Oborevwori, Ibori Mourn as Former Deputy Governor, Utuama, Dies at 77
CHIGOZIE AMADI
Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and former Governor James Ibori yesterday sent condolences to the family of a former Deputy Governor of the state, Professor Amos Agbe Utuama (SAN).
Utuama reportedly died in Warri in the early hours yesterday after a protracted illness.
He was aged 77.
Oborevwori’s condolence was contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Sir Festus Ahon in Asaba.
The governor commiserated with the family, the Urhobo nation, the people of Ughelli South Local Government Area (LGA), and Otu-Jeremi community in particular, over the demise of Utuama.
He noted that the departed Utuama was a renowned law teacher and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), who excelled as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of the state from 1999 to 2007 and later as deputy governor of the state from 2007 to 2015.
According to the governor, the deceased was a world-class academic scholar whose teachings and research undertakings had contributed immensely to the Nigerian legal profession and jurisprudence.
He said: “On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of a gentleman, a scholar, and astute politician, Professor Amos Agbe Utuama (SAN) who passed on in Warri on Saturday (yesterday).
“I received the devastating news of his death with great shock. He was a gentleman politician, and scholar who distinguished himself in the service of his people, first, as Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General of the state and later as deputy governor of the state.
“Throughout his service to the state and country, Prof. Utuama demonstrated commitment to the unity and development of the state,” the statement said.
The governor prayed to God to accept the deceased’s soul and grant fortitude to the family and friends he left to bear the loss.
On his part, former Governor Ibori expressed deep respect and admiration for Utuama, whom he described as his humble, loyal, and esteemed Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.
“Professor Amos Agbe Utuama, my humble, loyal, and esteemed Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. You were my steadfast legal foundation, executing your duties with unwavering commitment. If it were within my power to halt death, I would have done so for you. Farewell, dear professor. May your pure soul rest in eternal peace,” Ibori said, highlighting Utuama’s dedication and professionalism throughout his career.
Governor Oborevwori had congratulated Utuama when he clocked 77 in June.
