Ohanaeze Ndigbo Mourns Distinguished Professor Damian Opata

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Distinguished Professor Damian Ugwutikiri Opata, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Professorial Chair Endowment Programme.

The organisation announced its bereavement in a statement made available to journalists by its Global Publicity Secretary, Dr. Ezechi Chukwu.

President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta Mbata, expressed deep sadness over the loss, paying tribute to Professor Opata’s dedication and contributions to the organisation.

Mbata had previously commended Opata’s leadership of the Endowment Programme’s selection process, describing it as transparent and merit-driven. His work in that capacity reflected his commitment to academic excellence and the advancement of scholarship.

Professor Opata was a distinguished scholar of English and Literary Studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Over several decades, he contributed to teaching, research and university administration, earning recognition for his scholarship on African literature, Igbo worldview, traditional values and culture.

He leaves behind a body of academic publications that contributed to the study and understanding of African literature and Igbo cultural heritage.

According to his family, Opata was scheduled to be buried on Saturday, October 17, 2026, in his hometown of Lejja, in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide extended its condolences to his family, the academic community and the Igbo nation, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.