nigerian Airforce Pilot, Retired Air Commodore DJ Otaru, who flew many transport/combat delivery missions both incountry and abroad, has died in Abuja.

Air Commodore Otaru’s death was confirmed by the deceased’s brother Wole and Hajiya Hauwa Otaru, the Elder sister.

The late senior officer who hailed from Edo State reportedly died some minutes after 12 noon on Saturday 27 July 2024 at his home in Abuja.

Air Commodore Sani Zakari retired in a statement said “the corpse has been taken to NAF Hospital Abuja pending family decisions on the funeral”.

Air Commodore Otaru (NAF/803) joined the Service from Nigeria Military School, Zaria as a Boy Soldier. From NMS, he continued to NDA as a member of 17th Regular.

“After passing out from NDA, he was trained as a pilot and measured in transport.

“He flew several aircraft including the biggest NAF bird the C 130.

“He was also an Instructor on Bulldog aircraft at 301 Primary Flying School. He was a product of National War College Course 11 so was an fwc (Fellow of the War College).

“The Senior Officer who Commanded NAF Base Yola and retired in January 2009, is survived by 5 children.

“His other siblings include; Elder sister Hajiya Hauwa in Abuja, younger brothers Aliyu (in Lagos) & Wole (in transit at Niger).

“Otaru was socialy active and a member of fellowships as AANDEC, Meet & Greet @ Abuja, Rtd NAF Officers forum and the One Star Veterans Association.

“A socially active Jazz lover, he played Saxophone quite well. He also became very active in the Catholic Church.

“He was a co-parishioner at Our Lady Queen of Nigeria and at 12 Apostles in Central Area.

“He was also in the burial support groups of both Air Commodore FR Obiuwevbi and that of Onyemua’s daughter. He frequents the NDC Officers’ Mess as well

“The Veteran groups will miss the Air Officer greatly. May God comfort the family.”