On Friday, December 20, 2024, the remains of Barrister Onome Ewhrudjakpor Obuotor, an international legal luminary, were laid to rest in Abuja amidst tributes from family, colleagues, and dignitaries. Barr. Obuotor, born on January 28, 1965, passed away on November 25, 2024. A native of Ughelli North Local Government Area in Delta State, he was celebrated for his immense contributions to legal practice both in Nigeria and The Gambia.
The funeral service, held at the Diocese of Abuja (Anglican Communion), The Basilica of Grace, Gudu, Abuja, saw the presence of notable figures, including Ambassador Muhammadu Musa, High Commissioner of The Gambia to Nigeria.
Ambassador Musa described Barr. Obuotor’s death as a significant loss to both nations, stating, “His contributions to the legal systems of Nigeria and The Gambia have created a legacy that will be difficult to replace.”
A Service of Songs, led by The Most Reverend Henry C. Ndukuba, Primate of All Nigeria and Bishop of Abuja, was conducted on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at the same venue. On the day of the funeral, a brief lying-in-state was held at Barr. Obuotor’s family home in Gwarimpa, Abuja, before the main service, which was officiated by The Ven. Oluwaseun Owoeye, Vicar and Supervising Priest. Barr. Obuotor was interred at Gudu Cemetery, followed by a reception in his honor.
In his homily, The Ven. Owoeye described Barr. Obuotor as “a remarkable family man, a dedicated professional, and a servant of humanity.” He encouraged the congregation to emulate Barr. Obuotor’s exemplary life of commitment to family, work, and faith.
Barr. Obuotor had an illustrious career, serving as Principal Legal Officer with Nigeria’s Anti-Corruption Commission and later as Chief State Counsel in the Legal Drafting Department of Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Justice. He transitioned to international service in 2008 under the Nigeria-Gambia Bilateral Agreement, where he served as a Parliamentary Counsel for 16 years, mentoring legal officers and shaping legislative processes in The Gambia.
He is survived by his wife, Yetunde Obabunmi Obuotor, three children—Barrister Omonigho Obuotor, Dr. Aghogho Obuotor, and Ejiroghene Obuotor and several siblings. His legacy remained a source of inspiration to his family, colleagues, and the legal communities of Nigeria and The Gambia.
