By Babalola Falobi (Ph.D)
Warri, Delta State

“When beggars die, there are no comets seen; The heavens themselves blaze forth the death of Princes” – Williams Shakespeare (Julius Caesar).

The former Deputy Governor of Delta State, and a distinguished Alumnus of the University of Lagos, Prof. Amos Utuama SAN, has been laid to rest in his hometown, Otu-Jeremi, near Ughelli, in Delta State, in a “blaze of glory.”

The 2-day event commenced with a Service of Songs at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, Otu-Jeremi on Tuesday, 29th April, 2025.

Dignitaries present at that occasion included the former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, under whom the late Prof Utuama served as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice for 8 years (1998-2007), after which he became Deputy Governor to Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan (2007-2015). The present Governor of Delta State, Elder. Sheriff Oborevwori, his wife, and a host of Commissioners and members of the Federal and State Legislatures were also in attendance. Senior members of the Bench and Bar, from all over the country, captains of industry, Traditional Rulers and High Chiefs, as well as several Unilag Alumni members, were also present.

The Church service was held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at the Warri Cathedral, after which his burial took place, privately, at his residence at Otu-Jeremi. The entertainment of dignitaries and guests took place at the Otu-Jeremi Primary School ground, at which the Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Hon Dennis Guwor, several Commissioners and Honourable members of the Legislature, members of the Bench and Bar, several Chiefs, as well as a full compliment of Unilag Alumni members from both the Warri and Asaba branches, were visible present.

The Immediate Past Chairman of the Warri Circle, Dr. Babalola Falobi, represented the National President (Worldwide), Engr. Ifeoluwa Oyedele, FAEng, while the new Chairman of Warri Circle, Deacon Tony Onakpoma, and the Chairman of Asaba Branch, Barr. Emmanuel Diei, and numerous Alumni members, were also present at the event. The Unilag Alumni Association was well represented and properly recognised at the event.

The late Prof. Amos Utuama died a few months ago, at the age of 77 years. May his soul rest in peace.