Delta State and Nigeria mourn the loss of Professor Amos Agbe Utuama, SAN, a legal icon, former Deputy Governor of Delta State, and a steadfast champion of integrity, resilience, and dedicated public service.
The demise of Prof. Utuama brings an era to a close in Delta State, evoking widespread sorrow among those who admired his outstanding character, intellectual prowess, and community development endeavors.
Early Life and Academic Excellence
Born in Delta State, Prof. Utuama’s roots and early experiences instilled in him the values of hard work, humility, and service. These qualities would later define his professional and public life. He pursued a career in law, excelling academically and laying the foundation for what would become a celebrated legal career.
As an academic star he rose to prominence, becoming a respected law professor, an icon whose teachings influenced countless students and future leaders. His intellectual contributions to Nigeria’s legal field Particularly in the University of Lagos where he was a lecturer, set a benchmark of excellence, and he was revered for his scholarly rigor and dedication to ethics of academic discipline.
A Distinguished Legal Career
Prof. Utuama’s rise in the legal field was marked by his attainment of the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), a recognition of his expertise, integrity, and contributions to Nigeria’s judicial system. Known for his meticulous approach to law and commitment to justice, he defended human rights and upheld the rule of law.
His legal career was more than a personal journey; it was a mission to enhance the legal profession and inspire the next generation of Nigerian lawyers to uphold justice and fairness. I have information on good ground that he was one of the best in Land law from the inner circle of the temple of justice.
Once I was opportune to watch him leading a group of young lawyers as a silk to defend PDP the Party to which he was very loyal at the High Court, at our headquarters Otughwievwen. All through the process of court l saw humility personified in him. Everything about him from the beginning to the end was perfect. Even the judge was glad for the opportunity of presiding when the calibre of a personality like His Excellency,Prof Amos Utuama was in court to argue a case before him.
In 2007, Prof. Utuama answered the call to serve in public office as Deputy Governor of Delta State under Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan. For eight years, he played a crucial role in shaping state policies, contributing his wealth of knowledge and experience to drive development and foster stability in the region. His commitment to promoting good governance was evident as he championed initiatives to improve infrastructure, health, education, and economic opportunities for Deltans. Working closely with other leaders, Prof. Utuama’s influence was instrumental in implementing policies that impacted many communities positively.
His tenure was marked by a balanced approach to state issues, which helped to bridge gaps between different ethnic groups, fostering unity in a diverse Delta State. His leadership style combined firm principles with compassion, and he was known for his openness to diverse viewpoints, always striving for solutions that reflected the interests of the people.. He was believed in informed circle to be the most loyal Deputy Governor in their era.
An Advocate for Delta State’s Development
Even after his tenure as Deputy Governor, Prof. Utuama continued to advocate for Delta State. He was actively involved in initiatives that promoted peace, prosperity, and progress, believing that Delta’s strength lay in the unity and empowerment of its people. His efforts extended into areas such as youth empowerment, justice reform, and community development, where he remained a guiding light for various programs and projects aimed at creating sustainable impact.
Legacy of Integrity and Dedication
Prof. Utuama’s life was a testament to integrity—a rare quality that he did not only exemplified but also expected from those around him. He remained steadfast in his principles, earning the respect and admiration of his peers, students, and constituents. Those who knew him speak of his honesty, his quiet strength, and his ability to lead with a humility that is rarely found among public figures. Prof. Utuama’s dedication was not confined to his roles in government or academia; it was woven into every interaction he had, making his influence profound and lasting.
His passing has left a profound gap, not only in the lives of his family but also in the state he served so diligently. Yet, his legacy endures in the hearts of Deltans and in the countless individuals he inspired throughout his career. Delta State is a better place today because of Prof. Utuama’s unwavering dedication to justice, education, and public service.
A Lasting Influence
In remembering Prof. Utuama, Delta State honours more than just a former Deputy Governor or an esteemed lawyer. It honours a man who dedicated his life to improving the lives of others, a scholar who raised the bar in legal education, and a public servant whose every action was guided by a deep sense of duty and integrity. His legacy will continue to shape Delta State’s future, inspiring future leaders to serve with the same commitment and humility that defined his life.
As the state mourns this great loss, it also celebrates a legacy that will remain a beacon for generations to come. Prof. Utuama’s life was one of purpose, and his impact is a lasting reminder of the difference one person can make through a life lived with integrity and service.
Agbala good night ,seventy seven gun salute for you.
Written by
Comrade Wilson Macaulay. Daily independent Newspaper Correspondent and General Secretary of Socioeconomic Network For Good Governance aka SONGG Delta State Chapter. Anchor of The Column: The Prism of The Ruled 08030886420
