By Rosemary Okoduwa
The small town of Otuo in Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State was abuzz with excitement and pageantry on Saturday, June 21, 2025, as the family of the late High Chief Adewole Ohiozokhai Umakhihe bid farewell to their beloved patriarch in grand style. The funeral reception, held at Azama College, Otuo, was a testament to the chief’s enduring legacy and the impact he had on his community.
Born on April 6, 1941, High Chief Adewole Umakhihe was a man of unwavering commitment to duty, service, tradition, and love for his people. His life was marked by discipline, values, and a deep sense of responsibility, which he instilled in his 21 biological children, including Dr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, a retired Federal Permanent Secretary.
Chief Umakhihe’s career was marked by distinction and honor. He served in the Nigerian Army from 1968 to 1979, rising to the rank of Sergeant and earning respect for his service. After his military career, he returned to Otuo and continued to serve his community, becoming the Enigbeva of the Four Quarters of Iyeu-Otuo.
The funeral reception was attended by captains of industry, civil servants, and politicians from different political divides. Notable guests included former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Deputy Governor Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Blessing Sheriff Agbabaku, and several other dignitaries.
The celebration of life event was a vibrant display of cultural heritage, with traditional dances, musical performances, and social networking. The event was a fitting tribute to the late chief’s legacy and a testament to the enduring impact he had on his community.
As the people of Otuo bid farewell to their beloved chief, they remembered his good works, his commitment to duty, and his love for his people. The grand funeral was a fitting tribute to a life well-lived, and the legacy of High Chief Adewole Umakhihe will continue to inspire generations to come.
The funeral of High Chief Adewole Umakhihe was a grand affair that will be remembered for years to come. It was a testament to the enduring legacy of a man who lived a life of service, dedication, and love for his people.
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