By Eseoghene Emuke
An elder statesman and former military governor of South-Eastern State (now Cross River and Akwa Ibom States), General Paul Ufuoma Omu, is dead.
He was also a former president of the influential Isoko socio-cultural group, Isoko Development Union (IDU) between 2014 to 2015, and course mate to Ibrahim Babangida, Sani Bello and Garba Duba at the Nigeria Military Training College.
General Omu, who hailed from Igbide in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, died at the age of 84.
He died on Wednesday, April 29, 2025, according to a statement by the family announcing the passing of the military general.
The statement signed by the eldest son of the deceased, Oghenekome Ufuoma Omu, said their departed father lived a fulfilled life and served Nigeria with his best.
The statement read, “With gratitude to God for a life of distinguished service and accomplishments, the family of General Paul Ufuoma Omu (Rtd), of Igbide, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, announces his passing on April 29, 2025, at the age of 84.
“Maj-General Paul Ufuoma Omu was a family man, patriot, statesman, soldier, and community leader whose life was marked by unwavering commitment to the service of Nigeria and his beloved Isoko Nation.
“A distinguished career Military Officer, General Omu rose through the ranks of the Nigerian Army, serving with honor and distinction.
“He held various strategic command and administrative positions, including serving as Military Governor of the South-Eastern State (now Cross River and Akwa Ibom States) from July 1975 to July 1978. During his tenure, he initiated and implemented critical infrastructural and policy reforms that laid the foundation for the region’s growth.
“In 1985, Gen. Omu was appointed Commnader Command and Staff College and a member of the Armed Forces Ruling Council, the highest ruling body in Nigeria as at then.
“In the political landscape, General Omu played a key role in Nigeria’s transition to democracy. He was appointed Chairman of the Constitutional Conference Commission in 1994, helping shape the constitutional discourse that would influence Nigeria’s return to civil rule. His leadership, insight, and patriotism earned him national respect and admiration.
“In September 2009, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua appointed Gen. Omu Chairman of the 10-member Governing Board of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).
“Beyond his military and political service, General Omu remained deeply committed to developing his homeland, Isoko Nation.
“As President of the Isoko Development Union (IDU) between 2014 to 2015, he championed unity, education, and economic advancement, leaving behind a legacy of community empowerment and inclusive development. His tenure was marked by diplomacy, visionary leadership, and relentless advocacy for the rights and progress of the Isoko people.”
Meanwhile, the passage of General Omu has also thrown the people of Isoko into mourning with many indigenes taking to social media platforms to pay tributes to the former military governor.
Omu is survived by his wife, Senator Chief (Mrs) Stella Omu, six children, beloved siblings, numerous and grandchildren.
The statement noted that burial arrangements would be announced in due course.
