Nsukka Bids Farewell to Professor Damian Opata, Celebrated Scholar & Literary Critic

THE academic and literary communities have paid tribute to Professor Damian Opata, who was buried in Umuodueze Lejja, Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, following his death at the age of 76.

Opata, a retired professor of English and Literary Studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, died on 16 October after a brief illness. His family carried out his burial in line with his wish not to have his remains deposited in a mortuary.

Traditionalists performed burial rites at Umuodueze Public Square Shrine before the interment. Meanwhile, relatives, colleagues and community representatives expressed grief over the loss of a man they said had made lasting contributions to scholarship and public life.

His younger brother, Professor Christian Opata, said the family remained shocked by the sudden death. He explained that the deceased had been ill for approximately two weeks and had directed that his burial should take place the day after his death.

Chibueze Opata, the deceased’s first son, also described the loss as unexpected. However, he assured friends and associates that the family would uphold his father’s values of honesty, kindness, openness and integrity.

Tributes from academic circles reflected the esteem in which the late professor was held. Paulinus Ugwoke, president of the Association of Nsukka Professors, said the association had lost a prominent member and offered condolences to the bereaved family.

In the literary community, Adaobi Nwoye, Enugu State chairperson of the Association of Nigerian Authors, described Opata as an accomplished scholar and literary critic. She also recalled the personal influence he had on her as a mentor and friend.

His contributions extended beyond academia. Emmanuel Ezema, vice-chairman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Nsukka Local Government Area, recalled his service as the organisation’s immediate past chairman.

Likewise, Ogbuja Ogbu said Opata founded the two organisations he represented: Nsukka Ezue and the South Movement for President Tinubu and Governor Peter Mbah for the 2027 general elections.

Although retirement ended his formal university career, Opata remained associated with community, state and national service until his death. His passing has therefore prompted tributes that extend beyond the university to the wider society.

For his family and associates, the task now is to preserve the principles he championed. Their tributes portray a scholar whose influence reached across education, literature and community leadership.