The remains of the late Pa George Sunday Ogomegbunem Odum were laid to rest in his hometown, Onicha-Ugbo, in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State.
Pa Odum, father of Sir Andrew Osemedua Odum, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), was buried on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, following a solemn Requiem Mass at All Saints Catholic Church, Onicha-Ugbo. The service was officiated by the Bishop of the Issele-Uku Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Odogwu Elue, alongside several other priests.
The funeral drew a distinguished gathering of dignitaries, including the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori; his predecessor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, and his wife, Dame Edith Okowa. Also in attendance were several Justices and Judges of both the federal and state courts, the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, and the Chief Judge of Delta State, Hon. Justice Theresa Diai.
Other prominent attendees included the immediate past Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu; the Member representing Ika Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Victor Nwokolo; members of the State House of Assembly; members of the State Executive Council; and the Executive Chairman of Aniocha North Local Government, Hon. Emmanuel Bazim Chinye.
In his homily, Bishop Elue paid glowing tribute to the late Pa Odum, describing him as a remarkable man who devoted his life to raising and investing in his children. He emphasized the importance of strong moral upbringing and parental guidance, reminding parents that the lasting success of their children is a reflection of their own legacy and values.
The Bishop commended the Odum family for upholding their father’s name and virtues, praying that the soul of Pa Odum, and those of all the faithful departed, may rest in peace. He urged the family to find comfort in the enduring legacy and cherished memories their father left behind.
Delivering a moving tribute, Sir Andrew Osemedua Odum (SAN) described his late father as a man of integrity and deep humanity — one who lived by the virtues of dignity, generosity, sincerity, and kindness.
Sir Andrew Osemedua Odum, SAN, described his late father as a proud descendant of the great Odum lineage — warriors who once defended the Onicha-Ugbo community, particularly the Aniakwu area, from powerful invaders from Ika. He recalled that his ancestor relocated to Aniakwu to fulfill this mission, earning the revered title Odum Eze-Aniakwu, meaning “King of Aniakwu.”
Andrew remembered his father as a diligent and hardworking man who embraced his humble beginnings and carried out his duties with honesty and commitment. Known for his humility and respect for others, Pa Odum always greeted people first, earning the affectionate nickname “Daluunu.”
He was also celebrated for his generosity and compassion, often inviting anyone nearby to share his meals — a gesture through which he taught his children that kindness and generosity make food, and life, abundant for all. According to Andrew, his father valued sincerity, despised falsehood, and consistently urged his children to uphold truth above all else.
Pa Odum was known for his punctuality, genuine love for people, and his caring nature. Above all, he deeply loved and trusted God, giving Him glory for every aspect of his life. Andrew prayed to embody his father’s humility and to carry forward his noble legacy by God’s grace.
Delivering his tribute on behalf of the State Government, Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, SAN, described the late Pa Odum as an extraordinary man who lived a long, inspiring life. He said that reaching the age of 99 was a reflection of divine grace and blessings upon him and his family.
The Governor commended Pa Odum’s grit, devotion to family, and unwavering faith, noting that these virtues set him apart from his peers. He encouraged Sir Andrew Odum and the entire family to emulate his qualities of hard work, courage, and steadfastness — describing this as the best way to honor his memory. He prayed that God grant Pa Odum eternal rest and comfort the family.
In his condolence message, former Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, described Pa Odum’s passing as “the close of an era,” but also a celebration of a life filled with dignity, wisdom, and service to God and humanity. He noted that Pa Odum’s 99 years on earth were a testament to God’s faithfulness and a reflection of the integrity and honor that defined his life.
On behalf of his family, Senator Okowa offered heartfelt condolences to Sir Andrew Odum and his siblings, praying for divine strength and consolation, and for their father’s soul to find eternal peace.
Also speaking, the Chief Judge of Delta State, Hon. Justice Theresa Diai, said that although Pa Odum’s passing was a great loss, his legacy clearly lives on through his children — especially through the distinguished career of Sir Andrew Odum, SAN. She urged the family to preserve their father’s values and cherish the memories he left behind, praying for God to give them fortitude during this difficult time.
In his own message, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu described Pa Odum as a true patriarch and a shining example of integrity and virtue. He said the late elder’s life was marked by devotion to faith, family, and community, and that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations. Elumelu offered condolences to the Odum family and prayed for God’s comfort and for Pa Odum’s soul to rest peacefully.
Similarly, the Executive Chairman of Aniocha North Local Government, Hon. Emmanuel Chinye, praised Pa Odum as a man of exemplary character who lived a life of humility, service, love, and truth. Speaking on behalf of the people and government of Aniocha North, he extended deep sympathies to the Odum family and prayed that God grant Pa Odum eternal rest and console his loved ones.
Tributes also poured in from members of the Bench and Bar across Nigeria, reflecting the far-reaching influence of the Odum family.
The solemn Requiem Mass was graced by the combined choir of the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku, whose sacred hymns and liturgical music created a reverent atmosphere throughout the Eucharistic celebration.
After the church service, guests were hosted to a grand reception featuring sumptuous meals, fine drinks, and lively fellowship — a fitting tribute to a man whose life was defined by generosity, love, and faith.
