Nigeria gave a final farewell to one of its most respected military leaders and statesmen over the weekend as Major-General Paul Ufuoma Omu (rtd.) was laid to rest in his hometown with full military honours.
Final Resting Place for a National Icon
The former Military Governor of the defunct South-Eastern State was buried in Igbide, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State on Saturday, November 30, 2025. The ceremony drew an impressive gathering of dignitaries from military, political, religious, and traditional establishments, reflecting Omu's extensive influence across Nigerian society.
General Omu, who passed away at the age of 84, was remembered as a rare breed of soldier-statesman whose life spanned critical periods in Nigeria's military and political development. His burial service took place at St. Andrew's Anglican Church in Igbide, where clerics led by the Archbishop of Bendel Province, Most Revd Cyril Odutemu, presided over the solemn rites.
Tributes from Nation's Leaders
During the funeral service, religious leaders praised the late general as a man who lived "a life rooted in integrity" and embodied the fading values of patriotism and public discipline. Archbishop Odutemu expressed concern about Nigeria's declining moral standards, describing Omu as "one of the rare Nigerians who believed the nation was truly worth dying for."
The political establishment showed strong support for the departed leader, with current Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his wife Tobore in attendance. Former Governors James Ibori and Ifeanyi Okowa with his wife Edith also paid their respects, alongside former Deputy Governor Benjamin Elue and Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas.
The military representation was equally significant, with Major-General Oluwafemi Williams representing the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu. Williams eulogized Omu as "an exceptionally well-informed senior officer" whose professional conduct set standards that the modern army continues to find challenging to replicate.
Military Farewell and Community Legacy
Following the church service, soldiers mounted a ceremonial guard and performed a slow march procession in honor of the departed general. The military conducted the symbolic folding and presentation of the national flag to Omu's family, followed by a 21-gun salute that echoed across Igbide community - the traditional final tribute reserved for officers of the highest standing.
For the Isoko people, the burial represented more than just saying goodbye to a distinguished son. Community leaders and clerics recalled Omu's ongoing philanthropy, mentorship of younger leaders, and commitment to Isoko development long after his retirement from active military service. Many described him as a stabilizing force whose counsel was frequently sought during times of uncertainty.
The President General of the Isoko Development Union (IDU), Prof. Chris Akpotu, led a substantial delegation to honor what many consider one of the finest products of the Isoko Nation. The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of a generation that successfully balanced national service with unwavering local loyalty.
