Final Homecoming of Late Gen. Paul Omu Begins in Abuja with Service of Songs

The final homecoming rites for the late Major General Paul Ufuoma Omu (Rtd.), OFR, began on Thursday, November 20, with a solemn Service of Songs held at the All Saints Anglican Church, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja.

The service drew dignitaries from across the country, reflecting the national stature and enduring legacy of the former military governor, elder statesman, and respected Isoko leader.

Among those in attendance were former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Alexander Ogomudia (Rtd.); Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas; Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko; Senator James Manager; President General of the Isoko Development Union (IDU), Professor Chris Akpotu; AIG Felix Ogbaudu (Rtd), Dr Ogaga Ifowodo; and wife of the deceased, Senator Stella Omu. Many other senior military officers, political leaders, community representatives, and clerics also graced the ceremony.

The late Gen. Omu, the Olodi of Igbide Kingdom and Othuke of Isoko Nation, was born on July 1, 1940, and passed on April 29, 2025, at the age of 84. His passing marked the end of an era for a man whose life was defined by discipline, patriotism, and service to nation and community.

In heartfelt tributes delivered during the service, speakers extolled Gen. Omu’s towering contributions to Nigeria’s military and political history. They described him as a courageous officer, a forthright administrator, and a man whose devotion to duty never waned.

“He lived an exemplary life, one defined by courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment to duty,” one speaker said, urging his family to take solace in a legacy built on honour and integrity.

Clerics led by the Most Rev. E. E. Akanya and Rt. Revd. Dr. O. O. Ajayi officiated the service, offering prayers for the repose of his soul and strength for the family he left behind.

Gen. Omu served as Military Governor of the then South-Eastern State—now Cross River and Akwa Ibom, from 1975 to 1978, where he championed reforms and infrastructural development.

He later served as a member of the Armed Forces Ruling Council and was once Commander of the Command and Staff College, playing pivotal roles in national governance and Nigeria’s transitions.

Beyond his military and political achievements, General Omu was a pillar of community development. As President General of the Isoko Development Union from 2014 to 2015, he advanced initiatives in unity, education, and empowerment. His leadership earned him reverence across Isoko land, where he held traditional titles.

Preparations for his final interment are underway, with a series of events lined up across Abuja, Asaba, Oleh, and Igbide. These include a commemoration service on Tuesday, November 25, at St. Philips Anglican Church, Asaba; a lecture and day of tributes on Thursday, November 27, at Isoko House, Oleh; and lying-in-state and service of songs in Isoko South on Friday, November 28.

The final burial rites will hold on Saturday, November 29, beginning with a lying-in-state at his residence, Ufuoma House, Igbide, followed by a funeral service at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Igbide. A thanksgiving service will round off the ceremonies on Sunday, November 30, at the same church.

General Paul Ufuoma Omu is remembered as a man of vision, diplomacy, and deep patriotism, an officer and gentleman whose legacy will continue to inspire generations within and beyond the Isoko Nation.