Dr. Henry Omorogieva Akpata, father of popular former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mr. Olumide Akpata, will be buried in his home town in Benin on May 16, 2025.

According to burial details made available to CITY LAWYER, Service of Songs will be held for the departed elder statesman on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 4 pm, at Uyi Grand Marquee, 9 Aghayubini Street, off Adesuwa Girls Grammar School Road, GRA, Benin City.

This will be followed by Funeral Service on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 10 am at United Baptist Church, 45 Mission Road, Benin City after which the body will be interred.

Reception follows from 2 pm at Cathelea Convention Center, 2 Aiyanyo Omoigui Way, off 2nd Ugbor Road, GRA, Benin City.

Born on May 29, 1940, Dr. Akpata passed away on Januray 10, 2025, at the ripe old age of 84 years.

Following his passing, tributes have continued to pour in for the family. Writing on the dedicated memorial website for the departed, Mr. Tobenna Erojikwe, NBA presidential candidate and an ally of the former NBA President, stated: “I cannot count the number of times, in the last few years, that you said to me that you were at VGC visiting with your father. His care meant so much to you and you brought your usual meticulous attention to detail to bear on all that concerned him.

“We thank God for the graces that he granted your father, in his lifetime, to see you and your siblings achieve all the successes that you have achieved. Your father, Dr Henry Omorogieva Akpata, a German trained medical doctor
contributed immensely to the medical profession through his many years of very successful practice in Warri, Delta State and to humanity through his contributions to family and community development.

“Your father was so much more than a loving father to you, he was your mentor, teacher, friend and confidant. Your remarkable personality and achievements are a great testament to your father and the exemplary life that he led.”

On his part, a leading senior lawyer, Dr. Eyimofe Atatke SAN wrote: “We celebrate a life devoted to healing and compassion. Offering not just expertise but hope to those in need. We celebrate your impact to lives and the community. Rest in peace. May your journey to the bosom of the Lord be peaceful and filled with light.”

On its part, the NBA Section on Business Law which the former NBA President once led as its Chairman, wrote: “The NBA Section on Business Law stands in solidarity with its former Chairman and past President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mr. Olumide Akpata, as he honours the life and legacy of his beloved father, Dr. Henry Omorogieva Akpata. Dr. Akpata’s life was marked by unwavering dedication, selfless service to humanity and profound impact on those around him.”

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