By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter and Onyekachukwu
The Udu community in Delta State has been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of a prominent lawyer, Mr. Paul O. Onota Esq., who was killed by an over-speeding vehicle on Friday evening.
The incident occurred at about 3:58pm near the Udu Local Government Council Secretariat while the lawyer was attempting to cross the road. Eyewitnesses said the impact of the collision was so severe that it shattered his body on the spot.
Mr. Onota, a highly regarded member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Udu Branch, was described as calm, dedicated, and professional by his colleagues.
Reacting to the sad development, the Publicity Secretary of the NBA Udu Branch, Barrister Okakuro Akpokona Omafuaire, expressed shock and heartbreak at the loss.
“It’s shocking and saddening. This is not the kind of news we ever thought we would be receiving. Paul was a gentleman in every sense. He went to court and came back just yesterday. Now, this? It’s a bitter pill to swallow,” Omafuaire said.
He called on the authorities to ensure that the driver responsible is brought to justice, describing the incident as a preventable tragedy.
“That driver should be held accountable. This is not just an accident—it’s a life taken due to recklessness,” he added.
As of the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, for official confirmation and comments were unsuccessful. Calls and text messages were yet to be returned.
The tragic death of Barrister Onota has reignited public outcry over the rising number of fatal road accidents linked to speeding and reckless driving across Nigeria. Many residents of Udu are now calling for better traffic enforcement and speed controls, especially around government facilities and public crossings.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Bar Association, Udu Branch, is expected to hold an emergency meeting and pay tribute to their fallen colleague in the coming days.