Oborevwori, Ibori, Omo-Agege mourn ex-Delta dep gov, Utuama

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor James Ibori, and ex-Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, have all paid respects to the late Prof. Amos Agbe Utuama (SAN), former deputy governor of Delta State, who passed away at the age of 77, as confirmed on Saturday.

In their individual statements, they expressed profound sorrow over Utuama’s death. He held the position of Delta’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice from 1999 to 2007 and served as deputy governor from 2007 to 2015.

Governor Oborevwori, through his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, extended condolences to Utuama’s family, the Urhobo community, Ughelli South Local Government, and the Otu-Jeremi region. He characterized Utuama as a distinguished law educator and Senior Advocate of Nigeria whose contributions greatly enhanced Nigerian law.

“On behalf of the people and government of Delta, I mourn the loss of a gentleman, scholar, and accomplished politician who served with honor,” he remarked. He further noted, “Throughout his tenure, Prof. Utuama was dedicated to the unity and progress of our state.”

Former Governor Ibori, under whom Utuama served as Attorney-General, described him as a “humble and loyal legal pillar” for his administration. Ibori expressed his personal grief, saying, “If I could stop death, I would have done so for you, dear Professor. May your noble soul find eternal rest.”

Senator Omo-Agege, in a statement from his Media Adviser, Mr. Sunny Areh, conveyed his sympathies to the Urhobo community, Delta State, and the broader Niger Delta region, highlighting that Utuama’s legacy would be lasting.

He commended Utuama’s commitment to justice and the rule of law, noting his pivotal role in solidifying federal stability during Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. Omo-Agege recalled Utuama’s key involvement in the legal efforts that secured 13 percent derivation payments for Niger Delta states, stating, “Joining Chief Ibori’s government as a respected law educator, Utuama played a crucial role in fostering stability and respect for the states during the early, vulnerable days of the Fourth Republic.”

He added, “I remember the critical legal battles initiated by Chief Ibori that led to the 13 percent derivation fund as mandated by the Constitution. Prof. Utuama’s expertise was instrumental in achieving victory for the Niger Delta states.

“Indeed, the Niger Delta, and not just Delta State, has lost a remarkable figure. His legacy will endure, and Nigeria was fortunate to benefit from his leadership at a time when it was most needed.”