From Okwe Obi, Abuja
The High Commissioner of The Gambia to Nigeria, Amb Muhammadu Musa, has expressed sadness over the demise of Barr Onome Ewhrudjakpor Obuotor.
Obuotor, who died in November, 25, 2024 and was laid to rest, in December, was the Parliamentary Counsel in The Gambia, under the Nigeria -Gambia bilateral agreement, where he served for 16 year.
Musa, in a statement yesterday, stated this during the funeral service held in honour of Obuotor at the Diocese of Abuja (Anglican Communion) The Basilica of Grace, Gudu, Abuja.
The envoy pointed out that the demise of Obuotor had created a vacuum, that will be difficult to fill by both countries.
He declared that Barr Onome’s contributions impacted the legal systems of both nations and that he would be seriously missed a lot.
The Ven. Oluwaseun Owoeye, Vicar/Supervising Priest Anglican Communion, The Basilica of Grace, Gudu Abuja, on his part, described Onome as a unique, outstanding family man who put his family first in all he did and a thorough career man who will be missed by his immediate family, colleagues and both nations.
He declared that the indigene of Ugheli North Local Government Area of Delta State, “ran a good race and finished strong, it’s left for us the living to emulate his life style, commitment to the things of God, Love for family, dedication to work and service to humanity.”
The family said: “He served as a Principal Legal Officer with Nigeria’s Anti – Corruption Commission, he prosecuted corruption cases, contributed to international conventions, and participated in the drafting of protocols for the African Union and the United Nations.
“Barr Obuotor, later served as Chief State Counsel in the Legal Drafting Department of Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Justice, shaping Laws passed by the National Assembly and drafting Statutory instruments.
“Later, in 2008, Barr Obuotor, transitioned to international service under the Nigeria – Gambia Bilateral Agreement. As a Technical Assistant and later Parliamentary Counsel in The Gambia, he mentored legal Officers, drafted bills, and played a pivotal role in legislative processes. He worked there for 16 years until his demise.
“Barr Onome was a phenomenal pillar of love and strength to his family. He was a devoted husband to Yetunde Obabunmi Obuotor and an excellent Father to his three children, Barrister Omonigho Obuotor, Dr Aghogho Obuotor and Ejiroghene Obuotor.
“His family was his pride and joy and he balanced his tasking career with unwavering love and support for them.
“He shared a deep bond with his siblings, who remember his kindness, wisdom, and unyielding dedication to family values. Serving as a role model showing compassion to all. His Service to humanity was second to none.
“His demise has left a profound void, in the two nations, his family and colleagues, yet his legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the institutions he helped shape, and the family he cherished.
“Barr Onome’s journey remains a beacon of hope and an enduring source of inspiration to all who knew him, he is survived by wife, three children, several siblings, colleagues, Nigeria, The Gambia and many to mourn him.”